Mousavi's 14th Statement to People of Iran

Here is a translation of the text:

In the Name of God the Compassionate, the Merciful,

In our modern history, the thirteenth of Aban (7th of November) is reminiscent of three events. The first was when Imam Khomeini was exiled, and the movement went into a thirteen year recession. After being able to silence the movement by sending the Imam into exile, the Shah’s regime marveled at why such a thing was not done sooner. There was one uprising and one Imam, and when he was far from it, there was nothing left of its spirit. Was the Imam truly alone in the movement he had begun? Never. It is never such that one person can create change in society. He had many followers, but they were not like the friends that would surround him years later, when he said: “our leader is that 13 year old child …”

The second thirteenth of Aban is the day of thirteen year old leaders. Students who had gathered at the University of Tehran for a protest and faced a most violent death. It was the regime’s experience with the events of the 40s [the 1960s] that caused such a bloody reaction. They [the regime] thought that if they act as determined as before, they will once again achieve the same incredible results. But that is while the base of society had changed. The monarchist establishment was no loner facing one Imam. This time, people had surrounded the Imam who may not have known him as well as their fathers did, or who had not heard his speeches, but who had as much spirit and strength in their hearts as the Imam himself. Unlike their fathers, they did not need to be repressed or to see as much evil to join this movement

Much has been said about the third thirteenth of Aban. It is unlikely that anything of that event has remained unsaid. Including the fact that in that event, the Imam followed the Muslim students. On the surface, the students called themselves the followers of the Imam, but in reality, it was the Imam who followed what they did. None of the leaders and commanders of the revolution had a role in shaping what came to be that day. Even the students themselves thought that everything would be over in a few days and they will return home. But the Imam followed the events and called it a revolution greater than the first revolution. Only anImam who has experienced the bitter taste of thirteen years of exile knows that a society which has lived under rigid and severe rule does not have spirit and does not have a healthy existence. He preferred to let people lead because he knew simply passing one historic milestone is not enough in the prosperity of a nation. The nation must have such knowledge and insight to be able to tell right from wrong in every day and age, and to be able to walk the right path. Today, our people are the leaders and this is the great wish that the Imam had for them. He invited us to those thing which promise life.

And now, the thirteenth of Aban, this greenest day of the year is approaching. Today, is it conceivable that the flame of the people’s movement may be extinguished, if a fellow countrymen is kept silent? If such a thing happens, we will lose the fruit of 45 years of our history and our struggle. And if it doesn’t happen, this will show the roots of our revolutionary spirit. It is reliance on these roots that have made us green, roots that if we leave neglected, we will have turned to those very things that our opponents wish. It is thus absolutely necessary that we carefully approach any such extreme efforts.

Our movement will not benefit from leaving Islam to the hands of worshipers of superstition, leaving the revolution to the incompetent and the devious, neglecting the fruits of 100 years of struggle and replacing that heritage with misconstrued and twisted images, and alienating ourselves from that heritage. If some foreign governments insist on such tendencies, that may be because they have personal gains in such an effort. If need be, they will sit at the negotiation tables while turning their backs on the current movement of the Iranians, and they will be content with the little freedom and political progress that exists in neighboring countries, and we can not reprimand them for such actions. It is we ourselves who must be reprimanded if we do not tell wisely the interests of our own country.

These days, people are all asking of victory. When will we achieve it? How will we get there faster? And what will add to its perfection? Our entire existence is prayer and inquisition, and we are filled with the lords words who has said that he will grant us some of whatever we may wish [from the Koran: And he granted some of whatever you asked for.] The mere fact that a demand has been created in society means that no one will be able to get in its way and governments can only attempt to influence factors like time, scale and the shape of its realization.

Can we too influence these factors? Yes. [from the Koran] people will only reap rewards to the extent to which they use their intelligence and insight. In the past few months, our people have been blessed with the rewards of their own wisdom.

Our green path is a path of rationality and shows that we are persistent in standing up for our demands. If we were to be extremists, be certain that there would have been nothing left of us. ٍExtreme enthusiasm leads to unenthusiasm. If you need an example of this, look no further than the foreign policy of this government. The same time when they were busy infusing our international relations with propaganda, and refused to utilize moderation and intelligence, it was obvious that they would soon bargain the interests of our people with nothing. Sixteen years ago, neither the media nor statesmen considered developing nuclear fuel for Tehran’s program very important news. Today, it appears that a large proportion of the product of Iran’s nuclear program, which went on to see this much chaos and was to bring a number of sanctions for the people, must be handed to another country, in hopes that they will be kind enough to offer us some fuel later on. Is this a victory? It is an obvious deception when they call this “the greatest of victories”[Ahmadinejad’s speech].

The statesmen neither solved the problems of the world [which Ahmadinejad had claimed he would] or stressed the rights of their own people but rather, were willing to forgo those rights all together. They showed that in surrendering too they are extremists. Even if with the help of friends, losing the achievements of Iran’s nuclear program will be thwarted, we have not seen the last of this extremism and their actions will pave the way for more sanctions and isolation for Iran.

What we can learn from this is to avoid extremism ourselves. Sooner or later - and, with the help of god, sooner - those who stand against the people will leave. On that day, will only a ruined country remain for the nation? What we must be worried about today is the interests of our country and except for its rightful owners, no one else will be occupied with this. Building tomorrow must begin today. We must be so prepared that if tomorrow suddenly presents itself, we will not be taken by surprise. Each of us must feel the great responsibility that rests on our shoulders.

Our constant demand for the constitution to be carried out is a key solution to building the future. With such an approach, we will have a light to guide us in the dark, and we will not be stepping on the struggles of generations past. Whatever remains in our hearts and desires [that is not in the constitution] we will strive for in our life because formal structures do not reflect, for the most part, the greater realities that exist in society. The greater reality is what goes on in our lives. The superficial structures can arrest the children of this revolution and imprison them like criminals and dress them up in degraded clothing, but the people can look at those images and feel pride, and create heroes out of those very images. Who is the winner in this confrontation? The superficial structure can condemn these people in show trials and the people will be the final judge in those trials. Which of these is the true ruler of society? The superficial structure can degrade these families and attempt to shame them with its abusive behavior but while these families suffer, the people will always know them to be courageous and honorable. Which of these two views will win the hearts of these families? Pay attention, up to now, we’ve only been talking about the power that exists in the view of the people, and not about power they have to actually do other things. The superficial structures can sentence these families to isolation and the people can embrace them. Truly, which of these will triumph? The superficial structures can deprive the students of dormitories for the crime of expressing their opinion and deprive them of a livelihood and the social networks can back them with their support. Which of these groups is more powerful? But this is a wrong way to frame the question because in essence, there is no confrontation between these two entities. One is, and the other isn’t. It is our life that gives meaning to any matter in the external order of society. In the past few months we have changed society not by breaking this external order but by changing its meaning. We have no need to break order when it is we who give it direction in every circumstance.

This will be our path from now on as well. When so many parts of our constitution go unnoticed, the truth is that there is no difference between good law and bad law. Even if the political structure of our country were in the best of orders, what difference does it make when our lives do not give it credibility? Does not give it meaning? Does not approve it and does not ask for it? In the same way, if this structure was backward or wrong, we could only attempt to correct it if we could first correct the meaning and we do this through the path we live in our lives.

There are so many nations who do not choose to exercise this power, who choose to leave power in the hands of the powerful. They will not lead their societies, but we will.

The thirteenth of Aban is that pledge which reminds us that among us, it is the people who are the leaders. I send my deepest wishes to the people of Iran for this day, and I ask the lord for freedom, patience and rewards that are worthy of the creators of this day, some of whom are now in prison, and the other hostages of the green movement.

