Western elites persist in seeking affirmation that the Iranian economy is collapsing under the weight of sanctions and that Iranians are ready to turn against the Islamic Republic if only the United States would get out the right PR message see here and here. However, real insight into the sources of the Islamic Republic’s endurance and the views of its highest decision-maker can be accessed more reliably simply by reading and taking seriously a recent address by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei to a group of government officials, see here. The speech provides what we believe are important insights into Ayatollah Khamenei’s thinking about the Islamic Republic’s domestic and international condition. It also reveals a man determined to continue leading his people in resistance to Western pressure and hostility.
After opening remarks on the significance of the holy month of Ramadan for believing Muslims and what that should mean for the government officials in his audience, Ayatollah Khamenei posits that “there is no contradiction between realism and idealism,” he holds that “if government officials pursue ideals in a logical and dignified way and the people cooperate with them, then the realities of our society will be in harmony with the ideals. This is an essential pillar for our national movement.”
Khamenei then turns to “some of the realities that exist in our society,” one of which “is the existence of sanctions and threats, and the Islamic Republic is reminded of this reality more than in previous years.” In his words, the Islamic Republic
“is faced with a showdown with a few arrogant powers and governments…They have a number of followers who are also opposed to us, but their existence is not independent and they do not have any power. If superpowers like America stopped supporting them, they would be nothing. They would not even be considered in global and international equations. However, they are currently following America, the Zionist regime and the global Zionist network. This is a reality. It is in front of our eyes. This reality has developed since the beginning of the Revolution. Its intensity has not decreased, rather it has increased…We acknowledge the pressures and sanctions, and these pressures and sanctions are backed up with their economic capabilities, political capabilities, security capabilities and other such capabilities, particularly their media capabilities” (which, according to Khamenei, are “powerful in propaganda and media campaigns and in terms of the power to distort whatever they want to distort”).
Another reality that Khamenei identifies is Western claims that
“this showdown is because of such issues as the nuclear issue and the issue of human rights, and this is a lie…Today there is nobody in the world who believes that America is after human rights and the rights of nations or that the Zionist regimes—which commits genocide and murders children—is after establishing democracy in other countries…Similarly, their claim that they are opposed to the Islamic Republic because of nuclear weapons is also a lie. In the beginning, we announced it as a guess, but later on it became clear during international negotiations and interactions that they know the Islamic Republic is not after nuclear weapons…The claim that these pressures, these sanctions, these sieges, these enmities and these hostilities are due to the issue of nuclear weapons and technology is a lie. The fact that this claim is false is also a reality.
“The truth is that their opposition is because of the essence of the Revolution and the existence of the Islamic Republic. They were ruling the region without any worries. They had full control over a country like Iran, with its rich resources and numerous facilities. They used to do whatever they wanted. They used to make whatever decisions they wanted. They used to make the best of the facilities of our country in order to advance their own goals. But now they have been deprived of all these things. This is not the only reason. Our movement has motivated the world of Islamic and today we can see the signs in North Africa, in the Middle East and in all countries. This is what they are angry about. The Islamic Republic is the focus. They want to harm the Islamic Republic and make it a lesson for others. This is their real motive. And this is another reality.”
Of course, as Khamenei notes, “the challenges the Islamic Republic is currently facing are not new. This is not an analysis; it is a fact. Everybody can see this. There was a day when our ships and oil tankers used to be targeted in the Persian Gulf. There was a day when they used to bombard the oil terminal in Kharg Island. There was a day when the enemy used to drop bombs on all our industrial centers. These are the things that we have witnessed with our own eyes…The war with Saddam Husayn was not just a war that had been waged on us by one government. It was an international war against us. Therefore, the challenges that exist—the threat they make, the claims they make, the things they mention and magnify—are not new to the Islamic Republic.”
Against these challenges, Khamenei points out a number of “encouraging” realities: “The Islamic Republic has cleared all these hardships and difficult turns. Have we not? Did we stop moving forward? Did they manage to harm the Islamic Republic? Did they manage to undermine the ideals and principles of the Islamic Republic? Did they manage to undermine the ideals and principles of the Islamic Republic? They did not…We managed to make progress even under threat. Over these years, we have made progress in all areas. We have made progress in sophisticated scientific areas. We have made advances in the technologies that our country needed. We have made outstanding advances in the area of medicine, transportation, housing, water supply, and constructing roads…In spite of all these pressures, the country has made constant progress over the years.”
Likewise, “the country has become far more powerful in confronting challenges and threats,” while “the opposing camp has grown weaker over these years. If we think of America and the Zionist regime as the two main representatives of the opposing camp and consider Western countries as their followers, it is obvious that they have grown weaker. Today the Zionist regime is far weaker than twenty or thirty years ago. The events that took place in North Africa and Egypt substantially weakened the Zionist regime. The Zionist regime suffers from domestic problems and it also suffers from endless problems outside its borders. And today’s America is not the America of the time of Reagan. They have declined a lot. You know what happened to them in Iraq, and their condition has been growing worse on a daily basis in Afghanistan. They have failed in their Middle Eastern policies. They were defeated in the 33-day war, which was waged by their agents, the Zionist regime. In the 22-day war on Gaza, their Zionist agents did not manage to do anything against a million-something defenseless people.”
Furthermore, “the regimes which are opposed to the Islamic Republic are in crisis. The few arrogant Western governments and their allies are in crisis. With the economic crisis that exists in Europe, the European Union is in serious danger. The Eurozone is in serious danger. In a way, the same is true of America: a large budget deficit, massive debt, pressure from the people and the anti-Wall Street movement or what they call ‘the 99 percent movement.’ These are important events…The economic problems and the economic crisis in Europe are different from the economic problems that we may encounter. Our problems are like the problems of a group of climbers who are moving forward on a particular path. It is a difficult path and of course there are problems. Sometimes they need water. Other times they need food. Sometimes they have to deal with certain problems. Other times they encounter obstacles. But the important point is that they are climbing up the mountain…The situation of Europeans is like the situation of a bus that is trapped under an avalanche.”
Another positive reality “is the events that have taken place in North Africa and in our region. In certain places, these events have resulted in regime change; in certain other places, these events have not resulted in regime change, but there is a possibility that they will.” At the same time, there is “the increased power of the Islamic Republic.”
But, in keeping with his exhortation that government officials pursue the Revolution’s goals “in a logical and dignified way,” Ayatollah Khamenei does not look away from what he sees as mistakes in Iranian policy. With regard to foreign affairs, one notable mistake, in Khamenei’s judgment “is that whenever we showed flexibility toward the enemy and used certain justifications to retreat, the enemy adopted bolder positions against us.” Referring to Iran’s post-9/11 cooperation with the United States, he notes that “the day the statements of our government officials were contaminated with flattery for the West and Western culture, they labeled us ‘axis of evil’…This is how they are.”
Similarly, “regarding the nuclear issue, at a time when we cooperated with them and backed down—this really happened although we learnt a lesson from it—they advanced so much that I said in this hussayniyyah that if they continued like that, I would have to step in personally, And that is what I did. I had to step in. These things are not my responsibility. Our retreats emboldened them. There was a day when our government officials would be satisfied if they allowed us to have twenty-five centrifuges in the country, but they said it was not possible. Then our government officials became satisfied with having five centrifuges, but they still said it was not possible. Then our government officials became satisfied with three centrifuges, but again they said it was not possible…Today, we have eleven thousand centrifuges in the country. If we had continued those retreats, if we had continued that flexibility, we would have achieved none of these nuclear advances.”
