For generations, Paris has stood as a symbol of liberty. The French Revolution inspired oppressed peoples across the world. The words Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité became a beacon for those struggling against tyranny and injustice. That proud legacy suffered a grievous blow this weekend when French authorities blocked a peaceful gathering of more than 100,000 Iranians who had traveled from across Europe to raise their voices against one of the world's most brutal dictatorships. What occurred in Paris was a stain upon the reputation of France and a shocking assault on democratic freedoms.

For months, preparations had been underway for the annual gathering of Iranian supporters of democracy and human rights. Organizers worked closely with the authorities. Travel arrangements were made. Hotels were booked. Families journeyed from every corner of Europe. Thousands invested considerable time and expense to participate in a peaceful demonstration against the clerical regime in Tehran and its escalating campaign of executions, torture, and repression. Then, at the eleventh hour, everything changed.

Following reports of a conversation between French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, permission for the rally suddenly disappeared. Whether coincidence or consequence, the result was unmistakable. A democratic gathering became the target of a massive police operation. Instead of welcoming peaceful demonstrators exercising their fundamental rights, French riot police descended upon them in overwhelming numbers. More than 700 buses carrying participants were halted and held for hours. Men, women, and elderly passengers found themselves trapped in temperatures reaching 36 degrees Celsius. Many lacked access to water, toilets, or shelter. Some suffered medical emergencies.

Others who attempted to assemble........

© Townhall