Mousavi and Khatami Argue for Continued Opposition

Here is the story according to the AP:

Iran's opposition leaders vowed Saturday to continue challenging the ruling system despite a harsh crackdown by security forces that killed dozens of protesters in post-election turmoil.

The statements Saturday from opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi and former President Mohammad Khatami were seen as attempts to reinvigorate the anti-government Green Path of Hope movement just days ahead of an annual state-sponsored Iranian rally against the United States.

Mousavi suggested that his supporters may take to the streets on Wednesday to mark the 30th anniversary of the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran by militant students. Hard-liners have already called on security forces to take tough action against any opposition rally that day.

Thousands of people were arrested in the heavy crackdown this summer that crushed mass protests in support of Mousavi, who claims the June 12 disputed presidential election was stolen through massive vote fraud. It was the country's worst unrest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The opposition says at least 72 protesters were killed, while the government puts the number of confirmed dead at 30.

On Saturday, a semi-official news agency reported that Morteza Alviri, a top aide to another opposition leader, Mahdi Karroubi, had been released from jail.

The semi-official Mehr news agency did not provide further details. Alviri, a former vice president, had been detained in early September after security forces raided his home in Tehran.

In the statement posted on his Web site Saturday, a defiant Mousavi promised his supporters that hard-liners in the ruling system will be defeated, but did not say how.

"The Green Path is a rational direction ... because it shows that we will remain focused steadfastly on our demands until the end," Mousavi said.

"Sooner or later — and hopefully very soon — opponents of the people will leave the scene," Mousavi said.

Former popular president Mohammad Khatami, in a separate appearance before students on Saturday, vowed that reformists will continue to challenge hard-liners.

"A crisis has taken place ... if we, who believe the basis of the ruling system, can't speak, others who don't believe in it will take action," Khatami told the group of students.

"We believe there are deviations (in the ruling system) that need to be reformed ... we will remain critics of the current power," Khatami said.

The post-election bloody crackdown and a mass trial of pro-reform figures, which has so far produced three death sentences, quelled the weeks of street protests that followed the vote.

Protests at Sharif University

Protests occurred on Oct. 30 at Sharif University in the dorm areas in support of the student who stood up to Khamenei.

Student Stands Up to Khamenei

A a student stood up to Khamenei at an appearance at Sharif University. Here is the account:

Several Iranian websites, including the official site of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have published details of an unusual encounter between Khamenei and a student who publicly criticized the Iranian establishment.

The encounter took place in an October 28 meeting between Khamenei and students in Tehran, during which the supreme leader said that questioning the disputed June 12 vote was the "biggest crime."

According to the reports, a student from Sharif University, named by some websites as Mahmud Vahidnia, criticized the Iranian leader, state broadcast media, the post-election crackdown, and the closure of the reformist press -- for a whole 20 minutes.

The student reportedly told Khamenei that he had never seen criticism of Khamenei in the Iranian press. He said those surrounding Khamenei have turned him into "an idol."

He then went on to accuse state media of biased reporting and giving a false picture of post-election events. He added that since the supreme leader appoints the head of state broadcast media, he is responsible for its content and biased coverage.

On a roll, the unnamed student then criticized "the cycle of power" in Iran, including the conservative Guardians Council and the Assembly of Experts.

According to Khamenei's website, the Iranian leader reacted by saying that he welcomes criticism and knows that there is a lot of it.

And Khamenei too is not always happy with state television programming. "Don't assume that because I appoint the head of state television, they bring all their programs to me for approval," the Iranian leader said.

The Mowj website, which focuses on news from the green opposition movement, reported that some of the participants encouraged the student, but then the cameras were shut down for a few minutes.

In the Islamic Republic, criticizing the supreme leader is considered a red line that few people are willing to cross publicly. A number of those who have done so have ended up in prison.

Mowj reported that the student was pressured by security forces present at the meeting.

Bayat-Zanjani Has Heart Attack

Ayatollah Bayat-Zanjani has had a heart attack and is now in intensive care in hospital. He is one of the strongest supporters of the Green Movement within the religious establishment.

Let us hope that he gets better and can return to his work in support of people.

Montazeri Does Not Hold Religious Ceremony

Grandy Ayatollah Montazeri did not hold a ceremony for the birthday of Imam Reza that eight Imam of Shii Islam. He said that he wanted to be in solidarity with the families of political prisoners:

Grand Ayatollah Montazeri in solidarity with the families of political prisoners and victims of the post-election events did not hold a celebration for the anniversary of the Birthday of Imam Reza (the eight Imam of shias). He announced that: “Although today is a great day and is the anniversary of the Birthday of Imam Reza (peace be upon him), but since many of our beloved scholars, those who are not only faithful individuals but also served this revolution and country passionately, are unfortunately in prison for false accusations; and to show solidarity and sympathy with the respected families of these loved ones, we did not hold a celebration today.” He also added: “During Shah’s time because many people were under oppression, Imam Khomeini announced not to hold the ceremony for the Birthday of the hidden Imam (which is one of the biggest celebrations in Shia’s calendar)”. At the end he expressed hope that the innocent prisoners be freed immediately and that God bless the authorities with more faith and wisdom so that they don’t repeat such acts.

Prisoners Family Protest

This is what happened according to Mousavi's Facebook:

Families of the political prisoners held a gathering on Wednesday October 28, 2009 in front of Tehran Prosecutor General's Office in protest to the continuation of imprisonment of their loved ones. According to the report by Nooroz, in the latest statement o...f the political prisoners’ families it has been emphasised that if the authorities do not pay any attention to their protest and do not follow up with the condition of their loved ones in the prison as their next move they will do more protests and will go on a sit-in and a mass hunger strike.

Khamenei Says Challenging Election a Crime

According to this article about recent statements by Khamenei, he said that the opposition does not have right to question the validity of the election results. If the elections were in fact legitimate, then why would he be worried about anyone questioning them?:

Iran's supreme leader said Wednesday that questioning the results of Iran's June presidential election is a crime, his strongest warning yet to opposition leaders who continue to insist the vote was rigged.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say on all state matters in Iran, did not go so far as to order the arrest of those leaders, as called for by hard-liners, but his words signaled the government could take stronger action if the criticism continues.

"The day after the election, some people, without logic or reason, called the glorious election a lie," state TV quoted Khamenei as saying.

He said questioning the election was "the biggest crime."

Abdollah Nouri Blasts Regime

Joining with Mohsen Kadivar, Abdollah Nouri is another reformist cleric who served in Khatami's administration. He blasts the regime and the way that it has treated the people of Iran.

He states that if the regime does not allow the people to be heard, then the regime will be changed. He also criticizes the the selective interpretation of the Constitution in which the regime only follows the parts that it wants and ignores the parts that secure freedom for the people.

Kadivar Blasts Khamenei

In an interview, reformist cleric Mohsen Kadivar blasts Khamenei and the actions that he has taken. Here is an English summary from Mousavi's Facebook:

Mohsen Kadivar is a scholar in Islam study, intellectual and invited professor at Duke University in the United States. In an interview with rahesabz news website, he advises the Supreme Leader that if he would like to stay in power, instead of ruling, he should monitor and leave the ruling to people’s real representatives. In his opinion, Ayatollah Khamenei, by following harsh policies, obliterating opposition and eliminating the reform movements, is trying to force the nation to understand that either they accept and obey him or they will be considered outlaws and there is no third alternative. Kadivar while reminding fifteen horrible mistakes made by the Islamic Republic throughout its thirty years of life considers the authority of Evin Prison (were the political prisoners are being held) much more than Sharif and Tehran universities (the top universities in Iran) and adds that Evin Prison is now the symbol and trademark of the Islamic Republic.

