Middle East Public date: 24.08.2017 23:12:18

Publisher: Aljazeera

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1 Jan 2011

Iran ‘will try opposition leaders’

Iran's chief prosecutor has insisted that opposition leaders who ran in the disputed 2009 presidential election will be put on trial over anti-government protests that sparked widespread unrest in the wake of the vote. Abbas Jafari Dowlatabadi's statement came weeks after the government issued a travel ban for former candidates Mir Hossain Mousavi and Mahdi Karroubi on allegations of being "mohareb" - a term meaning they are 'fighting against God'.
Iran's chief prosecutor has insisted that opposition leaders who ran in the disputed 2009 presidential election will be...

Publisher: Persian2English

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1 Jan 2011

Six Month Prison Sentences Upheld for Two Women’s Rights Activists

An appeals court upheld the sentences of Maryam Bidgoli and Fatemeh Masjedi who are women's rights activists and members of the One Million Signatures Campaign. Bidgoli and Masjedi will now begin serving sentences of six months in prison and will pay fines of $200 in cash in the coming days.
An appeals court upheld the sentences of Maryam Bidgoli and Fatemeh Masjedi who are women's rights activists and members...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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1 Jan 2011

Tehran’s Win-Win with the Nuclear Obsession

Iran is three years away from a nuclear weapon. So say the Israelis. Moshe Yaalon, the Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs, told a radio station that Tehran's development had been stalled by technological difficulties, otherwise, Iran would already have the Bomb.
Iran is three years away from a nuclear weapon. So say the Israelis. Moshe Yaalon, the Israeli Minister of Strategic...

Publisher: Persian2English

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1 Jan 2011

Zahra Rahnavard in Recent Statement: “Our people do not fear oppression”

In an interview with RASA, Zahra Rahnavard, university professor and [wife of Mir Hossein Mousavi] [discussed] the various aspects of Iran's democratic Green Movement and the oppressive tactics of the current Iranian regime. She said, "[Iran is ruled by] one of the most oppressive and violent regimes in the history of our nation. Our people do not fear oppression. Despite the continuous arrests and prison sentences our people [have] never hesitated and [even] bravely embraced incarceration."
In an interview with RASA, Zahra Rahnavard, university professor and [wife of Mir Hossein Mousavi] [discussed] the...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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31 Dec 2010

So How Big Was This Week’s Support for Ahmadinejad

I went to Ahmadinejad's big rally-and-fire-spitting extravaganza in Karaj today. It was probably the largest gathering he's had, so far as his provincial visits go. There were around 22,000 people present. It was also the first time in two decades Sepah, the Revolutionary Guards, provided security for a government rally in full uniform. There were about 250 officers I could count on the ground. Overall, there were about 3,500 security personnel -- Sepah, NAJA, Basij -- on rooftops, lining the street, at the stadium.
I went to Ahmadinejad's big rally-and-fire-spitting extravaganza in Karaj today. It was probably the largest gathering...

Publisher: Persian2English

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30 Dec 2010

Daughter of Ali Saremi Writes Letter to Her Executed Father

My dearest father, I wish to know whether you felt our presence behind the walls of Evin! We were shivering in the cold of winter [standing outside Evin prison]. The police forces had their heaters turned on in their cars to stay warm. Father, I had come to see your beautiful face. Father, I had come so that they would beat my mother, my sisters, and I in the heart, but [spare your life] so that you could stay and defend my country!
My dearest father, I wish to know whether you felt our presence behind the walls of Evin! We were shivering in the cold...

Publisher: Persian2English

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30 Dec 2010

Hundreds of Writers, University Professors, & Human Rights Activists Write Statement in Support of Habibollah Latifi & Other Death Row Political Prisoners

Habibollah Latifi, a detained student in Sanandaj prison who has been suffering for a long time from various illnesses and cardiac problem, is at risk of imminent execution. The Islamic Republic of Iran intends to send this Kurdish student to his death on the trumped-up charge of 'Moharabeh' [Enmity with God], and to spread and increase executions, which follows the objective of fear mongering in Kurdistan and all other regions in Iran.
Habibollah Latifi, a detained student in Sanandaj prison who has been suffering for a long time from various illnesses...

Publisher: Persian2English

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29 Dec 2010

Ali Saremi’s Daughter Speaks on Her Father’s Execution

Zeynab Saremi, the daughter of Ali Saremi, the prisoner who was executed Tuesday morning on the charge of Moharabeh [enmity with God] was in front of Evin prison when she told the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran (ICHRI) that the authorities refrained from giving the news of her father s execution, and the family was informed through Mr. Saremi s cell mate that the death sentence was possibly carried out.
Zeynab Saremi, the daughter of Ali Saremi, the prisoner who was executed Tuesday morning on the charge of Moharabeh...

