The European Parliament resolution passed April 3 triggered fury among Iranian authorities by touching on sensitive subjects such as human rights. The resolution urged the European Union to exploit the current window of opportunity afforded by the nuclear talks, but criticized the Islamic Republic for “human rights violations.” It condemned restrictions on almost every social activity in Iran, including “freedom of information, freedom of association, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of religion, academic freedom, freedom of education and freedom of movement.”
Though Iranian human rights activists are likely to welcome the move, authorities in Tehran were quick to react strongly to the vote. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Marzieh Afkham condemned the resolution as “unfounded and unacceptable.” But more serious criticism came from the conservative camp.
