Iran Condemns Foreign Support for Violence Amid Domestic Protests
NAEEM MEHBOOB:
Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam defended the government’s ongoing economic reforms, which include restructuring subsidies to improve public welfare and promote social justice. He acknowledged that price increases have sparked lawful and peaceful protests by shopkeepers and business communities, which the government recognizes as legitimate.
However, Moghadam accused rioters and individuals linked to foreign-backed hostile groups of exploiting the demonstrations through violence, arson, vandalism, and attacks on neighborhoods, markets, and government institutions. He criticized public support for these groups from the U.S. President and Israel’s Prime Minister, calling it a violation of international law and state sovereignty.
The ambassador emphasized that the majority of Iranians continue to support their government and security forces. He cited historical examples of foreign-backed attacks against Iran, including the 1980 Tabas hostage rescue attempt, terrorist activities, the eight-year war with Iraq, and the downing of a civilian plane, calling these part of a long record of hostility against the Islamic Republic.
Moghadam concluded that, under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and with the support of its people and security forces, Iran will overcome the current unrest and continue the principled path of the Islamic Revolution.