More Student Protests

The student protests continue with this one today at Khajeh Nasir Toosi University in Tehran:

Protests at Ahvaz University

This is what happened according to Mousavi's Facebook:


Following the assaults on reformist figures, especially the attacked on Karroubi and Alireza Beheshti in Media Fair, when Hamid Rasaee , a pro-Ahmadinejad member of the parliament, was giving a speech at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz (in South Iran) students strongly protested to his presence and by chanting slogans showed their objection to the coup government. At some point Rasaee accused the protesting students of having ties to Isreal and US, the students reacted strongly to this by throwing Green paper and bottled water at him, which in a surprise act Rasaee drank the water and ate the green paper !!!

Protests Continue at Azad University

Students protests continue today at Azad University in Tehran:

Next Big Protests

The next big event for the Green Movement is scheduled for Nov. 4 or the 13th of Aban in Iran. We will see if people will come out and protest as they did on Qods Day. Here is a good run down of what the day is and why it is important:

Preparations are underway for the 13th of Aban (November 4th) protests. 13th of Aban is significant for two reasons: on November 4th, 1979 a group of students raided the American embassy (’nest of spies’) and took the embassy workers hostage. A year before that, the Shah’s police had open fired on a student demonstration on that very day.

13th of Aban is a state celebration honoring students and their contribution to the IRI (at least what the IRI would like to label “contribution”.)

It has long been a state celebration, but already state officials are warning demonstrators. Like Quds day, there are no “permits” for the gatherings because they are state-sponsored events. But Ahmadi Moghadam, head of Iran’s security forces has said: “demonstrators need to apply for permits and it is obvious that any demonstration with a permit will be under police protection. At the same time, those who plan to unlawfully stage gatherings on this day will be stopped.

Also interesting video showing the original student day in 1978 showing the protests against that regime by students. It is scary how similar that time is to Iran today:

Beheshti at Media Fair

This media fair seems to be one happening place and a lot of action is going down there. Alireza Beheshti a top adviser to Mousavi and son of a martyred Ayatollah visited the fair. Mousavi's facebook describes what happened and makes a good connection to this regime and the MKO that killed Beheshti's father:

Dr. Beheshti – the senior advisor to Mir Hossein Mousavi and son of Martyred Ayatollah Beheshti– along with his wife and their little daughter attended the media fair as they also did in the previous years but this year the self-initiated movement o...f the people in support of the son of Martyred Ayatollah Beheshti and in opposition to the organized plans of a few thugs changed the atmosphere of the fair. A large group of people had gathered around Beheshti and were companying him when a group of 50-60 thugs in an organised attempt and while carrying some posters started yelling against Beheshti. This reminded many of the orchestrated chants against Martyred Beheshti by MKO as they used to chant “Down with Beheshti” just after the victory of the Islamic revolution.

Students Protests Continue

This video of students at Shahrood University in Northern Iran protesting shows that the regime has not been successful in suppressing the people and protests occur daily:

Karroubi Talks about Attack at Media Fair

Here is the English Translation:

In the name of God, most gracious, most merciful.

Three points must be stressed concerning the events that took place at the press fair last Friday: One has to do with the circumstances, another with the motives, and the last with myself.

As for the circumstances... I have always gone to exhibitions and continue to do so. This time when I visited, on the one hand the people generously expressed their kindness and I would even turn around and ask them not to chant slogans, and on the other, a few individuals began - and they're the ones who started it - saying 'Death to the hypocrite,' trying to provoke the people. The great mass of the people was standing and chanting, and the other individuals chanted too, and then we left the exhibition after a while. But on the way out, and this is the scheme that certain individuals had planned, they guided us in a direction through which the people behind us could not freely follow us, and in this manner they became a bit more radical.

The second point is about the motives. This is not the first time. During my visit to Masoumeh's shrine on the occasion of Imam Sadegh's martyrdom... Wherever I go, such actions are becoming commonplace. Fortunately, the people are responding spontaneously. Their intention is to prevent me from attending gatherings and to isolate me, in the same way that They closed the offices of the party and [inaudible]. (NB The offices of Karroubi's political party, the Etemad Melli Party, and his newspaper, Etemad Melli, were shut down in early September. For a report, please go here.) They want me to sit at home and not venture outside. So they're taking these steps to prevent me from going outside.

The third point that I want to mention is that I'm amazed that they're carrying out these measures with respect to me. I'm not new to these actions and I haven't started making these types of comments recently. In 1989, after the death of Imam Khomeini, I clashed with the 3rd Majlis, I denounced the deviation of the Assembly of Experts... In all those cases, I maintained a clear position, I constantly spoke out, and I went through difficult situations. Even back then, many of my friends were summoned daily to the Special Clergy Court or normal courts. I stood strong and endured those hardships. (NB Karroubi is cutting to the heart of the Islamic regime's identity and the notion of velayateh faghih - guardianship of the jurisprudent - from which the Supreme Leader derives power. As Karroubi mentions, this philosophical point has bedeviled the regime since the death of Khomeini: What is the exact role of the Assembly of Experts and, consequently, how much unquestioned power does the supreme leader wield? Hardliners believe that the Assembly of Experts should not exercise any oversight over the supreme leader and that it does not so much elect as reveal the person who becomes the supreme leader.)

On top of which, in those days, I was isolated and the people were not aware of the issue of oversight and the Assembly of Experts... But today, the people are standing as one, or at least a majority of the people are and they have a position and are standing firm.

In such circumstances, I shall be present on any stage... Be it a demonstration, the commemoration of the 22nd of Bahman (NB Date of the victory of the revolution, February 11, 1979), or Ashura (NB Religious holiday marking the martyrdom of Hossein). Whatever the day, whatever the place, we shall be present. But we're going to take an additional step. Previously, we wouldn't tell our friends where we'd be going and other details. Now we announce it, though we may be the object of our friends' criticisms. We will not retreat. Keeping in mind our pact with the Imam and the people, we remain loyal to the Islamic Republic and the constitution. We are standing firm on this path, with God's blessing, and we fear nothing.

God willing, we shall see who has remained true and who has not. In appropriate conditions, when either both factions are in power or neither one is, we shall see who has to repent and who does not need to. When you have one faction in power and the other faction has nothing at all, they can talk about repentance as much as they want. Those who need to repent are the traitors to the Islamic Republic who have deviated it, who have emptied it of its Islamic nature and destroyed its republican identity, and left nothing but its name.

Protests in Ahvaz

The latest protests in the Southern city of Ahvaz seem to be over both political and economic concerns. Let us see if the Green Movement can also tap into people's economic problems in order to organize more protests. This is what happened according to Mousavi's Facebook:

On Oct 25th Ahvaz, a city in south Iran, was a scene of protest. While the workers of a pipe making plant were protesting for not getting paid for ten months other people also joined them and they were chanting slogans like “Coup government, resign...resign”, “either justice or death” and etc.

