France Cancels Major Iranian Opposition Rally Over Violence Fears

French authorities canceled a large Iranian opposition rally scheduled for June 20 in Paris due to fears of violent attacks. The decision came after intelligence warnings about threats from rival monarchist activists supporting Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Shah of Iran. Paris police announced the cancellation just hours before the event, citing a highly tense national and international situation and real concerns about potential violence.

The rally was organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), the political wing of the Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), which has held similar demonstrations in Europe without incident. However, recent intelligence reports revealed an escalating power struggle between MEK and monarchist factions vying to be recognized as the sole legitimate Iranian opposition. The monarchist camp reportedly includes individuals who have made threatening statements and were seen armed, including videos showing a prominent activist holding a gun and 3D-printed firearms.

Additionally, intelligence indicated threats from people using symbols linked to SAVAK, the Shah's former security service, including warnings of possible bombings if the rally proceeded. The Iranian regime is also suspected of orchestrating threats through local proxies to disrupt opposition activities abroad. Tehran has long outlawed the NCRI within Iran and regularly condemns its activities internationally.

The intelligence assessment noted that the rally was expected to attract a broad coalition beyond MEK’s traditional base, including Kurdish, Arab, Baloch groups, tribal members, and communist and socialist organizations. The cancellation highlights deep divisions within the Iranian exile opposition and the complex security challenges they face in Europe.

Summary: France canceled a large Iranian opposition rally in Paris on June 20 due to credible threats of violence from rival monarchist factions and possible Iranian regime proxies, exposing deep divisions within the exiled opposition.

Points: - France canceled a major Iranian opposition rally in Paris over fears of violent attacks. - Threats came mainly from monarchist supporters of Reza Pahlavi, rivaling the MEK. - Videos showed monarchist activists armed, including with 3D-printed guns. - Intelligence warned of possible bombings linked to former Shah’s security symbols. - Iranian regime suspected of orchestrating threats through local proxies. - Rally was expected to draw diverse opposition groups beyond MEK supporters.

Topic: security

Entities: {"people":["Reza Pahlavi"],"organizations":["Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization","National Council of Resistance of Iran","SAVAK"],"places":["France","Paris","Iran"]}