Elaborating on this theme, Ayatollah Khamenei argues that “if the country judiciously resists these pressures by the enemy—particularly the sanctions and other such things—not only will their technique prove ineffective, but also it will be impossible for them to repeat such things in the future…These things will only continue for a while. One of the signs is that they were forced to exempt twenty countries from the oil embargo and similar sanctions…Therefore, it is necessary to resist. These are tangible realities. None of the things that I said are abstract analyses. They are things that we can witness.”
Khamenei also tells his audience that “it is necessary to take risks while relying on Allah the Exalted and on competent management. Everybody should be prepared to take risks.” Invoking the historic battles of Badr and Khaybar—critical reference points for Muslims, when early followers of the Prophet Muhammad prevailed over more numerous and better-resourced adversaries—he says that, while “there are challenges…there are also sufficient capacities and potentialities to deal with these challenges…If we manage to bring our capacities into the arena, if we manage to decrease the number of our weaknesses, we will make progress.”
To this end, Ayatollah Khamenei enjoins his audience to “work hard on this issue and try to find a solution, the way a mathematician works on a mathematical problem…Imagine that you are a talented mathematician and that this issue is a mathematical problem. This is the way you should confront different issues.” In this spirit, Khamenei recounts his idea of the “economy of resistance”:
“The enemy’s goal [is] to focus on our economy, work against our national growth, undermine efforts to create employment opportunities, disrupt and jeopardize our national welfare, create problems for the people, make the people disappointed and isolate them from the Islamic Republic.”
To counter this, Khamenei advances the “economy of resistance,” which, of course, has “certain requirements”:
“Putting the people in charge of the economy is among the requirements of an economy of resistance…Certain things have already been done, but it is necessary to make more efforts. It is necessary to strengthen the private sector. The private sector should be encouraged to engage in economic activities and our banking system, governmental organizations and the organs that can help—such as the Majles and the judiciary—should help the people step into the arena of economy.
“Minimizing our dependence on oil is another requirement for an economy of resistance. This dependence is an evil legacy from a hundred years ago. If we manage to make use of all the opportunities that exist today and try to replace oil with other lucrative economic activities, we will have made the most important move regarding our economy. Today, knowledge-based industries are among the things that can fill this gap to a large extent.
“The issue of managing consumption—that is to say, moderate consumption and avoidance of extravagance—is one of the pillars of an economy of resistance. Our governmental and private organizations as well as our people and families should pay attention to this issue. This is indeed an instance of jihad. Today moderate consumption and avoidance of extravagance is undoubtedly a jihad-like move against the enemy. One can claim that this will receive the same reward as jihad in the way of God.
“Another aspect of the issue of moderate consumption and managing consumption is that we should use our domestically produced products. All governmental organizations should pay attention to this point [and] should try their best to avoid consuming foreign products. And our people should also prefer domestically produced products to famous foreign brands. Some people go after different foreign brands only to show off. The people themselves should prevent consumption of foreign products.
“I believe that plans which are centered around an economy of resistance are workable…If we had not implemented the gasoline rationing plan, today our gasoline consumption would have exceeded a hundred million liters a day. They managed to control this. Today our gasoline consumption is at a very good level…They were planning to impose sanctions on gasoline. Economy of resistance made their gasoline sanctions ineffective. The same is true of all the other things needed in the country. The targeted subsidy plan is also a measure to shape our national economy. These things can boost production and employment, and it can also bring about welfare. These are factors that can boost our national production and economic growth. They can also bring about honor for the country.”
Additionally, Ayatollah Khamenei highlights the importance of safeguarding the Iranian people’s “unity and solidarity.” In this regard, “the occasional disagreements among our government officials—which are aired without any good reason—harm national unity. Some people become supporters of this and some others become supporters of that. They start opposing and blaming each other…This is among the harmful things. And our honorable friends, the esteemed government officials of the country, should know that blaming this and that person for our problems will not bring about any honor and prestige for them among the people. There are certain problems and it is necessary to solve them. And we have the capability to solve them; we are not incapable of solving our problems. As I said, these are the realities in the country which are revealing themselves to us.”
Western pundits have been predicting the Islamic Republic’s impending collapse virtually since its founding in 1979; they have consistently underestimated Ayatollah Khamenei since he succeeded Imam Khomeini as the Islamic Republic’s Supreme Leader in 1989. His approach to leadership is certainly strategic; it also reflects a deep-seated understanding that one cannot truly serve the ideals of Iran’s Islamic Revolution without the most rigorous possible analysis of policy challenges and options. Considering how badly U.S. policy in the Middle East is faring, political elites in Washington would be well-advised to reflect “in a logical and dignified way” about America’s real interests in the region and how best to pursue them.
–Flynt Leverett and Hillary Mann Leverett
For those of you who asked when Iran last put their 20% enriched U235 into the medical reactor, here is an article from Bloomberg which says Iran claims they have been using home-enriched fuel since February. I would imagine the IAEA could confirm this.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-07-22/iran-sends-more-nuclear-fuel-to-research-reactor-abbasi-says.html
Empty, to be clear, the first paragraph “Empty, I agree with you: the American system does not encourage independence of thought as much as ignorance of long-term consequence; that much should be obvious.” was of course meant for you.
James Canning says: August 10, 2012 at 3:32 pm
“But the fact remains”
James,
You are now preaching to the choir. I said I believe. Didn’t I?
1 Persian,
I agree that US stupidity in effect forced Iran to enrich to 20%, to build the fuel rods/plates for the TRR. But I do not know if Iran in fact has replaced the old fuel plates supplied by Argentina 20 years ago. I do know that the rods/plates have been tested.
I also think that Iran’s IAEA application to buy the fuel plates for the TRR was blocked by the Israel lobby in hopes, apparently, of provoking Iran into enriching to 20%. To clear the way for more sanctions and make it more difficult for Obama to improve relations with Iran (which was his object when he entered the White House in 2009).
Ah, Empty….. no it wasn’t meant for you. Not at all.
It was specifically a comment regarding the following post:
Iran’s right has been violated by fascists says:
August 9, 2012 at 8:03 pm
James:Is Iran still using the nuclear fuel supplied by Argentina decades ago, to operate the TRR?
The answere is YES and NO. Iran was using Argentine nuclear fuel for its TRR at 10% capacity in 2009, that’s why they approached IAEA to find source(s) to replace its depleted fuel. Of course you & I and everbody else knows what happened.
Iran had no intention of enriching to 20% and, had it not been for Word powers to deny and deprive her of fuel replcement for its reactor to treat approx. 850000 cancer patients. One would think US and its cohorts, on humanitarian and compassion, would be more than willing to provide Iranians with needed medical isotope to strike a PR coupe.
Now, despite all challenges to fabricate fuel plates for TRR, Iran succeeded and the first batch was placed in the Tehran TRR.
kooshy,
You are aware of course that I opposed the sanctions against Iran’s exports of oil, gas, etc. As did the Financial Times.
Sakineh,
I have said time and time again that enemies of Iran want Iran hurt in whatever way can be arranged. Many times. But the fact remains: Iran’s announcement in early June 2011 of intent to treble production of 20% U triggered the sanctions against Iran’s energy exports, etc. Yes, enemies of Iran, Israel lobby etc etc etc would have wanted these sanctions even if Iran had not announced its intention to treble 20% U production.
Iran to some degree has dug itself into a hole. This is the conclusion of the International Crisis Group in the study FYI linked.
James:How much revenue is Iran giving up, in effect, by continuing to stockpile 20% uranium, etc.? $3 billion per month? Is Iranian oil production lower by at least 1 million barrels per day, than otherwise would obtain?