Video of Karroubi at Fair

Here is some dramatic video of the attack on Karroubi at the Media Fair yesterday:



Also according to Mousavi's Facebook, this is what happened to Karroubi in his own words:


The attack on Mehdi Karroubi during his visit to the Media Fair on Oct 23rd in his own words: “On Friday I went to the Media Fair. On arrival large groups of people supported and welcomed me kindly. Then I went to the Exhibition Place and from there I was guided toward the booths to visit the fair and large numbers of people were kindly accompanying me though this path and I repeatedly asked them not to chant any slogans. Meanwhile a group of at most ten people (pro-Ahmadinejad hardliners) started chanting “Death to traitor” (calling Karroubi traitor) and when they insisted on chanting this slogan, the large number of people who were accompanying me in response started chanting slogans such as “death to dictator”, and all the witnesses can confirm that the number of people who were chanting against me was almost nothing compare to those who were chanting in support of me, while the number of people who were accompanying and supporting me was getting larger by minute. What was interesting was the peaceful nature of those who were supporting me and their calmness even when they were passing by some of the booths of the news agencies who are against reform (coup propaganda). However, as the slogans increased in order to prevent any tension that could have been taken advantage by some to use violence against people, I decided that it would be best to leave the exhibition and when I informed the authorities they escorted me from a special route and people could not accompany me anymore. After few minutes when it got less crowded, number of individuals whom their presences were certainly planned and as usual have no concerns regarding their actions, suddenly surrounded me and started chanting their usual slogans and took similar actions that they always do and some of them started throwing different objects including brochures [at me]. Karroubi’s son who was accompanying his father during his visit to Media Fair, by pointing out the injury to his father’s face said: “they were throwing brochures and handouts from upper floors that when hit him caused his turban to fall down and injured his face.” What is interesting is that the coup government’s propaganda has reported that the reason that Karroubi’s turban had fallen down was because he was going up the stairs!!!!

Bayat-Zanjani Speaks with Karroubi

Ayatollah Bayat-Zanjani spoke with Karroubi on the phone after the attack on his today. This is what happened according to Mousavi's Facebook:

Today (Oct 23rd) Grand Ayatollah Bayat-Zanjani in a phone conversation with Mehdi Karoubi while denouncing the recent assault against Karroubi in Media Fair by pro-Ahmadinejad hardliners, admired Karroubi’s resistance in front of these obscene and hi...deous acts. In this conversation Grand Ayatollah Bayat-Zanjani called Karroubi a fighter and a true believer and addressed to him said: “The more influential you are, the more they (pro-coup hardliners) resist you and these insulting attempts [just] reveal how successful you are.”

Mousavi Statement about Closing of Newspaper

This is a new statement from Mousavi:

The Green Word newspaper (Kalemeye Sabz) obtained a permit in February of 2009, and the first issue came out May 18th, 2009. On June 22nd, judiciary officials raided the office and although they had no permit to permanently close down the newspaper, it has not been published since. There were rumors that the newspaper would resume publication. But last night, Mousavi went to the head office and spoke about why this will not be the case:

I know how hard it is on the staff of a newspaper to see their publication closed down. But retreating is not always bad and does not always mean regret. Sometimes we step back to look at other possible paths.

After analyzing the costs and the benefits, our friends decided together not to resume publication. But of course, the fact that Kalemeyeh Sabz will not be published does not mean we will stop our activities and this means that we require innovative media that will reflect the views of this movement within frameworks that are beneficial to the country.

In the absence of a media that has the country’s best interests at heart, outlets like VOA and the BBC become the primary news outlets. It is natural that such outlets will have the best interests of their own country at heart.

In the process of the elections and the aftermath, innovative methods were used to spread information and while one path was closed, a hundred opened. The important thing is that now, everyone in this movement feels the need for a media and if we can keep this feeling alive in the people, in the future we may be able to find new ways of creating one.

The suspension of Kalemeyeh Sabz can be considered temporary, because, eventually, everyone’s voice needs to be heard. The real danger comes when we shut all possible routes of disseminating information, and bring down the establishment’s capability to accept criticism and thus add to an explosive circumstance.

They can not erect a wall around the country in the world we live in today. If the environment is not opened up, we will be left behind and we will be faced with a slew of new problems. In the past, it may have been possible to run the country without any links to the outside, but now, with the spread of technology and communication, such a thing is impossible.

From the days of the constitutional revolution onwards, there’s been a gap between intellectuals and the people. Intellectuals attended to things which were far from the everyday needs and worries of people. But recent events show that this gap is becoming more narrow.

There is a problem with the worldview of our intellectuals and politicians and that is that by emphasizing certain values, they leave many other valuable perspectives ignored. This is while in the everyday lives of our people, these values are not separated. [In the lives of our people] These value live together and they want to have them all. Iranian society is like the Greek god, Venus, who can bring together things which seem to be going in different directions. Our people can be saddened by the death of Neda Agha Soltan, the people of Gaza and others throughout the world.

In the green movement, we see this coming together of different values and all of those who have committed to this movement try to bring the best of their beliefs to the table and this is a path we must continue in the future.

Extreme slogans are because of anger. It is to our benefit to suggest slogans which are within the capacity of our country and to stay away from slogans which are rash and inconsistent with the conditions we face in the country.

We must not allow the events of the past few months to create pessimism about the revolution. It is obvious that those media outlets which are the voices of this or that power, are forced to defend the interests of their own country, even if they are broadcast in Persian. And through their outlets they will try to sow the seeds of hate towards the entire past thirty years, and they will even try to go after the efforts of our people in the great, historic holy war [Iran-Iraq war] and unfortunately, the policies of our own media is in line with the foreign media outlets and the situation that has been created for Kalemeyeh sabz today is a proof of this.

Montazeri and Sanei Condemn Arrests

After the arrests of reformists at a prayer ceremony, Ayatollahs Montazeri and Sanei condemn the actions of the regime. This according to Mousavi's Facebook.

Grand Ayatollahs Montazeri and Saanei, strongly condemned last night’s (Oct 22, 2009) raid on the families of political prisoners, who had gathered in a religious ceremony in the residence of Shahabbedin Tabatabai (a detained member of the Participation Front) to pray for his release, and the arrest of 30 members of these political prisoners’ families. Grand Ayatollah Montazeri after learning about this pathetic act by coup forces expressed deep sorrow and regret that in the Islamic Republic authorities are now raiding the religious ceremonies! He also reinstated that the original slogan of the revolution which is “Islamic Republic” has been ignored by the rulers and added that the most important slogan of the revolution, which is “Independence, Freedom, and Islamic Republic”, has been ignored and that the meaning of “Republic” in an Islamic government which is basically the same as people’s authority [and democracy], has been ignored and people’s right to be free is being violated. Also, Grand Ayatollah Saanei by strongly condemning this act, advised the families of the political prisoner to be patient and strong, as well as to be more resistance and to spread the information. He also by pointing out the raid on a religious ceremony said that when the families of political prisoners and innocent people are being attacked in a religious ceremony, it shows the weakness of the authorities, meaning that they cannot even tolerate a religious ceremony!

Karroubi Attacked at Media Fair

According to Mousavi's Facebook, Karroubi attended the Media Fair today in Iran and was attacked by regime thugs. He had to be rescued by his supporters who were able to get him away:

Karroubi in Media Fair on Oct 23: According to ParlemanNews, Secretary General of Etemad-Melli party entered the Press Fair among the chants and encouragement of many of his supports. Based on reports at the same time with Karroubi’s entrance to the Press Fair, hundreds gathered in front of FarsNews (coup government’s propaganda) booth and were chanting “Death to dictator” and similar Green slogans. It has also been reported that pro-Ahmadinejad hardliner were able to get close to Karroubi and assault him and according to eyewitnesses after this attack Karroubi’s turban fell down and the attackers were trying to beat him. Following this event, Karroubi’s followers escorted him outside to prevent any abuse by the outlaws against the Green movement.

Green Media Fair

It seems as if the Green Movement has taken over a media fair that had taken place in Tehran. Here are some videos:

The Status of Prisoners

Here is a good summary of the conditions and sentences of the various political prisoners held in Iran since the election:

They are crushing the younger activists. Shahabeddin Tabatabie is getting five years in prison, while Masoud Bastani is getting six.

