Fri, 29 Mar 2024 Today's Paper

“America, West interfering in internal problems of Iran” Iranian Ambassador Hashem Ashjazadeh in conversation with the Daily Mirror sheds light on the current civil protests in Iran

22 November 2022 12:05 am - 22     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A A A

File photo: On August 19, 1953 Massive protests broke out across Iran, leaving almost 300 dead in firefights in the streets of Tehran. Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh was soon overthrown in a coup orchestrated by the CIA and British intelligence. The Shah was reinstalled as Iran’s leader (AFP).   

The Islamic revolution in Iran, in 1979 saw the overthrow of the US and British-backed Shah (Monarch). Since its founding, the Islamic Republic of Iran has been in conflict with the US and Britain.  


The Shah was installed in a 1953 coup orchestrated by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in the aftermath of Iran’s then-elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh’s nationalisation of Iran’s oil industry.   
Britain which had controlled Iran’s oil resources appealed to the US and the CIA orchestrated a coup via bribing media institutes, planting false propaganda against the PM and recruiting unscrupulous members of the clergy to stir dissent.  


Following the coup, Mossadegh was arrested, placed on trial and spent the rest of his life under house arrest. The Shah was enthroned and ruled until 1979 when he was overthrown by the Islamic Revolution.   
On 19 August 2013, the CIA publicly admitted for the first time its involvement in the 1953 coup.  


Since the overthrow of the Shah and the holding of US nationals hostage, the US has never forgiven Iran and its people for the humiliation it suffered.   


Having deposed of the Shah, Iran’s government has followed a unique principle of “Governorship” or legal guardianship under the Sharia (A set of Islamic religious laws that govern aspects of day-to-day life for Muslims).   
The 1979 Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, made the “Guardian” the Supreme Leader of Iran. Ayatollah Khomeini was the first Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic.   


Subsequently, the US imposed unilateral sanctions on Iran and its people. The sanctions put restrictions on foreign trade, financial services, energy sectors and technologies and include a ban on the provision of insurance and reinsurance by the EU insurers to the State of Iran and Iranian-owned companies.  


In the wake of US sanctions, IMF estimates suggest Iran fell into a trade deficit of $3.45 billion in 2020. The country had a trade surplus of $6.11 billion in 2019, according to the IMF. A report by Abbas Kebriaeezadeh, Professor of Pharmacology at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, found that US sanctions “are killing cancer patients in Iran” indirectly, creating dire drug shortages and skyrocketing prices.  


Despite the weight of sanctions and multiple difficulties heaped on them, however, the Iranian people stood with their Government against the wiles and snares of the US.  


Today, over 40 years after the revolution which overthrew the Shah, Iran is once again faced with turmoil. The ongoing unrest is the first major upheaval since the Iranian Revolution and this time around Iranians have taken to the streets over the controversial death in custody of a young woman -Mahsa Amini.  


Ms Amini was initially taken into custody by Iran’s morality police for allegedly wearing an improper hijab.   
The Police claimed her death was a result of a pre-existing condition. But, her family challenged the findings into her death. They charged that her death was a result of Ms Amini being beaten.   


On 1 November, state-aligned news agency ISNA revealed 315 protestors had been indicted in Teheran and more than 700 others had been charged in the provinces.As the controversy continues to rage, the Daily Mirror spoke to Hashem Ashjazadeh Ambassador of Iran in Lanka regarding ongoing protests and the death in custody of the young woman who had apparently been killed for not wearing a prescribed article of clothing.  


“The unfortunate passing of Mahsa Amini while in Police custody’ Ambassador Ashjazadeh said was bitter and painful news to all Iranians.   


In the aftermath, of the young woman’s death, the President himself demanded a special investigation and immediate judicial inquiry into the issue. He even telephoned Mahsa Amini’s family condoled with them and promised an inquiry.  


Unfortunately, however, the peaceful protests against this crime were hijacked by foreign-backed groups who resorted to violence with the aim of destabilising the country.  
Several incidents of shootings took place. Terrorist groups with established links to foreign countries carried out acts of violence, aggravating the problem.They insidiously changed the direction of a legitimate civil protest towards interventionist agendas.   


There is a distinction between civil protest and organized violence. What we are witnessing today is violence targeting innocent civilians and public property. 

Excerpts from the interview:  


QAre you saying the protestors were guided into attacking Government buildings and those opposed to the demonstrations by agents of a particular country? Can you please clarify, by mentioning particular incidents?