James, please stop harping on this 20% nonesense. This is the price Iran will have to pay for its independence. Furthermore, if 20% enrichment was such a big deal, then why US and its enablers in Europe did not accept the Tehran Declaration ?
James Canning says:
August 10, 2012 at 1:46 pm
Mere quibble.
US, EU, Russia, China, India had their chance in 2009 (as you wish) to settle the Iranian nuclear file.
They chose not to do so for a variety of reasons.
We are witnessing in Syria one of the consequences of that decision – more to follow as a brutal and bitter struggles will be waged by those whose physical existence is threatened by US-EU policies to protect themselves.
Things can get ugly.
Mr. Khamenei has not yet issued a Jihad Fatwa against Israel, against Wahabis, against this or that enemy of Iran and her allies.
He could.
Once he does so, everything until now will look like a picnic.
James Canning says:
August 10, 2012 at 2:24 pm
All wars have costs.
Perhaps UK should have sought a cease-fire with Germany in 1940?
It is likely that Germany would have left a bit more of the British Empire for the English than US after the liquidation of the British Empire in 1946.
And perhaps Russia should have agreed to become the supplier of agricultural goods and blonde servants to the Master Race as well?
It would have prevented so much loss of life, property, and financial assets.
My contentions stands – there is no other way for Iran if she and her inhabitants wish to be anything but servants to the Axis Powers.
The war will go on….
fyi,
How much revenue is Iran giving up, in effect, by continuing to stockpile 20% uranium, etc.? $3 billion per month? Is Iranian oil production lower by at least 1 million barrels per day, than otherwise would obtain?
Here is one from our own Gav’s favorite British propaganda outlet
West Africa’s oil in demand, but no substitute for Iran
August 10, 2012 1:43 pm by Kimberly S. Johnson
http://blogs.ft.com/beyond-brics/2012/08/10/west-africas-oil-in-demand-but-no-substitute-for-iran/#axzz23AP7UPQE
“The Iran angle is more of a Western media insert into this equation as part of the ongoing attempt to hit home the point that sanctions against Iran are working”, says Michael Bagley, president of Jellyfish, a US-based intelligence and security firm. He says the stats have more to do with China looking to shore up ties in the region before the west does.”
James,
First everybody here, and now the ayatoller. Oh how I hate to be called a liar by the ayatollah.
” The claim that these pressures, these sanctions, these sieges, these enmities and these hostilities are due to the issue of nuclear weapons and technology is a lie”
This Goebbelsian lie has been perpetuated so much here that I’m now a firm believer that it is fact.
fyi,
George W. Bush did not leave the White House until 2009.
fyi,
Russia and China are not “confronting” the US-EU “axis”. Russia and China have rejected any UNSC resolution authorizing outside military intervention in Syria.
Rd.,
I think you are aware I fear civil war in Syria.
1 Persain,
Is Iran still using the nuclear fuel supplied by Argentina decades ago, to operate the TRR?
1 Persain,
I regard Argentina as part of “the West”.
1 Persian,
There would be ZERO chance of UNSC sanctions against Iran becauee it possesses missiles.
Tell me what benefit Iran gains from stockpiling 20% U?
{The Rus in Russia do not consider Jews to be Russian (Rus).}
what this means?
My point is that Israel and Russia have good relations and Russia always deliver
for Israel against Mulsim including Iran and Arabs. Iran knows this fact but has no
choice at the moment. That’s why Russia always delivers for the west, and go along with their vicious plan.
The stupid ‘progressives’ in the west present Russia and China as ‘victims’ that is false. These countries are after their interests and are willing to kill muslims for it as they have done in the past.
No one should trust either Russia or China even for a second.
fyi,
South Koreans enjoy an economy 40 times larger than North Korea’s. But you think the people of NK love living in poverty? Because they are not “servants”?
Iran’s right….
Why do you think Iran should reject the wishes of Russia and China, that Iran stop enriching to 20 percent? Russia and China are trying to help Iran.
fyi,
The Cinton administration wanted to resore normal relations with Iran, but this was blocked by the Israel lobby.. Maybe better PR would have enabled Clinton to succeed?
One thing RHS has right is his appreciation of the continuous pressure inside the US for foreign domination and war, linked not only into an ideology, but into an economy. It’s only when the weight of that is felt can one see the political rationalizations of the moment for what they are… excuses on the surface, not the current underneath.
Lets take a brief look at the foreign policy gurus Romney would bring into the White House, the State Department and the Pentagon.
http://turcopolier.typepad.com/sic_semper_tyrannis/2012/08/romney-admin.html
Castellio,
RE: As to “Iran’s right…” calling Russia and China petty countries nullifies any critical credance you may be trying to create. Neither is a pety country. Both are sovereign and serious. Both have met extreme challenges over a prolonged period of time and will do so again. Don’t let Iranian pride blind you to historical facts: it weakens you and your country.
Perhaps this comment was meant for another poster here? I did not make any statement about Russia and China.
- and claiming the annihilation threat myth by Iran.
For those who follow israeli news sites the war drum is being used, heavily.
*We have new NIE report that as always tell us what Iran might do.
* We have french government making up plans to evacuate french people from Israel in case of war.
*Ehud barak is interviewed where more warmongering claims is being put fourth.
*We have Ban Ki Moon that have been invited to the NAM meeting in Iran, is urged by netanyahu to reject any contact with Iran and claiming the
*We have a fomer Labour minister urging the israeli leadership to speak about their imment, war planing and what it could result it (see silverstein’s site).
Perhaps the most interesting completion in this Olympics will be coming up in next hour
IRAN vs US in 74 Kg freestyle wrestling gold medal completion
http://www.london2012.com/wrestling/event/men-freestyle-74kg/index.html?v=20120810-180813410
At the end one side must listen to other side’s anthem
For those thinking of the relation of India to Israel the following article is informative:
http://www.counterpunch.org/2012/08/10/breaking-free-of-the-us-israeli-shadow/
1 persian buckaroo says:
August 10, 2012 at 10:39 am
Yes, the Americans first laid a consumption/debt trap for Mr. Rafsanjani and then they closed it.
Their aim was to force the Iranian government into insolvency.
Mr. Rafsanjani was another one of those gullible & delusional Iranian leaders that thought normal state-to-state intercourse with US is possible.
The events of the last 20 years have indicated, in my opinion, that Mr. Khamenei’s assessment has been the correct one.
kooshy says:
August 10, 2012 at 10:50 am
In South Korea, black-outs and brown-outs have become common over the last few months.
And people living and working in high-rise buildings are suffering because they are a “servant” people to US.
Likewise in Japan.
As I stated before, Reliant wishes to build a very large gas-powered plant in Nrothern India but needs a guaranteed supply of natural gas before construction starts.
But since Indian leaders decided to become the junior partners to US, the Indian people will continue to suffer black-outs and brown-outs for the decades longer.
When wars are ignited, every one suffers.
It really sounds like the sanctions are having a biting effect but rather on unintended side
Iran Oil Embargo Has Ripple Effect for Europe
http://blogs.wsj.com/source/2012/08/10/iran-oil-embargo-has-ripple-effect-for-europe/
“Let’s say the Iran story has deepened the crude imbalance that is there anyway in a market where there is too much light, sweet stuff and not enough sour barrels,” he said
For all those,especially James, who believe Iran brought upon itself a world of hurt by enriching to 20% should consider this:
Back in 1996, the first US sanction against Iran came in a form of Iran-Libya Act.
In those days not a single centrefuge was spinning in that country. Perhaps, it is, however, reasonable to believe that Iran had every intention to start its dormant nuclear R&D at some near future. But justifications for that sanction and beyond had nothing to do with Iran’s nuclear activities.