They are shutting out any possibility of a viable youth movement with this. Maybe the youth will not care, but they are doing their best to silence them. If the price is too high, many will be hesitant to speak out. Shahabeddin Tabatabaie has done NOTHING but actively participate in and organize for Mousavi’s youth campaign.

Hedayat Aghaie has been sentenced to five years in prison.

A deputy of Tehran’s prosecutor general met with Behzad Nabavi in the hospital yesterday and said: “he should remain in the hospital for now.” ! WTF? Since when does the judiciary handout medical advice?!

Saeed Hajjariyan: a five year suspended sentence (he will be imprisoned if he “repeats his crime”.)

As of two days ago, they’ve brought some of the political activists out of solitary confinement and placed them in bigger prison cells. Mohsen Mirdamadi, Abdollah Ramezanzadeh and Feyzollah Arabsorkhi are together. Mostafa Tajzadeh and Mohsen Aminzadeh are together. Farahani, Abtahi, Atriyanfar and Saeed Shariati are no longer in solitary confinement either. But the rest, including Ahmad Zeydabadi, Saeed Leylaz, Abdollah Momeni and Davod Soleymani are.

Not much is known about Ghouchani, Bahman Ahmadi Amooyi, and Keyvan Samimi.

And not much about the younger prisoners either: Ali Pirhosseinloo, Mehdi Shirzad, Mehdi Mahmoudian, Hossein Naimipour.

Those prisoners who have been brought out of solitary confinement can see their families on a more regular basis and the meetings are easier than before. This means that these prisoners know of what is going on outside and they [the judiciary, whoever the heck is holding them hostage] knows that it can’t break their will anymore than it has. They will sentence them each to a few years in prison and wait to see how things go until the prisoners appeal.

But the rest have not even gotten a chance to see their families. Until a few days ago, Zeydabadi and Momeni had not seen anyone for a month.

Can anyone detect a pattern here? Is this all random? I would think not. Why release Jalayipour who was in the youth campaign as well? (because his dad has more connections?) But they’ve also released Emad Bahavar. Why them and not the others? What’s their release&hold strategy?

Listen to Shadi Sadr’s interview if you haven’t already (and if you understand Persian.) She said that they did not physically hurt her, but for days, she was blindfolded and forced to listen to the brutal beating of a dozen or so youngsters who were beaten even harder if they let out a whimper.

UPDATE1

Tajbakhsh: 15 years in prison.

Zeydabadi: 7 years in prison.

I don’t know what to say about this. I’m just shocked.

UPDATE2

The news about Zeydabadi was a rumor. It has not yet been verified.

Tajbakhsh: 12+ years in prison. The exact number has not been announced.

Reformists Arrested During Prayer Session

This should give you an indication of who really is true to Islam and it is not the regime:

According to BBC Persian, security forces arrested an estimated 50-60 members of Iran’s Participation Front who were attending a Komeil Prayer session.

The prayer session was held at one of the relatives of Shahab Tabatabaei, a political prisoner who was arrested after the June election. One of the eyewitnesses reportedly saw three vans filled with detainees.

Shahab Tabatabaei, who was the head of Campaign 88 (Young supporters of Mousavi and Khatami), was recently sentenced to five years in prison.

Student Protests Continue

Today at Azad Univeristy:




Polytechnic University:

Karroubi Letter to Ayatollah Hamadani

Karroubi blasts Ayatollah Hamadani for not standing up with the people and generally wishes all the clergy will stand with the people:

I am writing this letter to discuss the recent interview you conducted with Maaref radio, which was also broadly cited in Kayhan [newspaper], I would like to amiably clarify certain points, prevent misunderstandings and defend the sanctity of Shi’a marjas. In this interview, you spoke in a way that was not appropriate or considerate of recent events. You also referred to the election and its aftermath and spoke at length about Kahrizak [detention center] as well as its critics. You proclaimed that these critics humiliated the establishment; you also asked them to repent.

Before all else, I affirm that you are one of the brightest instructors at the [Qom] seminary and have a long history of teaching experience. You were also one of the pioneers of the Islamic movement under the leadership of the late Imam and you have gone to great lengths for this, even enduring imprisonment and exile under the previous regime. You are acquainted with serving the revolution. You remained alongside the Imam in its early years, and you undertook certain tasks, like representing the Imam in Hamadan and leading the Friday prayers there. Now you are considered a marja and for all these efforts, god willing, you will be honored.

As you are well aware, throughout history, the great Shi’a scholars and marjas have been considered the trustees of religion, the guardians of justice and equality and a refuge for the oppressed. Moreover, they have issued fatwas and sentences that have always served as a protection for the people during difficult times. They supported the people when governments and rulers attempted to violate civil rights and, through these efforts, they have motivated the public belief in God. They have also defended the territorial integrity of the country.

The Shi’a ayatollahs and scholars are proud of this achievement. They have always fought foreign adversaries, and, in addition, have never bowed to domestic tyrants and oppressors. They have always defended the oppressed and the deprived.

As you well know, when the holy city of Najaf was attacked by outsiders and the late Ayatollah Kazem Yazdi was asked to leave for his own and his family’s safety, he replied: “The people of this city and of this country are my family and I ask for the safety of every last one of them. Mine and my family’s destiny is connected to theirs.”

The history of Shi’a marjas is filled with such stories and we see the greatest examples in the lives of people like Ayatollah Bahrololoum, Mirza Mohammad Taqi Shirazi and Imam Khomeini. We can go on at length about such individuals, in a large book. This is why the people have always remained faithful to them and have sometimes sacrificed their lives for a movement that was rooted in one fatwa or in one sentence given by one ayatollah. For example, a fatwa by the late Mirza Shirazi pertaining to the tobacco trade changed everything. The victory of the Islamic revolution, the fall of the monarchist regime and cutting off the hands of foreign adversaries was rooted in the leadership of Imam Khomeini and the support of the people. This is why the previous regime was so sensitive to his status as a marja.

With great regret, I must declare that your position over the last few years (and particularly after the tenth presidential election) has been far from the one taken by the pure lineage of Shi’a marjas. It has created doubts about the role of shia marjas and may be interpreted as giving a helping hand to powerful rulers. You are certainly clear of such allegations for now, but people may easily make these inferences which, in turn, will weaken their beliefs. I say this because during recent events – which can be considered a great calamity – not only did you fail to remain silent in the debates that took place between the government and the protesters, but you clearly took sides with those who have trodden on people’s rights.

The great Ayatollah [Hamadani] states: according to the law, four people were approved [as candidates] for the recent election and began competing for votes. In this process (and before millions of viewers), one of the candidates made inflammatory comments against the others and against state officials. At the same time, all government property was mobilized to support this one particular candidate – this round-up included many officials themselves. Moreover, the honorable members of the Guardian Council publicly broke the law by voicing their support. In addition, those who organized the election were among the vocal supporters of the very government [in power].As a result, the election process was damaged from the beginning and unprecedented violations took place on voting day. Even in the counting process, many rights were violated. Thus, the other candidates – and the voters themselves – were angered about the fact that their votes had been abused. They hit the streets suddenly and spontaneously, only demanding that their votes be returned. As I’ve said before, no specific political party or group had the ability to bring millions of people to the streets to peacefully demand their votes. It was actually the people who led the politicians. Aligning this movement with foreign adversaries merely provided an excuse for the violent suppression and mass imprisonment of political activists, journalists and friends of the revolution. It also aims to justify the purging of this nation’s youth, which participated in this election with much thought and planning; which put its votes into the ballot box with joy. [The government] spoke of law while easily stepping on it and unlawfully arresting both the populace and political figures. People who had asked for transparent investigations into the election [results] without resorting to harsh statements were attacked by armed military and paramilitary forces. A number of these people were injured and killed while others were imprisoned in illegal detention centers such as Kahrizak. There, they were abused, oppressed and subject to despicable acts that have humiliated and weakened Islam, the revolution and the Islamic Republic of Iran to the point where the highest officials have ordered such centers closed and the judiciary is investigating the guilty parties so that some level of prestige may be restored to the establishment.