Many of the gatherings/protests which took place in the wake of the unfortunate death of Ms Amini in different parts of the country were peaceful.  


But in some areas, violence broke out causing anxiety and destruction. In my opinion, these acts are reminiscent of the events instigated by the American CIA which took place prior to the coup which toppled the Government of then-Premier Mossadegh   


I am convinced, based on facts on the ground, these acts of violence were instigated by the US.  
The US and some Western countries have again started to interfere in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran by supporting these rioters.  


Other external actors -foreign-sponsored terrorist groups also direct their agents to incite individuals to participate in violent disturbances. Websites and foreign TV networks broadcasting in ‘Farsi’ also contributed- to inciting youth and people to indulge in acts of violence.  


During the protests which degenerated into rioting and violence, some individuals affiliated with terrorist groups, and sections of the media backed by foreign countries resorted to violent acts damaging public and private properties and even against civilians who disagreed with them, as well as against the police force by instigating people to violence. In some instances, they trained them in the use of use firearms and other incendiary materials.   
QWhat makes you say a foreign hand was involved in the protests? Could you also explain the nature of the acts of arson, loss of life and injuries? Finally, what type of weapons did some of the protestors use?

 
By and large, from media reports circulating, the protestors did not have weapons. What is your response to these charges? 


During these terrifying riots, many public and private properties were set on fire or looted. Some law enforcement agents and ordinary people lost their lives or were injured by weapons used by the rioters.


QYou mentioned websites and foreign TV networks broadcasting in Farsi used to incite young people. Could you specifically name some of these sites and particular foreign TV networks? 


BBC Persian, VOA, Iran International and Manoto, are some of the main foreign TV Networks  


QWhat makes you say that there was foreign intervention in the outbreak of protests?


As peaceful civil protests were underway, hostile states’ actors guided civil protests towards insurrectionist violence aiming at destabilizing our country.   


The shootings carried out by separatist terror organizations who infiltrated the peaceful protest movement are known to have links with hostile foreign powers which complicated matters.   


There is a distinction between civil protest and organized terrorism or any other forms of violence that target innocent civilians and public property. 

 
Most gatherings which took place in the wake of the death of Ms Amini in different parts of the country were peaceful.   


Soon America and some Western powers began interfering in what was essentially an internal problem in Iran, supporting groups bent on rioting and taking violent action.   


Other external actors, such as armed militant groups, instigated demonstrators into violent actions providing them with weapons, and incendiary materials, attacking public buildings, creating roadblocks, preventing the movement of vehicular traffic and attacking the forces of law and order.  


Websites and foreign TV networks broadcasting in Farsi also played a significant role in inciting demonstrators to violence.   


QCould you specify some of the violent acts against public/State property?


During the rioting, public and private properties were set on fire or looted. A few law enforcement agents and bystanders lost their lives or were injured by armed rioters. Public services such as banks, ATMs, and ambulances (including those transferring patients) were attacked. Public transport, police cars, fire engines and religious places were also subject to organised attacks. A number of them were reduced to ashes.  


In Iran, we recognise the right of people to protest peacefully. Unfortunately, the involvement of foreign powers changed the direction of peaceful protests, leading to death and destruction. 

 
We well remember how, on August 19, 1953, street protests organized and financed by the CIA overthrew Mossadeq and installed the Shah as head of Iran.  


The Shah who fled the country when the initial coup failed, immediately returned to the country, took power and to show his gratitude signed over 40 per cent of Iran’s oil fields to U.S. companies.   


The infiltration of the present street protests and the ongoing violence is a continuation of America’s efforts to destabilise Iran, install another puppet regime and take control of Iran’s oil resources.  

 


Order Gifts and Flowers to Sri Lanka. See Kapruka's top selling online shopping categories such as Toys, Grocery, Kids Toys, Birthday Cakes, Fruits, Chocolates, Clothing and Electronics. Also see Kapruka's unique online services such as Money Remittence,Astrology, Courier/Delivery, Medicine Delivery and over 700 top brands. Also get products from Amazon & Ebay via Kapruka Gloabal Shop into Sri Lanka

  Comments - 22

Order Gifts and Flowers to Sri Lanka. See Kapruka's top selling online shopping categories such as Toys, Grocery, Kids Toys, Birthday Cakes, Fruits, Chocolates, Clothing and Electronics. Also see Kapruka's unique online services such as Money Remittence,Astrology, Courier/Delivery, Medicine Delivery and over 700 top brands. Also get products from Amazon & Ebay via Kapruka Gloabal Shop into Sri Lanka
  • Kumar Tuesday, 22 November 2022 03:06 AM

    So it is okay.for Irainias send drones Russis to destroy Ukersine. What is good for the goose good.for the gender. I can imagine Sri Lanka supporting a murderous regime for benefit. It is sickening to read the article.