The arguments that are presented here, based on Iran’s nuclear file have nothing to do with those activities, but has everything to do with total domminance of energy resources of Mid-East region and US hegemony. To further elaborate my point, as ayatollah Khamenei said a few years ago, to paraphrase him, If we give up our nuclear rights, then they would come back to force us to abandon our missile program. A country like Iran with its immense strategic location, can not feel so vulnerable as was the case of Iraqi invasion of 1980.
James:Last time I checked, the TRR was still using the old fuel supplied by the West years ago
Actually, the last batch of fuel for TRR was provided by Argentina back in 1992, not by “The West”.
rebel says:
August 10, 2012 at 8:43 am
You are not familiar with Iranians, evidently.
Indepedence of Iran is a national consenus – has been so for more than 100 years.
Mr. Khamenei has cast the Arrogant Powers as the enemies of Iranian independence successfully.
And when wars begin – in this case started by Axis Powers – everyone suffers.
But resistance is the only alternative.
May be you want to be a servant – nowkar – most others do not so wish.
James,
Video of your Hague terrorist on the run.
Do you think it was smart for Hague to waste 5 million pounds of your money for these terrorist?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw-1RN3CgO8&feature=player_embedded
check the comments too.
“Run FSA rats run
James Canning says:
August 9, 2012 at 7:38 pm
Rubbish!
P5+1 could have ended the confrontation in 2008 when the “moron in the White House” was no longer there.
They did not.
And they added injury to insult by sanctioning Iran yet again in 2010.
Those were not acts aimed at resolution of this confrontation.
Once the strategic situation changed in 2011 – due to the Collapse of US-EU Financial Economy – Russia and China lost their fear of economic consequences of confronting US-EU Axis.
So they could afford, in 2012, to veto Syrian resolution in 2012 repeatedly because they could and because they did not expect US-EU Axis to respect their core interests in Iran any longer.
Iran’s right has been violated by fascists says:
August 9, 2012 at 8:03 pm
The more than million people in Israel that speak Russian are not considered Russian (Rus).
The Rus in Russia do not consider Jews to be Russian (Rus).
Empty says:
August 9, 2012 at 9:41 pm
There is no contradiction.
States and non-state actors in the international arena are akin to thugs.
There is hierarchy of thuggery and one could be an independent thug or a thug in service of a bigger and more powerful thug.
There is no Law – besides certain regulatory rules that facilitate inter-thug communication and interaction and minimizes unwanted friction.
Lastly, thugs normally do not die although they could go through metamorphosis from time-to-time.
That is the fundamental difference between international arena and human polities.
Fiorangela says:
August 9, 2012 at 7:20 pm
He is the fall guy in all of this.
His policy was the best policy for Turkey and for the region.
But US-EU would have none of it when destroying independent Iranian power became the “la Phanatasme de Jour”
“Hague: Britain to give 5 million pounds (7.7 million dollars) aid to Syrian rebels”
James,
Do you think it is a good idea for Hague to sponsor terrorist?
Don’t you think for UK to go in bed with the salafis exposes UK as a state sponsor of terrorism? Do you agree it is better to spend the millions for Liverpool and employment in UK rather than helping the terrorist? Yes/no?
Do you think it is best to destroy UK in order for Hague to help tegorist.. I mean terrorist?
http://en.trend.az/regions/met/arabicr/2055174.html
Khamenei will establish “independence” if he has to starve every Iranian man, woman, and child to do it. Independence from what exactly is uncertain given that Iran still relies heavily on foreign states for many things including refined petroleum and wheat. He even makes sure that many Iranians stay independent from employers by not having jobs.
humanist says:
August 9, 2012 at 1:46 pm
Ray McGovern envisions diabolic storms of war on the near horizons.
Wars don t happen by accident. They never did
James,
You brought it up, so you are saying Iran is lying? That they are not creaing isotopes? Is that correct?
Empty, I agree with you: the American system does not encourage independence of thought as much as ignorance of long-term consequence; that much should be obvious.
As to “Iran’s right…” calling Russia and China petty countries nullifies any critical credance you may be trying to create. Neither is a pety country. Both are sovereign and serious. Both have met extreme challenges over a prolonged period of time and will do so again. Don’t let Iranian pride blind you to historical facts: it weakens you and your country.
{Hence, it is better to stick to one’s guns and wear your opponent down rather than react immediately to his provocations with often bad consequences.}
I agree with him. Power to great nation of Iran
Anyone who has read Khamenei’s books will realize that he regards “patience/endurance” as the supreme Islamic virtue. Those who act in haste, out of fear or desire, tend not to get the best results. Hence, it is better to stick to one’s guns and wear your opponent down rather than react immediately to his provocations with often bad consequences.
fyi says,
You do not seem to be aware of the need to be able to exercise independent judgement without fear of retaliation – without it the willingness to take initiative will be killed in all levels of society. The Americans have (had) understoold that much.
1. Again, you draw a fallacious conclusion from that which I did not say and based on your own fully-established narrow viewpoint and wrong perception. The good news is that I am not surprised. I have never denied the need to exercise independent judgement. I did, however, need to bring your attention to the role awareness and consciousness about adverse consequences of an action might play in calculating what actions might an individual or a nation or a people might take. For example, getting stomach cramps after a bad meal does not necessarily lead to giving up food altogether. It can, however, lead to an awareness about food choices one makes. Also, it doesn’t imply that everyone MUST necessarily get stomach cramps to make better food choices. I also know of people who still persist on making wrong decisions despite negative consequences.
2. Now, here is the irony and an extremely obvious contradiction in your statement. You advocate for Iran to build nuclear bombs. In fact, you’re tacitly advocating the need for Iran to have an effective tool for retaliation which, based on your view, encourages restraint to attack Iran on the part of the US. This is the very nation, per you, have (had) understood rather well how to be able to exercise independent judgement without fear of retaliation . Are you able to see the contradiction?
Yesterday, foreign ministers (Iraq, Pakistan and Zimbabwe), deputy miniters and diplomats from other 24 world and regional state as well as the UN envoy to Tehran – got together in Tehran to find out a peaceful solution to Syrian crisis funded by the enemies of the axis of resistance (Hamas, Hizbullah and Iran) foreign powers.
http://rehmat1.com/2012/08/10/tehran-international-conference-on-syria/
{That is why the Iran-Brazil-Turkey deal was killed; the idea was to limit the strategic autonomy of Iran – a goal that Chinese and Russian leaders could agree to as long as it did not damage their core interests.}
good
No Iranian should be deceived by the criminal states, Russia and China. Russia and China have close relations with Israel especially the criminal state of Russia. These countries have gained many concessions by selling other nations like Iran, Libya and Syria while Iran, Syria and the US have lost.
Israel is the winner while Americans suffers.
The stupid ‘pseudo left’ in the West is deceived by CRIMINAL RUSSIA AND CHINA because these people present these two criminal states as VICTIMS.
WHOEVER PRESENTs RUSSIA OR CHINA AS VICTIMS, they deserve to be called gullible, gullible, and nothing but gullible people.
Russia is in bed with imperialists and Zionists. There are a million Russians in Israel and Israel has no royalty to anyone except to ‘greater Israel’. Russia thinks by selling Iran to deliver for ISRAEL, not the United States, and then Russia can gain a strong foothold in the Middle East. Russia is mistaken.
Both Chinese and Russians are opportunists and TIMID. Look at their stupid policy regarding Libya and Syria. In both cases they sold Syria and Libya to gain a petty concession. They are responsible for massacre including Gaddafi’s family in Libya carried out by the US and NATO.
