Keeping Iran in View


Michael Jackson died right in the middle of the electoral crisis in Iran and America lost sight of what was happening in this vital region of the world. Celebrity apparently trumps freedom. Yesterday, under heavy security, with no opposition figures present, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was inaugurated for a second term. Indeed, not only were there no opposition figures present, many are in jail and on trial.

Am I surprised at this turn of events? No. But, what we need to keep our eye on is the continued presence of protest. It ebbs and flows, and the Iranian government has done everything it can to silence the protests, but they continue one way or another.

So, how should we respond? I believe our government should take a cautious road forward and it should warn Israel against doing anything provocative. Things in Iran are tenuous. There are divisions among the conservatives and Ahmadinejad had to back down on his appointment of a relative as VP. There are divisions within the religious leadership -- many unhappy with the militarism of the Supreme Leader and the President.

Let us keep our eyes open for signs of change. They may come slowly, but freedom is on the rise. We need to be ready to welcome them when the time comes, for it will surely come. The people of Iran are tired of oppression.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad didn't get his kiss. Pray that's a lesson for him.

Israel should learn not punish all to hurt a few. Obviously, the commom Iranians are not evil. Don't harden their hearts to peace.

David Mc

Popular Posts