    M Fernando Wednesday, 23 November 2022 12:19 AM

    Yes it is.. you have forgotten that the US is the main and first instigator of all these troubles in the Middle East in their unending pursuit of oil

    Sokrates Tuesday, 22 November 2022 11:12 AM

    It shows very clearly how the Iranian people stand by their Mullah regime when the Iranian football team in Qatar does not sing the Iranian national anthem before the match. Like all dictatorial regimes worldwide, the Iranian regime also lies, saying that protests against the human rights-violating regime are being carried out by foreign-controlled terrorist groups. The fanatical Muslim mullahs' regime has unarmed crowds of people fired on with rifle salvos, most of which are aimed. Thousands of people have been killed since the protests began. Detainees are sentenced to death every day. This is the truth about Iran and not the Iranian Ambassador's lying propaganda. Due to the Iranian regime's barbaric and escalating violent crimes, many democratic countries have rightly tightened sanctions against this rogue state.

    Gert Jan, The Netherlands Tuesday, 22 November 2022 08:04 PM

    Very brave of the Iranian footballteam! They have so much more to lose than we in our safe country. The cowardly Dutch football association forbid the teamcaptain to wear the one-love strap. Because the FIFA would have punished him immediately with a yellow card.

    Ibrahim Cassim Tuesday, 22 November 2022 11:21 AM

    It’s about time other countries interfere in Iran’s internal affairs. Iran is a totalitarian dictatorship just like in Sri Lanka. Hope Israel will kick their asses soon .

    Gert Jan, the Netherlands Wednesday, 23 November 2022 10:26 AM

    Do not lie mr. Ashjazadeh.The hundreds of civilian peaceful demonstrators are killed by the Iranian regime. Even children are murdered by the Islamic Guard Corps. In fact Biden does not want to interfere because the West needs the Iranian sources. Despite Bidens promises in his speech on 4th November.

    Gert Jan, the Netherlands Wednesday, 23 November 2022 04:58 PM

    Do not lie, mr Ashjazadeh. The Iranian law enforcement did murder those peaceful demonstrators. Even killed children. Mr. Biden does not interfere because the West needs the Iranian sources. I agree: the West has no backbone

    Kinglsy De Silva Thursday, 24 November 2022 09:56 AM

    Mr Fernando is quite right. Most of the World's problem, including the crisis in Iran arises through American interference.

    firdhous Thursday, 24 November 2022 10:42 AM

    This is a kind and friendly message to a neighboring country with has ancient historical value that to be moderate in it political policies and political stance. If don’t have idea how, just look at the time of the King Akbar the great in India. It was his policies helped to make such a great India by his time. And the Akbar has a lineage and link with Iran also a fact. So there is a need for a U turn in political policies leaving the individuals to practice their freedom of beliefs and practices.

    Ajit Friday, 25 November 2022 02:50 AM

    Yes, even if the Iranian leader is Constipated, it is a devious plan of the west. Come on time to grow up

    Habeeb Mohamed Friday, 25 November 2022 11:17 PM

    Thank you ambassador for a very candid interview to put the record straight and for exposing the embedded spin doctors, outright lies about the engineered and infiltrated Iranian protests.

    don Saturday, 26 November 2022 10:47 AM

    do all the out dated prehistoric barbaric ritulas under the name of a mad man and then blame US and West for all your stupidity Why you Muslim men do not ahve a brain to think other than to blindy follow something that someone was suppsoed to have said

    sunil Saturday, 26 November 2022 10:51 AM

    all those peopel all over the world who shout and protest at teh drop of a hat in support of Palestine- soem don't even know where the state is and what the problem is-But not a single Islamic nation has come out against this cowrdly terropsit act of Iran- Shame on you peole calling yoursleves Relogion of peace

    German Saturday, 26 November 2022 04:22 PM

    #Habeeb Mohamed : my Iranian friends here in Bonn are getting the firsthand news from their connections in Iran. They are devistated that the Iranian ambassador is provided a stage in the Daily Mirror spreading this fake news propaganda. I guess there are not a lot of Iranians living in Sri Lanka.