Publisher: NYTimes

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29 Dec 2010

Iran Executes Man Convicted of Spying for Israel

Iran on Tuesday executed two men, one of them said to be a member of an exiled opposition group and the other convicted of spying for Mossad, the Israeli intelligence service, according to official reports. Iran s judiciary reported that the alleged spy, Ali-Akbar Siadat, had been hanged at Evin Prison in Tehran after being found guilty of passing on to Iran s enemies information about the country s military capability, including the missile program operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
Iran on Tuesday executed two men, one of them said to be a member of an exiled opposition group and the other convicted...

Publisher: consortium news

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29 Dec 2010

Trying More Carrots with Iran

By ratcheting up economic pressure on Iran (and rebuffing Iran s past offers of compromise), the Obama administration is looking tough and winning some credit from neoconservatives and other influential U.S. opinion leaders, but the outcome of this approach could dangerously boomerang.
By ratcheting up economic pressure on Iran (and rebuffing Iran s past offers of compromise), the Obama administration is...

Publisher: MSNBC

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28 Dec 2010

Iran corruption claims stoke political infighting

The allegations in Tehran aim high: Iran's top-ranked vice president facing charges of high-level corruption that could force him to stand trial. The claims hitting one of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's most trusted political partners hold the potential for serious mudslinging that could blast open the rivalries within the president's conservative camp.
The allegations in Tehran aim high: Iran's top-ranked vice president facing charges of high-level corruption that could...

Publisher: Associated Press News

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28 Dec 2010

Iran to let families visit jailed German reporters

Iran said Monday it will allow relatives to visit two German journalists detained while covering the case of an Iranian woman whose sentence to death by stoning for adultery has caused an international outcry. It was not immediately clear when the visit would be allowed. Earlier Monday, the German Foreign Ministry summoned the Iranian ambassador to complain that the two were not able to meet with relatives over Christmas, despite earlier promises.
Iran said Monday it will allow relatives to visit two German journalists detained while covering the case of an Iranian...

Publisher: Radio Free Europe

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28 Dec 2010

Iran’s Intelligence Minister Admits Hacking Into Opposition E-Mail

Iran s Intelligence Minister Heydar Moslehi has publicly admitted hacking into the e-mail of opposition members. Moslehi was quoted by Iranian news agencies, including ILNA, as saying that e-mails were the most important tool of communication between opposition members during last year s postelection protests and that the Intelligence Ministry could break into them and defeat the enemy."
Iran s Intelligence Minister Heydar Moslehi has publicly admitted hacking into the e-mail of opposition members. Moslehi...

Publisher: Persian2English

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28 Dec 2010

Muslim Group Says Regime’s Justification of Death Sentence for Habibollah Latifi NOT Supported by Islam

We contacted Muslim organizations to get their perspective on the charge against Habibollah, considering that the Islamic Republic of Iran claims it is religious based. The organization Muslims for Progressive Values responded to our inquiry with the following statement.
We contacted Muslim organizations to get their perspective on the charge against Habibollah, considering that the...

Publisher: Persian2English

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28 Dec 2010

URGENT! Death Row Political Prisoner Ali Saremi Transferred to Unknown Location!

According to reports from Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran, 62 year old political prisoner Ali Saremi who has been sentenced to death was removed from Ward 2 of Gohardasht (Rajai Shahr) prison and taken to an undisclosed location. On Monday, December 27, 2010, at approximately 1:30 pm, Ali Saremi was suddenly and unconventionally removed from Ward 2 and taken to an undisclosed location. His cell mates have been persistently and unsuccessfully asking prison officials about his whereabouts and the responses have been contradictory.
According to reports from Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran, 62 year old political prisoner Ali Saremi who...