In the midst of all of this and to my complete astonishment, I see that both in an article in Kayhan, dated October 12th, 2009, and in a meeting with the employees of Maaref Radio, you have declared that “those who have made accusations of election fraud as well as rape in Kahrizak have actually undermined the glory of the revolution … if [they] repent, it might be possible to integrate them [back into the system].” Given your reputation, such statements are astounding. In keeping with a tradition where the marjas have been a refuge for the oppressed, people expect you and others like you to restore their lost rights. A great number of marjas in Qom have attempted to be involved in this way by standing alongside a considerable majority of those who protested the election process. However, the more we reached out to you the more distant you were, until this moment. You have emerged not to condemn the tyrants, but the people. It would have been fitting for you to appoint someone to investigate these claims and to find the truth by directly contacting the victims and reporting to you with real documents. Then, you could have made an announcement based on their findings. You should not have dispensed both with tradition and with all political caution by publicly asking the protesters to repent,

You were one of the pupils of the honorable Imam and the honorable, departed Ayatollah Boroujerdi. You have been at the forefront of the revolution and among the great religious scholars and marjas of the nation. Do you know that your statements would pass as judgments? Based on the holy Sharia laws of the great prophet of Islam and on the religious guidelines of the Imam Sadegh (blessings be upon him) or on your own religious fatwa, is it even possible to make such a confident and final judgment when only one side of the story is known?

I stand on one side of this affair. You are aware of the responsibilities that I bear on behalf of Imam [Khomeini] and the people. You are also aware that I was a faithful follower of the honorable Imam (may the mercy of God be upon him). The second claimant, who was once prime minister and who is also a faithful follower of the Imam, was head of the country’s affairs during the eight years of the holy defence [Iran-Iraq war]. The third candidate was head of the Revolutionary Guards during the holy defence and also has the unique experience of taking part in armed campaigns and operating at highly ranked managerial levels. Wouldn’t it have been better and more consistent with the foundations of holy Islam if you, a marja, had consulted either one of us to hear our side of the story given that you had no access to external data? Maybe this way, people would not have said that some of the great religious scholars are indifferent towards the destiny of ordinary Muslims.

Do not voice your opinions while lacking information so that people can rebuild their trust in the scholars of Islam, who they deem to be safe-keepers of their religion, honor, dignity.

To conclude, I ask God to bestow health upon you and the other Islamic marjas.

Neda's Mother Speaks

Here is an interview in Farsi with the mother of the famous martyr Neda:




Here is how Mousavi's Facebook summarized what has happened:

Few days ago Zaribafan, Head of the Office of Veteran Affairs of Tehran, in an interview said that if family of Neda Agha-Soltan (the young girl who was shot and killed by basij during one of the peaceful protests) accept that their daughter was killed by the “conspiracy of the enemies” (i.e. foreigners) then they would be covered by Office of Veteran Affairs and would receive benefits and monthly payments. In an interview with VOA, Neda’s mother stressed that they would never accept that their daughter was killed by “conspiracy of the enemies” to receive benefits and monthly payments! She said that their daughter, like Sohrab and other Martyrs of Green movement, was martyred for freedom and what is important for them is that Neda is loved and honoured by the people of Iran and they are proud of this.

Mousavi Interview

Here is the video of Mousavi's first video interview since the election. It is in Farsi, but a translation is provided below the video:

Explaining the “National Unity” plan

This phrase has been used in media in different ways and it is good to separate them from each other. In the meeting that I had with the members of the minority fraction (reformist) of the parliament, I discussed the issue of “National Unity”. In that discussion my intention to use this phrase was more in a sense of a public will that has been strengthened during the election campaign based on our heritage and old civilization and common national interests and the message of a better future and prosperity and progress of our country, so the issue of “National Unity” was important in that regards; and we all witnessed the enthusiasm that had been created in the country regarding this issue.

I believe that even after the post-election events, this asset (National Unity) should still be preserved and we should try to strengthen it. National Unity is extremely important to all of us and we all must focus on it. In this case the interpretation of Unity, is the unity among all people of all classes; unity between intellectuals, students, different ethnic and cultural groups.

During the election campaign the human chain that connected North of Tehran to South of Tehran was one of the best aspects of National Unity among all classes of people who had participated in that event, and this has created a wave all over the country and according to such a picture the idea of “Green Path of Hope” was shaped.

However besides this case “National Unity” has been used with different meanings and after the recent events that happened in the country which we all are very well aware of them, a number of individuals with different intentions and some with good intentions have been trying to find a way to lower the tension between the political figures by dialogue and discussions. There is a proposal by Ayatollah Hashemi-Rafsanjani; also there were discussions that Ayatollah Mahdavi-Kani also has ideas about this issue and generally different individuals have been commenting regarding this issue. What is important is that I have not commented on this issue yet.

However considering the rumors that are spreading regarding the discussions in this matter, I have a memory from Imam [Khomeini] that I quote; and there is a point in this memory that I will act according to that point. During McFarlane story (Iran-Contra affair), which caused a crisis and people did not know if McFarlane had come to Iran or what had happened, whether he had come to Iran secretly and had returned [to US]. This issue was first reported by a Syrian newspaper and in the debate among the heads of the three branched of the government it had been mentioned that this case would have been drawn into the country and given the sensitivity about the issue of relations to US and talking with US, it would have been apparent that it could have caused a crisis in the country, so the heads of the three branches of the government and I went to Imam [Khomeini] and asked for his advice. When the case was explained to Imam Khomeini on how and why, and with what group this person had come and left, and what was the outcome of his trip and it was also mentioned that this case had been reported by a Lebanese or Syrian newspaper and would have been drown inside the country as well; Imam said: “go and let the people know about this issue, people should be informed” and also discussed this issue a bit. When we were leaving, Imam Khomeini added a sentence that I have always remembered in my mind as a golden and important sentence. He said: “never do such that you won’t be able to explain it to people.” and I have remembered this in my mind. Therefore if there is going to be any talk, discussion, debate or issue, naturally as a companion of this great movement, I will share it with the people and it won’t be such that I cannot defend it. It would be wise that regarding this matter or similar cases, given the incompetence of the domestic media and the fact that they are working against the Green Path of Hope, and that we don’t have a conventional media and all of our media have been restricted, people be vigilant on which media is spreading these news by considering their direction and their party affiliation and their possible intensions. This can help us to move in a thoughtful atmosphere that is according to our own values.

Explaining whether you have been contacted or visited regarding this issue

No, there have been no such discussions. However I am aware of Ayatollah Hashemi-Rafsanajani’s proposal that he had mentioned during the Friday Prayer as well as the suggestions that some of the members of the Expediency Council shared with him; and also through media, I am aware of the remarks that are claimed to be made by Ayatollah Mahdavi-Kani and others. Also I sometimes have witnessed that others with good intentions have raised such issues, but there has been no direct contact with me regarding this and there has been no correspondence and no official talks. In general nothing has been done regarding this issue.