    Kumar Tuesday, 29 November 2022 10:56 PM

    Watch US against Iran world cup match. Time to duke it out in the field.

    U S Citizen Wednesday, 30 November 2022 12:14 PM

    Reply to Kumar: the Iranian team refused to sing the anthem. Cowardly US did not make a statement at all so far. I am sad the US won the match.

    Kumar Wednesday, 30 November 2022 10:53 PM

    Can you be specific. One thing for sure the Iranian security must have collected pictures of the women not covering their hair to deal with them later. Why do these rules apply only to women?

    Punchi Thursday, 01 December 2022 06:58 AM

    Ask the ambassador why Iranians along with Iraqis Syrians, Afghans and Pakistani are in the top 5 fleeing their Islamic Paradises, illegally crossing the English Channel to get into Christian civilised whitemans England. There is no traffic of a similar nature in the other direction

    Sammy Cooper Wednesday, 14 December 2022 12:06 PM

    Sadly a lot of misunderstandings. Not surprising coming from people living in developing countries. The tragic incidents taking place in Iran are due to the myopic policies of the Iranian state and the narrow mindedness of the Iranian people. Time and time again people from Developing Countries keep complaining about either the USA or other Western Countries trying to destabilize them and steal their resources. While the bigger problem is the corruption of the elected, if elected, representatives and leadership of these developing countries.

    Kumar Monday, 26 December 2022 08:49 AM

    It appears that the technology for the drones came from the US and the driver came from Europe. Now the US is plugging that hole, drone attacks may end. Every time Russia loses a plane a helicopter or fire a missile, they have to build replacements, and train crews at a price.

    Shera Tuesday, 27 December 2022 08:03 PM

    Ask the Iranians who live in the west and the USA why they have fled their country. Your internal issues brought about suffering and oppression to your own people making it unbearable to live in their land, due to your own Islamic revolution. The western nations and USA have become the saving grace to the people of Islamic nations who apply primitive, twisted doctrine in the name of God. You don't find Islamic countries helping or defending the rights of Iranians, Afghans and the like. Fellow Muslims never speak out or speak up against the oppressors of their own brethren. There is more compassion and generosity from the very countries you blame for your internal issues. It is the easy way to see things; point fingers at someone else rather than take accountability for a problem that you fail to fix on your own.

    Hypocrisy and Exceptionalism Wednesday, 28 December 2022 06:43 AM

    Elon Musk: Every social media firm censors content for US government.Twitter CEO Elon Musk has revealed that all social media platforms work with the US government to censor content. Musk released documents following his purchase of Twitter which showed that the social media platform conspired with the FBI, CIA, Pentagon and other US government agencies to suppress information on US elections, Ukraine, and COVID-19. “*Every* social media company is engaged in heavy censorship, with significant involvement of and, at times, explicit direction of the government,” Musk tweeted, adding that “Google frequently makes links disappear, for example.” A self-proclaimed leader in upholding human rights, the US has been at the forefront of condemning human rights abuses globally. However, criticisms by the UN and American citizens suggest it has not been leading by example, with several human rights violations being brought to light.


Add comment

Comments will be edited (grammar, spelling and slang) and authorized at the discretion of Daily Mirror online. The website also has the right not to publish selected comments.

Reply To:

Name - Reply Comment





Order Gifts and Flowers to Sri Lanka. See Kapruka's top selling online shopping categories such as Toys, Grocery, Kids Toys, Birthday Cakes, Fruits, Chocolates, Clothing and Electronics. Also see Kapruka's unique online services such as Money Remittence,Astrology, Courier/Delivery, Medicine Delivery and over 700 top brands. Also get products from Amazon & Ebay via Kapruka Gloabal Shop into Sri Lanka

VAT increase: SOUNDs death knell for publishers, readers

Though the Government imposed VAT (Value Added Tax) on vegetables and other e

How female change-makers are driving Sri Lanka’s energy saving platform

Saving energy has become more of a responsibility than a habit in today’s c

A dull Ramadan awaits Muslims amidst the Soaring Cost of Living

In the coming days, Muslims across the world will welcome the Holy Month of R

New wildlife underpass to curtail HEC

As of February 2024, Sri Lanka lost another 38 elephants as a result of the H