Publisher: The Guardian

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27 Dec 2010

Iranian student’s execution halted by prison governor

A student who was to be executed in Iran today escaped death as hundreds of protesters arrived outside the prison where he is being held. According to intelligence reports from human rights groups and activists in Iran, which contacted Amnesty International this morning, around 300 people arrived at the gates of Sanandaj Prison, Kordestan, in western Iran where Habibollah Latifi, 29, is facing the death sentence.
A student who was to be executed in Iran today escaped death as hundreds of protesters arrived outside the prison where...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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27 Dec 2010

The Battle Against the President’s Men

Hossein Shariatmadari, the editor of Kayhan, published an editorial on Wednesday accusing those ayatollahs who recently met with families of political prisoners of being supporters of seditionists", adding, "Why do some senior clerics, intentionally or not, help the enemies of Islam?
Hossein Shariatmadari, the editor of Kayhan, published an editorial on Wednesday accusing those ayatollahs who recently...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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27 Dec 2010

The State of Civil Society…and What to Do About It

In the face of organizational limitations and roadblocks, parts of civil society in Iran have enjoyed significant growth over the past few decades. Recently, however, autocratic powers planned and executed an extensive attack on it. At present, civil society is in a hazardous situation. This is as a combined result of the following:
In the face of organizational limitations and roadblocks, parts of civil society in Iran have enjoyed significant growth...
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Publisher: Persian2English

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27 Dec 2010

URGENT! 8 Family Members of Habibollah Latifi Arrested, Deep Concerns Over Execution Sentence

Eight members of Habibollah Latifi s family have been arrested and there is no news available on their condition. The night before, Habibollah Latifi s scheduled execution at [Sanandaj prison] did not take place.
Eight members of Habibollah Latifi s family have been arrested and there is no news available on their condition. The...

Publisher: Aljazeera

Author:

26 Dec 2010

Travel ban for Iran reform leaders

Iran's two main opposition leaders have been barred from leaving the country, a prominent Iranian politician has said. Mousa Qorbani, a member of the judicial committee, announced the travel ban on Saturday for Mir Hossain Mousavi and Mahdi Karroubi - reformist leaders who ran in the disputed 2009 presidential elections. The measures are part of a state-sponsored crackdown on the reform movement after the elections sparked nationwide protests against the ruling party over vote fraud allegations.
Iran's two main opposition leaders have been barred from leaving the country, a prominent Iranian politician has said....

Publisher: GigaPica

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24 Dec 2010

Day of Ashura

Pictures of the Ashura rituals. Ashura is the final day of 10 days of mourning for the killing of the grandson of Prophet Mohammad in the year 680. Sunnis mark it quietly but Shi'ites hold public displays of grief, including flaying their backs with whips and chains which sometimes have small blades attached to their ends.
Pictures of the Ashura rituals. Ashura is the final day of 10 days of mourning for the killing of the grandson of...
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Publisher: Persian2English

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24 Dec 2010

Iran – World’s biggest prison for journalists

Reporters Without Borders condemns a new crackdown on journalists and intellectuals. The arrests of two journalists in the past two days bring the total number of media personnel arrested since 5 December to eight. The number of journalists now detained in the Islamic Republic of Iran now stands at 37, which makes it the world s biggest prison for the media
Reporters Without Borders condemns a new crackdown on journalists and intellectuals. The arrests of two journalists in...

Publisher: Persian2English

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24 Dec 2010

List of November December Detainees in Iran

At least a hundred political,civil rights,ethnic and religious activists were arrested by Intelligence and security organisations. The list below includes 69 arrested activists. The list is collected by the statistics unit of HRANA.
At least a hundred political,civil rights,ethnic and religious activists were arrested by Intelligence and security...

Publisher: Persian2English

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24 Dec 2010

Painful Interview with Brother of Peaceful Protester Murdered by Iranian Regime

I only attended a civil protest. I did not have a weapon. I did not shout derogatory slogans. I was only standing in silence. I have not done anything wrong. Why should I be scared? I will go and come back. These were the last words of Amir Javadifar [to his family], a victim of Kahrizak prison who ended up in a hospital on July 8, 2009 after being arrested and then beaten by Basij forces.
I only attended a civil protest. I did not have a weapon. I did not shout derogatory slogans. I was only standing in...

Publisher: LA Times

Author:

24 Dec 2010

Prices in Iran rise after subsidies lifted

Reporting from Tehran and Beirut The Iranian government's removal of decades-old subsidies for food and energy in an attempt to boost its troubled economy has spurred price increases on everything from fruit and vegetables to gasoline, generated work stoppages and emboldened the political opposition.
Reporting from Tehran and Beirut The Iranian government's removal of decades-old subsidies for food and energy in an...

Publisher: NYTimes

Author:

24 Dec 2010

U.S. Has Approved Billions in Business With Blacklisted Nations

Despite sanctions and trade embargoes, over the past decade the United States government has granted special licenses allowing American companies to do billions of dollars in business with Iran and other countries blacklisted as state sponsors of terrorism, an examination by The New York Times has found.
Despite sanctions and trade embargoes, over the past decade the United States government has granted special licenses...
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Publisher: Persian2English

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24 Dec 2010

URGENT!! Revolutionary Court Sets Habibollah Latifi’s Execution Date for December 26th

The time of execution of Kurdish political prisoner Habibollah Latifi has been issued to his lawyer. On Thursday, December 23rd, the judicial officials told Saleh Nikbakht, Mr. Latifi s lawyer that the death sentence of his client will definitely be carried out on Sunday, December 26, 2010.
The time of execution of Kurdish political prisoner Habibollah Latifi has been issued to his lawyer. On Thursday,...