In the 13th statement you have mentioned that we must embed our socio-political achievements into our lives and into our struggle. You had a sentence: “we must live the green path of hope.” Although this is very elegant phrase, it may come across as ambiguous in some case, can you elaborate on that?

Our nation has started a massive movement and we are involved in it too. Hopefully [if God is willing] I will continue toward this very direction that people are marching on. If we look carefully, early on when these incidents happened in the country, there were discussion on how to move, and what should our response be so that we can benefit from big achievements of the elections and the Islamic revolution and continue it. There were discussions on creation of parties, or fronts, or other groups all within the frameworks of political campaigns inside the country or as they are defined internationally. We thought that none of these can fulfill our goals and purposes. We saw that none of these constructs were coherent with the experiences that we had prior to the election, and of course the [same] experiences that we had together.

In this election, we saw that families, political, religious, artistic, cultural groups, and in general anyone anywhere according to their own methodology and capability helped out and entered the movement. In fact this was a continuation of our discussions earlier that every citizen would ‘stand as a campaign headquarters’. An action like that led to a national network. Actually, it was this very phenomenon that was the source of strength for this movement. The movement did not get its power from a political party. This does not mean that parties were not influential, or will not have an affect. No. Parties would always maintain their own standing, and their position is of key importance and will remain a necessity. They must continue with their own activities. However, we thought to continue on this path, and to achieve our goals and ideals under the banner of “advance Iran”, and to fulfill people’s demands, and achieving the full realization people’s rights, we must continue on under something much more inclusive and encompassing [from a single party] specially under the knowledge from the experiences [of unity] prior to the elections. And we did continue in such a manner and we announced it too.

In such a perspective it is unimportant how much every person can contribute, or how they contribute. The important thing is that there will be a national will that would remain. From only one person in one family, to large parties and political groups and fronts with experience, everyone would be able to send help to this massive movement in the framework of their own daily activities. I have always believed that a even a blind person, an old woman, old man, or someone who cannot possibly attend any of political activities, if from the corner of their own homes they send a prayer, we can consider it as an activity inside this network, let alone all the organized activism of large political groups.

Today we stand witness to a unique and exeptional blooming of creativity among our artistic groups. None of these belong to a movement of a party. Instead they belong to a large social network. We have numerous clips, and anthems were created not to mention countless paintings, drawings and cartoons. The extent of the flow of this creativity is not comparable to any period of our history. These are the bulk and the essence of the movement. These are what create the content of dialogues of this huge wave and this massive movement. They guide it and push it forward. This does not happen in a framework of party or any one political front. At times, two or three artists come together, or in larger or smaller groups, on corners of our country and even outside of our country, they have come together to send their help. There are joined by religious groups, religious gatherings, charity organizations and other political groups.

In fact here, the struggle has become a way of life, a life that continues and is unstoppable. It is not the case that you can constrain it at a point. As a result this movement is a movement that cannot be harmed. In an environment of collective dialogue and discussion these movements would be ever more encouraged and push themselves forward. In this regards, the media are of key importance. The labor that people pull in our media is honorable and much appreciated. Here, I emphasize yet again that considering that we do not have any media at all, we must pay more attention to such means and tools [of communication], and benefit more from them. This is a miracle that we have seen during and after the elections, and considering our current situation we must take advantage of such tools. Naturally, we are connecting the individual and the social environments through the media and all the while we are creating a enormous movement with large span, and a long range.

The fact is that this movement does not belong to any one small group, party or political current, neither does it follow a specific detail oriented struggle nor is it a fully oppositional movement. This movement is one that is a current that is blended into dreams, ideals, and style of lives of our own people. That is why it is very sustainable.

We want get inspiration from readings of Quron that say: “Make your own homes a Kaaba” (Kaaba: All Muslims around the world face the Kaaba during prayers, no matter where they are.) It must be that people in referring to this expansive social network, in their own large and small groups, each contribute their own share to the movement, so that the movement can maintain shape and continue.

How can we find a solution to the crisis?

Until we accept that we have a problem and are in a crisis, until the larger group of majority of people is labeled as disturbance, until people are not counted in the equations [of power] and until the rights of people to determine their own destinies is not accepted, we can not find a universal solution to our problem.

For this reason our national unity, as I referred to it in second meaning that I introduced earlier, which contains the activities, the groups and crowds of people. In this regards that these gatherings are with good intentions I think it is necessary that in every movement people be respected, that majority is not alienated. People are together, even those of them who have different views, it is us who analyze them and impose the differences. Unfortunately we separate the people from on another. The maxim here is that people should be respected. Their perspectives and ideas should be accepted. We must return to these fundamental rules. We must rely on the fundamental that we must return to the constitution and we must insist on fundamental that: "governance of people over their own destinies." Only then we can easily find a solution to this problem.

Regime Blames Attack on US

Following an attack that killed several people in Baluchistan, the regime quickly blamed the US. While the attackers might be Sunni extremists, the regime is obviously going to blame anything on outside forces. Moreover given this regime's lies, it is difficult to know if the attack was carried out by the regime itself:

A man carrying explosives blew himself up as participants headed to a conference between Shiite and Sunni groups in southeastern Iran on Sunday, killing at least 29 people.

The blast in Sarbaz in the province of Sistan-Baluchistan wounded 28 others, the semiofficial Fars news agency said.

While no one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, Iran pointed the finger at the United States without disclosing its reasons.

"We consider this recent terrorist act to be the result of the U.S. actions and this is a sign of their enmity," said parliament Speaker Ali Larijani.

A U.S. State Department spokesman said the accusation was "completely false."

"We condemn this act of terrorism and mourn the loss of innocent lives. Reports of alleged U.S. involvement are completely false," Ian Kelly told CNN.

Khatami and Mousavi Meet

Here is what happened,

Mir Hossein Mousavi and Seyyed Mohammad Khatami met with each other. In this meeting while emphasising on firm adherence to the constitution, the pure values of the Revolution and defending the Islamic Republic; they expressed deep concerns over the continuation of the current horrible situation especially the recent arrests, restriction of the fundamental freedoms which is contrary to the constitution and Islamic and moral values, increase of unethical behaviours and insults and false accusations, and the denial of the rights of those who have been attacked to respond and defend themselves.They stated that the current situation is first and most damaging the Revolution, the people and the country.

They also emphasised that our mature and vigilant people who especially because of the Islamic Revolution have found their path to justice, freedom, independence and prosperity, will not deviate from their path by force and pressure; and the devotees of the Revolution, Imam and the greatness of Iran and Iranians, despite all problems and threats will not abandon their holy and national duty. What today is needed more than anything else is the returning to the constitution and avoiding contradicting or distorting it or unduly justifying against this great national covenant; and if the means of evaluating and commenting on the policies and the actions [of the authorities] are shut for those that there is no doubt regarding their devotion and loyalty to the Islamic Republic and the greatness and independence of the homeland, if the civil protests and presence of people is confronted and if the official platforms and media that should serve the values of the revolution and interests of the society taint the environment more by fraud, forgery, spreading lies and insulting and degrading others.

Surely this will be the best opportunity for those movements that are against the principal values of the Revolution and establishment to become active. It is in the future interest of the country to open up the current militarised environment and that the national media and press can practice their duties immediately.

Montazeri Speaks About Nuclear Weapons

Responding to a question by his pupil Mohsen Kadivar about nuclear weapons, Montazeri denounces them. This according to Mousavi's Facebook,

"Grand Ayatollah Montazeri’s answer to the question by Mohsen Kadivar regarding the use of nuclear weapons: Weapons if are not only used against the invading forces but rather victimise innocent people, even the future generations, logically and relig...iously are not allowed and given the vast extent of killing and destruction by nuclear weapons they cannot be considered acceptable by the reasoning of the importance or criticality of another issue and in all cases the humanity and especially Muslims who are the followers of the teachings of the great Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) should be pioneers on the path to legally and practically ban such weapons for all countries with the assurance from the credible and trustworthy international organisations."