NO ONE FORGETS OR FORGIVE BETRAYAL OF RUSSIA AND CHINA.
China basically has been drowned in a swamp full of ‘cheap goods’. No one pays any attention to TIMIT countries like China and Russia where sacrifice countries after countries for petty things. They never become a super power ever. Iran has better chance than these petty countries.
Russia has shown over and over that cannot be trusted for a second. China is the same.
fyi,
Yes, Russia (and China) will not back any UNSC resolution on Syria that opens the door to military intervention from outside. At least as things stand today.
China seems to have lost very little from the fall of the Gaddafi government in Libya. Russia apparently lost some arms deals.
Karl..,
If you have a link to any report on Iran’s production of medical isotopes (by operating the TRR with replacement nuclear fuel plates manufactured by Iran), please post it. Maybe Iran has refueled the TRR? Last time I checked, the TRR was still using the old fuel supplied by the West years ago.
fyi,
The CIA in 2007 blocked the war plans of Dick Cheney and his gang of neocons. The moron in the White House, due to his own ignorance and the gross incompetence of his team, including Condoleezza Rice, failed to take the opportunity to improve relations with Iran.
fyi,
I take it you agree Russia and China are strongly opposed to Iran’s building nukes and opposed to Iran’s stockpiling of 20 percent uranium. But you appear to think Iran can stockdpile as much as it pleases. Very dangerous assumption on your part.
Russia and China were and are sincere in wanting a negotiated resolution of the nuclear dispute. By contrast, I think it is clear many Americans involved in the matter are insincere, and want to promote the “interests” of Israel even if this means blocking a negotiated deal with Iran.
fyi says: August 9, 2012 at 6:05 pm
“[One of the losers in all of this was Mr. Erdogan; he was told – like a servant (“nowkar” in Persian) – by his betters in US to toe the line on Iran and to further facilitate the Civil War in Syria and to host the radar to protect Israel.]”
There’s another narrative regarding Turkey, fyi:
Davutoglu’s Fate is in the Hands of Assad
“Gursel Tekin, the deputy chairman of the opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), has predicted that the Turkish FM Ahmet Davutoglu will be sacked after implicating Turkey in the Syrian crisis. Tekin added that Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is planning to get rid of Davutoglu soon.
For some time now, Davutoglu has been the target of sharp attacks by opposition parties and many media analysts, who blame him for the dismal failure of the Turkish policy in Syria, as he is the one responsible for devising and selling it to the prime minister.
Here, many cite the Turkish stance on Libya, where Erdogan had strongly opposed intervention by NATO and the West, and said that Turkey would not stand for it.
But a week later, the prime minister reversed course, after the US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made a phone call to Davutoglu, and somehow managed to convince him to stand on Washington’s side in return for “large rewards” for Turkey and the Justice and Development Party (AKP).”
====
I have no knowledge of the credibility of Albawaba. It appears to be pro-Assad.
“
@James Canning
The International Crisis Group conclude the Iran essentially boxed itself in, at huge cost. This was wise? Not in the opinion of the writers of the report you quote from.
Give readers the quotes and links to:
–The International Crisis Group conclude the Iran essentially boxed itself in
–This was wise? Not in the opinion of the writers of the report you quote from.
We want exact quotes and cites and none of your slanted personal interpretations. Exact. “Essentially boxed in; unwise.”
The day of liberation is near. The day Khamanei and his terrorist cohorts will have to answer for their crimes against humanity.
Apprently France have made plans to evacuate their people in case of war.
http://www.businessinsider.com/france-is-preparing-its-citizens-from-israel-2012-8
So apparently they know war is coming but wont protest or do anything to stop it.
James Canning says:
August 9, 2012 at 5:18 pm
Look my friend; in 2007 US, EU, Russia, China, and India had the political cover to de-escalate with Iran.
That was because the US NIE had been leaked and popped the “war balloon”.
Instead, US, EU, Russia and Chinese leaders decided to go for a soft war against Iran; gradually escalating sanctions and trying to wreck Iran.
That is why the Iran-Brazil-Turkey deal was killed; the idea was to limit the strategic autonomy of Iran – a goal that Chinese and Russian leaders could agree to as long as it did not damage their core interests.
US and EU spent 2010 devising cunning sanctions scheme against Iran – trying to wreck Iran.
Russian and China, of course, made the usual protestations about international law and imposing sanctions outside of UNSC, but they were happy to give US and EU enough rope to hang themselves with; getting Axis Powers to sink deeper and deeper into the morass of siege war against Iran.
Nor were Russia and China keen on confronting Axis Powers on behalf of Iran.
The Chinese, specially, while acknowledging that Iran was the only State between Hindu Kush to the Mediterranean Sea, also believed that Iranians must sink or swim.
The Arab Spring, the Collapse of (US-EU) Finance Economy, and the Libyan War altered all of that in 2011.
And now, in 2012, we saw that Chinese and Russian leaders neutered any UNSC sanctions against Syria, and by implication, against Iran.
[One of the losers in all of this was Mr. Erdogan; he was told – like a servant (“nowkar” in Persian) – by his betters in US to toe the line on Iran and to further facilitate the Civil War in Syria and to host the radar to protect Israel.]
Mr. Salehi has to act and speak as a diplomat.
He cannot be frank in public.
This war will go on until the last insurgent in Syria is dead and Iranian finances have by-passed the Euro-American financial system.
Give it 4 more years.
{Iran is a dictatorship moving toward fascism. It is a brutal regime. You have to be here in Iran to see, feel and experience the police state that the Islamic Republic has become. Some argue that external threat is partially responsible for this brutality.}
You the enemy of Iran
Why don’t you ask US, Israel and their puppet to leave Iran alone for while to see if Iran behaves the same or not. You an idiot they have left Saudis and other racists and terrorist states alone, like Israel, Bahrain, Libya, and Egypt, Congo alone and they are after Iran.
You are the enemy of Iran. Get out of the country.
James,
Did you just claim that Iran does not produce isotopes for patients?
fyi,
You argue that Iran’s production of 20 percent uranium is part and parcel of a “war”. This conflicts with the numerous statements of Salehi et al. that the Iranian nuclear programme is striclty civilian.
Don Bacon,
The International Crisis Group conclude the Iran essentially boxed itself in, at huge cost. This was wise? Not in the opinion of the writers of the report you quote from.
Has Iran produced a single medical isotope from all the 20 percent uranium it has enriched?
China has made very clear it does not want Iran building nukes and China warned Iran not to close the Strait of Hormuz.
. . .To counter this, Khamenei advances the “economy of resistance,” which, of course, has “certain requirements”: “Putting the people in charge of the economy is among the requirements of an economy of resistance…Certain things have already been done, but it is necessary to make more efforts. It is necessary to strengthen the private sector. The private sector should be encouraged to engage in economic activities and our banking system, governmental organizations and the organs that can help—such as the Majles and the judiciary—should help the people step into the arena of economy.
Regarding Khamenei’s emphasis on the economy, I thought this analysis from Russia was interesting. It addresses inflation in Iran, and the cause of it, and the additional efforts required — to correct mistakes that were made?
“. . .The prices of some consumer goods have risen one and a half to two times. However, it’s worth mentioning that this was not so much a consequence of anti-Iranian sanctions, as it was the government’s economic policies since 2006. From 2007 to 2009, in order to lower domestic prices on a range of household goods, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s team allowed uncontrolled imports, significantly lowering import duties. This poorly conceived decision led to bankruptcy for a number of domestic producers, and the rise of unemployment. And then the world economic crisis came along, and it became obvious that the government was too late with its economic reforms. . .But now, the Majlis (Parliament) is discussing the issue of transitioning to commercial prices for fuels. The rise in prices and the elimination of indirect subsidies are designed to offset the direct grants paid by the government to the low-income sectors of the population.”
from “Persian Chess,” Odnako, Russia, Jul 24, 2012, as translated
http://watchingamerica.com/News/168573/persian-chess/
James,
Funny how you try to blame it on Iran.
