Azerbaijan, Baku, 15 February/ corr. Trend E.Ostapenko/
EU High Representative Catherine Ashton has called the Iranian authorities to protect the rights of their citizens and to refrain from the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.
"The High Representative calls on the Iranian authorities to fully respect and protect the rights of their citizens, including freedom of expression and the right to assemble peacefully. These are fundamental rights which need to be fully respected," said her spokesperson. "She calls on the Iranian authorities to refrain from the use of force against peaceful demonstrators".
The High Representative is closely following the events taking place in Iran, notably the apparent restrictions placed on the freedom of movement of certain members of the opposition and the protests taking place on the streets, EU statement said.
Mass rallies to support Egyptian and Tunisian people began in Tehran on Monday. Protests were also reportedly held in other cities across Iran, including Esfahan, Shiraz and Kermanshah. The police tried to disperse the protestersusing tear gas, opposition website Kaleme.com reported.
Access to mobile communications has been closed in many Iranian cities, particularly in Tehran.
Police arrested dozens of demonstrators. Ex-Iranian President Mohammad Khatami, as well as former Interior Minister Abdullah Nuri, has been put under house arrest.