People take part in a rally in Montreal on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, to show support for the Iranian people as protests in Iran approached their second week. CTV
Canada saw large public demonstrations on Saturday as people gathered in several cities to show support for an ongoing uprising in Iran. The protests marked the end of the second week of unrest in Iran and reflected growing concern among Canadians with ties to the country.
Hundreds of demonstrators filled public spaces in Montreal and Ottawa, while other rallies took place across the country and around the world. Protesters called for the end of Iran’s current Islamic regime and voiced support for Reza Pahlavi, who lives in exile in the United States.
Voices From the Crowd
Many protesters said they felt a deep responsibility to speak out for people in Iran who cannot safely do so. At the Montreal rally, Katayoon Haghzadeh addressed the crowd.
“We are here to be the voice of the Iranian people, who are currently in the streets of Iran and are being tortured and killed by the Iranian regime while they demand regime change to bring back King Reza Pahlavi,” she said.
Pahlavi had earlier urged Iranians to continue protests through the weekend. He also asked supporters to carry Iran’s former lion-and-sun flag, which appeared frequently during Saturday’s demonstrations.
Growing Crisis Inside Iran
Protests in Iran began on Dec. 28, sparked by economic hardship. Since then, the demonstrations have grown into one of the most serious challenges to the country’s leadership in years. Authorities cut internet and phone services late last week, sharply reducing the flow of information.
Human rights groups report at least 72 deaths and more than 2,300 arrests so far. The lack of reliable updates has caused distress among Iranians living abroad.
Fear and Heartbreak in the Diaspora
In Montreal, Kiarash Seyedi held photos of three protesters who were killed early in the unrest, before communication networks shut down.
“My people are being killed in my home country in silence and darkness where the government shut down the internet and phone lines, so this is the very least thing that I can do for my people to get their freedom,” Seyedi said.
Another protester, Nesha, asked that her last name not be used to protect relatives still in Iran.
“I’m really worried about my family, who are all in Iran. I’m alone here,” she said. “We’re under a lot of stress and heartbreak, but they continue to fight against this very cruel regime.”
International Reaction Grows
Donald Trump has publicly supported Iranian protesters and warned of possible action if the violence continues. Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has signalled a tougher response. Iran’s attorney general warned Saturday that anyone involved in protests could face the death penalty.
Marchers in Montreal welcomed international backing but urged Canada to take a stronger role.
“It is thanks to this (U.S.) support that the regime has not succeeded in carrying out a massacre,” said Kiasa Nazeran. “We want to tell all Canadian citizens and their politicians that the regime is killing Iranian men and women in our country, but they will not stop the fight. The revolution continues, and we need your support -- steadfast support.”
Canada Speaks Out
Mark Carney joined other international leaders in condemning violence against Iranian protesters. He called on Iranian authorities to respect freedom of expression and allow peaceful protests without fear.