Do you deny that 20% enrichment is illegal?
Do you deny the right for a state to protect itself, thus for example building facilities underground? Especially considering how Israel approached Iraq and Syrian nuclear program with force?
Whats your problem with international law?
Don Bacon,
The “judgement” was offered by the International Crisis Group in a study FYI linked.
fyi,
If Iran continues to stockpile 20 percent uranium, as you encourage, it means more sanctions, and still more sanctions. How does this strengthen the country? The emotional satisfaction that stems from “defying” arrogant foreign powers?
According to some news France have begun plans to evacuate french people from Israel in case of war.
http://www.businessinsider.com/france-is-preparing-to-evacuate-its-citizens-from-israel-2012-8
-
So obviously the western states will not even try to stop a war, there will be tacit or even participation in a possible war.
James Canning says:
August 9, 2012 at 2:26 pm
James, those who bring forth the sanctions are opportunists.
20% is a real issue. Nuclear non-proliferation is a real issue. Human rights is a real issue. The problem with the hegemonists is that they take these real issues, issues that honest, sincere, and tireless people devote their entire lives working to resolve, and distort and manipulate the meanings of these issues and international instruments and organizations in order to advance their own selfish ideological agenda.
20%, once probably a genuine issue, is now only the latest victim of their manipulation. It is dead and meaningless, because the hegemonic powers have revealed their lack of interest in actually resolving the problem. They are the ones who blundered, and they continue blunder.
James, if 20% had not been there for the hegemonic media and governments to exploit, another issue would have been found and exploited to make “real” the “threat” of Iran’s nuclear activities, or lack thereof, or whatever, because it does not matter. Their plan exists independent of Iranian actions.
James Canning says:
August 9, 2012 at 2:21 pm
I have stated my personal opinion as a private individual.
Mr. Khamenei is the highest state authority in Iran and it is his opinion that counst – not mine.
I believe that Iran should have left the non-proliferation treaty back in 1998.
[But people like me were in minority - there were too many Iranians inside and outside of the government that thought - in spite of the shredding of CWT in case of Iran-Iraq War - that they could productively work with EU and, at a later time, with US.
I think the events of the last 14 years have finally disabused these weak-minded Iranians of their fantasies.]
It is too late now for Iran to leave NPT – she should wait until after US/Israeli attack.
But, in the meantime, she should continue building her nuclear infrastructure.
The fact remains that without teh ability to build nuclear weapons, Iran cannot persist as a unitary and coherent state.
I have not yet see anyone anywhere – in Persian, Arabic, French, Russian, Hebrew, Chinese or English, disputing this fact.
@James Canning
“You apparently agree with the International Crisis Group statement that Iran has paid a huge price for enriching to 20% and developing Fordow? And how has this price been worth it, in your estimation?”
You seem to think that you and we somehow have the need to judge Iran’s decisions, some sort of White Man’s Burden for Persians.
Actually we have no such prerogative. Iran is fully capable of making its own decisions, and in fact Iran has been quite successful in defying the greatest power the world has ever know. Quite successful. In fact Iran has come out ahead when one considers the gift of Iraq and also the fine example that Iran is setting for other much larger countries to emulate — including fellow Asians China and India with whom Iran has close ties, among others.
And you took the ICG quote out of context. It went on: “Any retreat on these matters [20% and Fordo] would have to be accompanied by momentous Western concessions lest the entire enterprise [i.e. negotiations] appear to be what many suspect it to be: a political and economic folly.” So yes, Iran paid a price that it considered worthwhile and now the West has to pay a greater price to reverse Iran’s decisions. Looks pretty smart on Iran’s account, doesn’t it. That’s how the price is worth it.
It works in poker too, I’m told.
ty says:
August 9, 2012 at 2:16 pm
You do not seem to be aware of the need to be able to exercise independent judgement without fear of retaliation – without it the willingness to take initiative will be killed in all levels of society.
The Americans have (had) understoold that much.
Irshad says:
August 9, 2012 at 11:11 am
No chance of that.
James Canning says:
August 9, 2012 at 2:58 pm
Wars have costs.
This was one such cost.
@ Mohammad
“I too live in Iran . . . Iran is definitely not a police state and that’s a very exaggerating, misleading statement.”
I have a question for you, a simple question that gets to “police state.”
First, when I travel from my home in the USA to the nearest major city in my vehicle I must traverse a government quasi-military (manned by Border Patrol, but this is not on the border) checkpoint. I wait in a line of vehicles and then finally traverse the checkpoint which is staffed by armed government agents equipped with a drug-sniffing dog, cameras, radar etc. I might be asked questions like where are you coming from , where are you going, are you a citizen, etc. I also might be asked to move my vehicle to a “secondary inspection area” for a more detailed vehicle inspection, opening the trunk, etc. Or (depending on the checkpoint — there are many others elsewhere) I might just be waved through, which is more usual if one has a white skin like I do.
Do you have the same or a similar experience in Iran?
fyi,
You apparently agree with the International Crisis Group statement that Iran has paid a huge price for enriching to 20% and developing Fordow? And how has this price been worth it, in your estimation?
Karim,
I too live in Iran, but I disagree with you. The state of freedom in Iran may not be perfect, but it’s generally acceptable, and it will get much better if the United States stops imposing a siege mentality on Iran. Iran is definitely not a police state and that’s a very exaggerating, misleading statement.
And here’s a question from IPI’s 2010 poll of Iranians:
36. Some people say we need controls on opposition to protect Islam and Iran from its enemies. Others say we need more democracy, freedom and the rule of law if Iran is to flourish. Which of these is closer to your view?
Need controls to protect Islam and Iran from its enemies……51%
Need more democracy, freedom and the rule of law…………..32%
Refused to answer……………………………………….8%
Don’t now……………………………………………..10%
Photi,
Iran’s announcement in June 2011 of its intention to treble production of 20 percent enriched uranium led drectly to the latest sanctions.
Israel, and the Israel lobby in the US, and the Israel lobby in other countries, would want Iran sanctioned even if it had not announced its intention to treble production of 20 percent uranium. However, to me it is clear Iran blundered badly by trebling production of 20 percent uranium.
Do you agree with FYI that Iran should build nukes, even though Khamenei says Iran does not want nukes?
fyi,
Once again you argue Iran should build nukes. So you think Khamenei’s statement that Iran does not want nukes, is of no consequence?
fyi says,
Actually, the freedom from retribution when one makes mistakes or screws up is a fundamental strength of US system; and it is at all levels of society and in all activities. …Otherwise, leaders, in business, industry, education, medicine, and government will be afraid of making decisions.
Fallacious argument. Would suffering the consequences of eating a contaminated/corrupt food make people afraid of eating altogether?
Ray McGovern envisions diabolic storms of war on the near horizons.
http://scotthorton.org/2012/08/05/80212-ray-mcgovern/
Ray is not only a man of conscience and honor, he is quite knowledgeable.
He should be taken seriously.
Jay,
Why do you think it makes good sense for Karl not to say whether he thinks Iran should try to negotiate a resolution of the dipsute, with the P5+1? I am truly curious. Do you think Iran should refuse to negotiate?
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has yet to confirm, but sources claim he intends to attend upcoming Tehran summit of Non-Aligned Movement. This is in line with Ban’s policy, expressed in May: “The United Nations has greatly benefited from our partnership with the Non-Aligned Movement for decades. We share an abiding belief in the importance of international cooperation, justice and equality, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.”