Montazeri Remarks

According to Mousavi's Facebook, here are Montazeri's latest remarks:

Grand Ayatollah Montazeri in his latest remarks while stating the fact that one of the nastiest characteristics of human is “cruelty” pointed out the cruelty of some who are ignorant to the violation of people’s rights. Regarding the armed forces (Army, Basij and Revolutionary Guards) he said that: some think that because they have guns they should exercise the power of their guns and use it everywhere. In any society that wants to be obedient, its armed forces should not be cruel but rather be compassionate and merciful. He added that in armed forces there are only a handful of those who have no mercy and kindness but even this little number have jeopardised the integrity and dignity of others by committing the horrific crime in Kahrizah prison (where detainees were tortured and some even killed) in the events after the election.

Grand Ayatollah Montazeri while referring to those who claim to be acting according to the ideas of Imam Khomeini continued: “There is a remark made by Grand Ayatollah Khomeini that is rightfully very famous and it is that the armed forces should not get engaged in the politics and the reason behind it is also that since they are armed they may exploit their military forces and intimidate people for political reasons. The fact that these armed forces just like anyone else are entitled to the citizenship rights is correct and when there is an election held they too have the right to vote but it is wrong if they want to control the political scene like in an election. The gentlemen who constantly talk of Imam Khomeini and following his guidelines should be told: “Didn’t Imam Khomeini forbid the armed forces from engaging in politics?”

He added that a country should have skilled armed forces to deal with the enemies and those who lay hand on the country and the establishment but the military, police and security forces should not act in a way that people get negative impression about them and people should feel safe when they see them and don’t say that the armed forces and the police confront them instead of dealing with the enemies, instead of protecting the country and guarding the establishment they are after repressing the people and that the public should be afraid of them.

He reinstated that, the remark that is being made a lot lately is that preserving the system is a holy duty. Preserving the system is not a natural must in itself. It means that if the Islamic laws are abandoned in order to preserve the Islamic system, the system will not be preserved. Preserving the system is the precondition of preserving and executing the Islamic laws. If, un-Islamic actions take place with the excuse of preserving the system then neither the system will remain nor Islam.

Weren’t the primary slogans of the Revolution “Independence, Freedom, and Islamic Republic”? Independence means not being under the control of foreigners; and Freedom means that people should be free to express their opinion and have freedom of speech; not that be arrested and imprisoned the moment they express any opinion in opposition [to the government] and the situation gets so bad that people say we have freedom of speech but no freedom after the speech and we will be thrown into Evin prison! Republic also means that the government should be formed according to the people’s votes; and Islamic means since people are Muslims, the government should be based on the Islamic principles.

Are Arrests Coming?

Mousavi's Facebook has a ominous post about possible arrests of Green Movement leaders:

Reminder: In case of the arrest of any of the Green movement’s leaders, we will take to the streets from “Revolution” to “Freedom”. The Network media mobilization for raising widespread awareness until the emergence of the Green army (SMS, email, bill, Wall, poster, Internet).

Video of Protests

Here is a clip of some of the protests recently as Azad Univerisity in Tehran, more can be found here.

Student Protests Continue

According to Mousavi's Facebook:

For the third consecutive week, today (Oct 13, 2009) more than 2000 students of Tehran’s Azad University held a gathering in protest to the coup government and treatment of student activist. The students we chanting “Death to dictator”, “God is great...”, “Coup government, resign..resign” , “Ya Hossein, Mir Hossein” and similar Green slogans in protest. There are reports that around 100 Basiji forces that were brought to the University by two buses violently attacked the students with batons and tear gas and even locked up one of the students in the office of the representative of the Supreme Leader in this university. According to this report the students have been resisting these attacks and have been chanting slogans in university’s lobby and different floors.

Pressure Builds on Karroubi

Reports are coming out that there is pressure to prosecute Karroubi for his noble efforts to bring attention to prisoner abuse:

Iranian pro-reform cleric Mehdi Karroubi may be prosecuted over allegations he made following post-election unrest, state media says.

Mr Karroubi had said that some of his supporters, detained after protests over the presidential poll in which he was a candidate, suffered abuse.

The case will go to a clerical court, state news agency Irna reported.

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was declared the winner but his challengers said the election was rigged.

Tehran prosecutor Abbas Jafari-Dolatabadi said that as Mr Karroubi was a cleric "his remarks should be studied at the special court for the clergy".

"But the report of the judiciary panel has been given to us and we are investigating it," he said.

"Some people have also been summoned in connection with the case."

Mohsen Makhmalbaf Dedicates Award to Karroubi

From Mousavi's Facebook:

Mohsen Makhmalbaf, prominent Iranian filmmaker, dedicated the major Nuremberg Human Rights Festival's award that was presented to him, to Mehdi Karoubi. While accepting his award in this ceremony, he said: “Giving and receiving awards in today’s world should be turned into a kind of democratic struggle. I dedicate my award to the great man who with bravery revealed the rapes in Iran’s prisons. Many Iranians have suggested nominating him for the next year Nobel Peace Prize. In a society that tyranny rules by creating fear, he is pushing back the boundaries of this fear with his courage. The name of this person is Karoubi. More than thirty years ago, he and I were being tortured in Shah’s prisons and he was just as brave those days too. Karoubi in the past thirty year has defended human rights in any positions he has had and any imprisoned and oppressed Iranian remembers his supports. He is thousands of times more deserving than me for receiving this award.”

More Death Sentences

The regime is stepping up the death sentences in a new phase of horror:

A court has sentenced three people to death over street unrest that erupted after Iran's disputed election in June and links to exiled opposition groups, an Iranian news agency reported Saturday.

ISNA news agency, citing the head of the publication relations office of Tehran provincial court, did not identify those condemned, giving only their initials.

It was the first official statement of death sentences in connection with the presidential poll, which the opposition says was rigged to secure hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's re-election, and the huge opposition protests that followed.

The authorities have rejected vote fraud charges and portrayed the protests as a foreign-backed bid to undermine the Islamic Republic.

"The execution sentences were handed down because of involvement in post-election developments and affiliation with the Iran monarchical association and the PMOI," the official, Zahid Bashiri-Rad, said.

"These sentences are not final and can be appealed in a higher court," he said.

The People's Mujahideen Organization of Iran (PMOI) is an exiled opposition organization, seen by both Iran and the United States as a terrorist group.

One of the initials given by ISNA matches that of Mohammad-Reza Ali-Zamani, whom the reformist Mowjcamp website on Thursday said had been sentenced to death.

A semi-official news agency, Mehr, said in August he was accused of fighting against the Islamic establishment and active membership of a "terrorist" royalist association, and other crimes.

Amnesty International has urged Iran to rescind the death sentence against the 37-year-old, saying in a statement on Friday it feared it would "pave the way for more death sentences against those being tried on similar offences."

Ali-Zamani was among more than 100 opposition supporters, including senior reformist figures, who were accused in a series of mass trials that got under way in August of fomenting post-election street unrest.

Mowjcamp said Ali-Zamani had made "extensive confessions" during his trial. Reformist politicians have condemned the court sessions as "show trials."

Reformist former President Mohammad Khatami, who backed opposition leader Mirhossein Mousavi in the election, has said confessions made at the trials were obtained under "extraordinary conditions" and were invalid.

Analysts see the mass trials as an attempt by the authorities to uproot the moderate opposition.