More than 1,500 demonstrators took to the streets of Brussels on Sunday afternoon to express solidarity with the Iranian people, following months of deadly repression inside Iran.

The march, organised by members of the Iranian diaspora in Belgium and across Europe, began in the city centre and brought together activists, community leaders and Belgian politicians. Police estimated the crowd at around 1,600 people.

Speakers addressed supporters at Place de Brouckère before the procession moved along the Petite Ceinture, passing Botanique and continuing toward Place de l’Albertine. Participants carried banners condemning violence against civilians and calling for political change in Iran.

Among those present were MR party leader Georges-Louis Bouchez, along with MPs Darya Safai and Lydia Mutyebele, signalling cross-party political support for the cause.

While the demonstration had been planned in advance, it took place against the backdrop of rapidly evolving events in the Middle East. Several attendees waved Israeli and American flags, reflecting reactions to recent military developments involving Iran. Organisers said the rally was meant to highlight solidarity with ordinary Iranians rather than endorse any single government.

“I’m incredibly happy to see so many people here, united,” said Parnian Robatsarpooshi, one of the demonstrators. She added that many in the crowd felt a renewed sense of hope following reports about major developments affecting Iran’s leadership, though speakers stressed that lasting change would depend on the will of the Iranian people themselves.

For many Belgian-Iranians, the march was both a show of grief and defiance — and a reminder that events inside Iran continue to resonate far beyond its borders. Photo by Pymouss, Wikimedia commons.