–and–
Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei will address the 16th Non-Aligned Movement Summit of Leaders in Tehran, It was announced on Sunday.
–but–
Israel fears UN chief’s visit to Iran will undermine efforts to thwart nuclear program
–so–
Guess what the US will order lap-dog Ban to (not) do regarding a meeting concerning “the importance of international cooperation, justice and equality, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.”
@Irshad
“If Iran tries to close the Straits of Hormuz, it will be closed for a short while, as the US Navy can easily re-open it.”
No. It took months to clear mines used in the Tanker War. Iran now has thousands of mines that it can quickly sow using various means. They are ten times as powerful as those used in the Tanker War and would take forever to remove, especially since the US is weak on mine clearance. Mines are dangerous. Since 1950, naval mines have inflicted four times the number of ship causalities on the U.S. Fleet than all other threats combined.
Iran is believed to have as many as 3,000 sea mines. Some estimates go as high as 5,000, but no one knows the exact number as Iran never discloses all its capabilities and arsenals. Whatever, it’s the fourth largest sea mine arsenal in the world after the United States, Russia and China. The EM-52 is probably the most dangerous mine Iran has. But the bottom-influence EM-11 and the EM-31 moored mine can also play havoc with surface craft.
The hard-to-detect “rocket mine” that’s triggered by the distinctive magnetic our acoustic signature of a ship, such as a US aircraft carrier, and then launches a propelled 600-popund warhead at the target. Then there’s the Russian MDM6, equally difficult to detect, that can tackle multiple targets. It lies on the seabed that fires a torpedo-like warhead when it senses a vessel. Both these mines can be laid by Iran’s Kilo-class submarines.
Irshdad,
So now Israel want US to send its forces to destroy syrian chemical weapons?
Like nuclear weapons topic western states will of course not bring up the factual israeli biological and chemical weapons.
Irshad says:
August 9, 2012 at 11:11 am
Irshad-
David Sanger’s rule is like Judith Miller or David Ignatius of WP, they are tasked by PSYOP planers to spread propaganda not necessary for internal consumptions, but rather are meant for the consumption of the adversaries to react.
I strongly doubt Sanger knows what the real plans are, or if he is willing to question the information given to him to spread, I think Judith Miller believed what she was feed to write and spread, the people who were feeding her they knew that Iraq did not have WMD and they knew she will not research the information they feed her. 70% of all wars and 90% of intelligence work are mostly psychological operations sent through by public (Media) or the private (Diplomatic) messages.
I strongly doubt David Sanger (AKA David Singer as for singing the propaganda tunes) is told more than you and me what the real plans are.
An Iranian View says:
August 9, 2012 at 10:15 am
Mr. Khamenei stated 2 years ago: “Do not try this nation with sanctions..”
But US-EU leaders just had to do it; didn’t they?
David Sanger is saying, Obama may be ready to send in special forces to “secure” Syrias chemical weapons from fallen in to the “wrong hands”.
If Iran tries to close the Straits of Hormuz, it will be closed for a short while, as the US Navy can easily re-open it. Hence gas prices will only spike for a short while:
http://www.wnyc.org/shows/bl/2012/aug/09/david-sanger-syria-iran-and-regional-conflict/
If Sanger reflects what policy makers are thinking in the White House, then war between iran and he USA will be closer then we think – and this was supposed to be an election year!
This is a very important piece. The US and western governments along with the western media try to portray Iran as irrational country, yet it’s quite clear that it is western leaders that are irrational.
Empty says:
August 8, 2012 at 10:10 pm
Actually, the freedom from retribution when one makes mistakes or screws up is a fundamental strength of US system; and it is at all levels of society and in all activities.
Otherwise, leaders, in business, industry, education, medicine, and government will be afraid of making decisions.
Karim says:
August 8, 2012 at 9:07 pm
I am pleased to learn that Iranin leaders want nuclear weapons.
Those weapons are indeed necessary for the safety and security of Iranian people and the continuation of the Iranian state.
As for the internal situation in Iran, unfortunately, Iran and her allies are in the middle of a war and security issues will always be paramount under such circumstances.
Undoubtedly, situation was much better under Mr. Khatami, but you witnessed what US and EU did at that time; pocketed his concessions and Iran got nothing.
Do you remember how the French humiliated him by impounding the Iranian Presidential Plane for a while?
Ramadan Kareem to all.
James,
You once again repeated your argument without responding to my reply, I have already answered your questions stop acting like I havent, go back to the 2 previous post by Leverett’s on this site. Enough.
You are quite the piece of work James. The Rahbar, in a logical and dignified way, crushes any argument you ever made, and you carry on like him and you even remotely live in the same plane of reality.
Quote from the Ayatollah (from above):
“this showdown is because of such issues as the nuclear issue and the issue of human rights, and this is a lie…Today there is nobody in the world who believes that America is after human rights and the rights of nations or that the Zionist regimes—which commits genocide and murders children—is after establishing democracy in other countries…Similarly, their claim that they are opposed to the Islamic Republic because of nuclear weapons is also a lie. In the beginning, we announced it as a guess, but later on it became clear during international negotiations and interactions that they know the Islamic Republic is not after nuclear weapons…The claim that these pressures, these sanctions, these sieges, these enmities and these hostilities are due to the issue of nuclear weapons and technology is a lie. The fact that this claim is false is also a reality.”
James, using the analysis of Ayatollah Khamenei, you and your 20% Iranian blunder talk is helping to perpetuate a lie.
Whose analysis is more solid James, yours or his?
Hans Blix, the UN weapons inspector in Iraq, interviewed in 2004:
The primary difficulty with looking for weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, said Blix, was the “problem of proving the negative. For example, how can you prove that there is not a tennis ball in this room?”
http://berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2004/03/18_blix.shtml
Obama knows that, of course, so Obama’s “The point is that for them to prove to the international community that their intentions are peaceful and that they are, in fact, not pursuing weapons” is (1) impossible on its face, because one can’t prove a negative, and since it is impossible than it is (2) proof positive that the real issue is something else (hegemony).
Then Obama compounds the stupidity of his position by demanding that Iran halt a uranium processing operation that is completely, fully, one hundred percent harmless because it is under 24/7 UN supervision. What’s with that? That makes no sense either.
And then there’s Obama giving up Iran’s help (as after 9/11) on Syria and Afghanistan, among others — more stupidity.
Obama was popular in the Moslem world after Ankara and Cairo (2009) and because anything was an improvement over Bush. Now he’s down there where Bush was (Pew Global Report). No better. Even worse, considering AfPak. Get the hook.
Thank you. A well-chosen series of excerpts. Ayatollah Khamenei has been underestimated by many, friends and foes/internal and external powers alike for many years. I personally believe such underestimation was a blessing in disguise. It allowed ample space for critical elements to get solidified and well rooted.
RE: Considering how badly U.S. policy in the Middle East is faring, political elites in Washington would be well-advised to reflect “in a logical and dignified way” about America’s real interests in the region and how best to pursue them.
I think there is a fundamental flaw in the actual set-up of the political system in the US that makes this recommendation by the Leveretts difficult to implement. The American political system is, by design, a fragmented short-term (4-8 years), self-serving system that makes it extremely easy for the officials to cheat, deceive, and dodge responsibility. A president, for example, no matter how badly and disastrously he screws up, he has immunity and is assured a life-time payment for his livelihood. It makes no sense.
rebel says:
Back in the year 2000, neo-conservatives planned to annihilate the countries which oppose the Israel occupation, top of the list were; Iraq, Libya Syria and Iran.
