Pro Islamic Regime Supporters Clash with Freedom-Loving Iranians in Montreal

On one side, pro-regime activists waving Palestinian and Islamic Republic flags, joined by two controversial Quebec MPs and a Quebec Solidaire banner.

This past weekend two opposing groups clashed. One group: real Iranians demanding freedom, marching for the victims of the Iranian regime and celebrating Nowruz, the Persian New Year.

Rebel News videographer Guillaume Roy observed the stark contrast. Pro-regime groups denounce U.S. and Israeli strikes, while anti-regime protesters call for action against the Mullahs’ brutal dictatorship, which has persecuted civilians for decades.

“We can speak freely here. We have police and government support.’’

The Persian diaspora march, by contrast, was a vibrant, positive demonstration in support of Iranian freedom. This marked the 11th major march in Montreal since early 2026, commemorating the over 30,000 civilians killed during demonstrations in Iran last January. The event coincided with the Persian New Year, Nowruz, celebrated with Haft-Seen tables symbolizing health, prosperity, and hope.

The day also highlighted the impact of internet blackouts in Iran, which prevent families from communicating and organizing safely. Participants expressed deep concern for relatives in Iran, noting that diaspora celebrations of Nowruz were subdued due to the ongoing unrest.

“Iranians love to dance and sing. But this year, we couldn’t celebrate. My father is in Iran, and I haven’t heard from him in days. It’s a constant worry,” said another marcher.

The pro-regime protest featured a union and Islamist-leftist crowd waving Islamic Republic of Iran flags and Palestinian flags. Among the participants were two controversial Quebec MPs: Alexandre Boulerice, an NDP MP now flirting with Quebec Solidaire, and Haroun Bouazzi, known for inflammatory remarks about systemic racism. A Quebec Solidaire flag was also visible, despite the party having publicly distanced itself from these activities.

In sum, the weekend illustrated the deep divisions within Montreal’s Iranian community: pro-regime leftists and Islamists on one side, and freedom-loving Iranians advocating for human rights on the other. Rebel News continues to cover these events, highlighting the perspectives of those risking everything for freedom back home.

For those wishing to support Iranian freedom and the diaspora, visit CanadiansForFreeIran.com and consider signing the petition.

Please sign the petition to show that Canadians stand with the Iranian people!

8,018 signatures
Goal: 10,000 signatures

The Iranian people are fighting a tyrannical Islamic regime that arrests women, crushes dissent, and kills protestors demanding freedom. Canada’s leaders need to stop tiptoeing around the dictators in Tehran and stand with those risking their lives for democracy and human rights. Add your name — tell Canada to stand with the Iranian people and against the regime oppressing them.

Will you sign?

Guillaume Roy

Video Journalist

Born in Saguenay, a region north of Quebec, he now lives in Montreal. Guillaume began as an independent journalist during the COVID era and joined Rebel News in 2021 as a videographer. Most of the time, he works alongside Alexa Lavoie. Occasionally, you may see him on solo assignments in certain situations. His specialty is making you experience events as if you were there, through the footage captured by his camera.

https://x.com/guillaum3roy

COMMENTS

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  • Fran G
    commented 2026-03-28 11:59:49 -0400
    Thanks for all the great information in this video
  • Bruce Atchison
    commented 2026-03-26 20:47:55 -0400
    Fanatics never give up. Pro-regime forces will fight like the Japanese did in World War II. Trump will have to bomb Iran back to the stone age and even then, the regime fanatics will resist.