Iranian Americans rally outside U.S. Capitol to honor pro-democracy protesters killed in Iran

WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - Iranian Americans gathered outside the U.S. Capitol on Friday to honor pro-democracy protesters killed in Iran.

More than 3,000 protesters have been killed since demonstrations broke out in late December, according to the Iranian government.

Organizers said Friday marked 40 days since a government crackdown led to the deaths of hundreds of protesters on Jan. 8 and 9. Demonstrators said they stand in solidarity with protesters in Iran, calling for a free, democratic, secular, non-nuclear Iran.

Ramesh Sepehrrad of the Organization of Iranian American Communities spoke at the rally.

“Iranian people do not want foreign war. Iranian people do not want continued negotiation and appeasement with this regime. What the people of Iran want is support for their call to overthrow the regime. Recognize their right to overthrow this regime.” Sepehrrad said.

Despite reports of American and Israeli officials discussing potential military action in Iran, Sepehrrad said she does not support U.S. military intervention, saying it would not lead to a free, democratic Iran.