Watch this panorama documentary in its entirety and improve your knowledge of international politics and the world order.
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article8581.htm
Since the Iraq war and well before the recent uprising, the CIA had plans to overthrow the Assad government.
When the uprising began, they saw this as the best opportunity to topple Assad.
They armed and trained the oppositions in both lybia and Syria.
CIA also tried to do the same in Iran back in June 2009 election, they tried to topple the democratically elected government of Ahmadinejad but unlike the 1953, they failed miserably.
If the Iranian government did not stop the CIA backed uprising in June 2009, Iran would have been torn apart much worse than what we are witnessing in Syria today.
The Iranians are a lot more street wise than their counter parts in the Middle East. They are not easily fooled by the US & Israel Governments barking freedom and democracy for their people.
Iran is a dictatorship moving toward fascism. It is a brutal regime. You have to be here in Iran to see, feel and experience the police state that the Islamic Republic has become. Some argue that external threat is partially responsible for this brutality. I do not believe so. Arresting and beating young women for not being dressed properly has nothing to do with external threat. Attacking Baha’i villages in the north and destroying their homes and cemetery has nothing to do with external threat. The military complex now controls all aspects of our lives. Regardless of irrational and aggressive policies of the US and Israel, it will be a dark day for us, people of Iran, when the Islamic Republic gets its hand on a nuclear bomb. Do not believe for a moment that Iran does not want the bomb. They want it and they are going to get it. All you need to do, is to talk to members of revolutionary guard off the record. They are not shy about their goal at all.
Karl.. says:
August 8, 2012 at 5:56 pm
James,
Karl,
I suspect you have unpacked James’ question and you have recognized that the “question” posed by James is a set of conclusions and assertions that is posed in the form of a question.
Khamenei’s statement “The truth is that their opposition is because of the essence of the Revolution…” captures it nicely.
Ayatollah Khamenei vs. President Obama
It’s interesting to compare the positions of President Obama and Ayatollah Khamenei using their own words. Quotes follow from an Obama interview and Khamanei’s speech.
relative world situations
Obama
There is no doubt they are isolated. They have a very ingrown political system. They are founded and fueled on hostility towards the United States, Israel, and to some degree the West. And they have shown themselves willing to go outside international norms and international rules to achieve their objectives. All of this makes them dangerous. They’ve also been willing to crush opposition in their own country in brutal and bloody ways.
Khamenei
The Islamic Republic “is faced with a showdown with a few arrogant powers and governments…They have a number of followers who are also opposed to us, but their existence is not independent and they do not have any power. If superpowers like America stopped supporting them, they would be nothing. They would not even be considered in global and international equations. . .the regimes which are opposed to the Islamic Republic are in crisis.”
reason for showdown
Obama
I think it’s entirely legitimate to say that this is a regime that does not share our worldview or our values. . . . I’ve emphasized is that preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon isn’t just in the interest of Israel, it is profoundly in the security interests of the United States, and that when I say we’re not taking any option off the table, we mean it. We are going to continue to apply pressure until Iran takes a different course.
Khamenei
Regarding claims that claims that “this showdown is because of such issues as the nuclear issue and the issue of human rights, and this is a lie…Today there is nobody in the world who believes that America is after human rights and the rights of nations or that the Zionist regimes—which commits genocide and murders children—is after establishing democracy in other countries…Similarly, their claim that they are opposed to the Islamic Republic because of nuclear weapons is also a lie.”
the basis of the crisis
Obama
My point here is not that I believe the sincerity of the statements coming out of the regime. The point is that for them to prove to the international community that their intentions are peaceful and that they are, in fact, not pursuing weapons, is not inconsistent with what they’ve said. So it doesn’t require them to knuckle under to us. What it does require is for them to actually show to the world that there is consistency between their actions and their statements. And that’s something they should be able to do without losing face.
Khamenei
“The truth is that their opposition is because of the essence of the Revolution and the existence of the Islamic Republic. They were ruling the region without any worries. They had full control over a country like Iran, with its rich resources and numerous facilities. They used to do whatever they wanted. They used to make whatever decisions they wanted. They used to make the best of the facilities of our country in order to advance their own goals. But now they have been deprived of all these things.
strength in negotiations
Obama
I think that the Israeli government recognizes that, as president of the United States, I don’t bluff. I also don’t, as a matter of sound policy, go around advertising exactly what our intentions are. But I think both the Iranian and the Israeli governments recognize that when the United States says it is unacceptable for Iran to have a nuclear weapon, we mean what we say. Let me describe very specifically why this is important to us.
Khamenei
Our retreats emboldened them. There was a day when our government officials would be satisfied if they allowed us to have twenty-five centrifuges in the country, but they said it was not possible. Then our government officials became satisfied with having five centrifuges, but they still said it was not possible. Then our government officials became satisfied with three centrifuges, but again they said it was not possible…Today, we have eleven thousand centrifuges in the country. If we had continued those retreats, if we had continued that flexibility, we would have achieved none of these nuclear advances.”
Iran reaction to sanctions
Obama
They know, for example, that when these kinds of sanctions are applied, it puts a world of hurt on them. They are able to make decisions based on trying to avoid bad outcomes from their perspective. So if they’re presented with options that lead to either a lot of pain from their perspective, or potentially a better path, then there’s no guarantee that they can’t make a better decision.
Khamenei
Khamenei advances the “economy of resistance,” which, of course, has “certain requirements”: “Putting the people in charge of the economy is among the requirements of an economy of resistance…Certain things have already been done, but it is necessary to make more efforts. It is necessary to strengthen the private sector. The private sector should be encouraged to engage in economic activities and our banking system, governmental organizations and the organs that can help—such as the Majles and the judiciary—should help the people step into the arena of economy.
effect of Arab Spring
Obama
The Arab Spring, as bumpy as it has been, represents a strategic defeat for Iran, because what people in the region have seen is that all the impulses towards freedom and self-determination and free speech and freedom of assembly have been constantly violated by Iran. [The Iranian leadership is] no friend of that movement toward human rights and political freedom. But more directly, it is now engulfing Syria, and Syria is basically their only true ally in the region.
Khamenei
Our movement has motivated the world of Islamic and today we can see the signs in North Africa, in the Middle East and in all countries. This is what they are angry about. The Islamic Republic is the focus. They want to harm the Islamic Republic and make it a lesson for others. This is their real motive. And this is another reality.”
Jul 24, 2012
Supreme Leader’s Speech to Government Officials
http://english.khamenei.ir/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1655&Itemid=4
Mar 2, 2012
Conversation at White House, President Obama with Jeffrey Goldberg
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/03/obama-to-iran-and-israel-as-president-of-the-united-states-i-dont-bluff/253875/#
Bravo, re: last sentence (Washington’s “political elites” need to grasp what is really in America’s best interests).
Karl..,
Once again you refuse to say whether you think Iran should block any deal with the P5+1 by insisting on continuing to stockpile 20 percent uranium. This is peculiar since you have argued that the stockpiling of the 20% U is to gain leverage in the negotiations.
Or, are you suggesting the P5+1 would accept Iranian enrichment to 20 percent?
Khamenei says that the “number of followers” in the ME, of the US and Israel, have strong media/propaganda capabilities. Very true. He also says they, apparently also referring to the P5+1, “know the Islamic Republic is not after nuclear weapons.”
James,
Yes you keep dodging my answer, like any answer people give here you just keep repeating your argument no matter what. You are pushing an agenda, you have no interest in debate.
Yes people here agree with me, or do you deny that people dont buy your 20% argument? Really?