Publisher: NYPost

Author:

24 Dec 2010

Workers strike in Iran

'Down with the Despot!" That's the slogan chanted in the last few days by thousands of Iranian industrial workers and miners. Reports from more than 30 cities across Iran indicate a nationwide protest movement with a mix of economic and political demands that could threaten the Khomeinist regime.
'Down with the Despot!" That's the slogan chanted in the last few days by thousands of Iranian industrial workers and...
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22 Dec 2010

After steep gas price increase, truckers stay off the roads in Iran

Thousands of Iranian truck drivers began a second day of strikes Tuesday after a sharp increase in the price of diesel fuel, transportation company officials said, as the Obama administration announced a further tightening of economic sanctions intended to pressure Iran over its nuclear program.
Thousands of Iranian truck drivers began a second day of strikes Tuesday after a sharp increase in the price of diesel...

Publisher: NYTimes

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22 Dec 2010

Energy Policy in Iran Leaves Many Gasping

One of Tehran s signature landscapes the imposing, rugged line of the Alborz Mountains at the city s northern boundary has suddenly become an elusive one. Instead, Tehranis eyes, and complaints, have turned toward a dense and noxious wall of smog that has only rarely lifted during the past two months.
One of Tehran s signature landscapes the imposing, rugged line of the Alborz Mountains at the city s northern boundary...

Publisher: pajamas media

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22 Dec 2010

Iranian Chaos Spontaneous Revolt Against the Regime

The port of Bandar Abbas is one of Iran s major shipping hubs, as well as a big naval base in the Straits of Hormuz, and the site of a big refinery. It is now in chaos. Thousands of trucks, many of them loaded with imported foodstuffs, commercial goods of all description, and even oil products, have blocked the city s roads, effectively ending all movement in and around the port.
The port of Bandar Abbas is one of Iran s major shipping hubs, as well as a big naval base in the Straits of Hormuz, and...
22 Dec 2010

Middle East Spectator: Will Al-Salehi Repair Relations?

It was notable that the first statement issued by the new Iranian Foreign Minister, Ali Akbar Salehi, focussed on the need to improve his country's relations with two of its neighbours: Saudi Arabia and Turkey. At a time when relations with Turkey are considered to be at their best for 30 years, relations with Saudi Arabia have reached a new low, and are likely to deteriorate further. Ousted minister Manouchehr Mottaki was not the cause of such deterioration, and thus it would be wrong to think that his dismissal would remove the obstacles between the two countries.
It was notable that the first statement issued by the new Iranian Foreign Minister, Ali Akbar Salehi, focussed on the...

Publisher: The Guardian

Author:

21 Dec 2010

Iran executes 11 linked to Sunni rebel group

Iran has executed 11 people linked to a Sunni rebel group that claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing of a Shia mosque, it has emerged. The 11 were hanged at dawn on Monday in Zahedan, the capital of Sistan-Baluchistan province, eastern Iran. Zahedan is where Jundollah, said to be based in Pakistan, has carried out a series of attacks in recent years.
Iran has executed 11 people linked to a Sunni rebel group that claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing of a Shia...

Publisher: UPI

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21 Dec 2010

Iran weighs cutting ties with London

Members of an Iranian foreign policy commissions considered a measure to sever ties with the British government, a lawmaker said. Mohammad Karami-Rad, a member of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, told state-funded broadcaster Press TV that London's "hostile acts" toward the Islamic republic were cause for concern.
Members of an Iranian foreign policy commissions considered a measure to sever ties with the British government, a...

Publisher: ynetnews

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21 Dec 2010

Iran’s Khamenei Dismisses Hariri Tribunal

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday dismissed as "null and void" imminent rulings by the UN court probing the 2005 murder of ex-Lebanese premier Rafiq Hariri, state television reported.
Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday dismissed as "null and void" imminent rulings by the UN court...
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Publisher: mmedia

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21 Dec 2010

Iran, Qatar Vow Cooperation for Security

Iran and Qatar on Monday pledged to cooperate for greater regional security during a visit to Tehran by the emir of the tiny but energy-rich Gulf state, official media reported. "By consultation and harmony Iran and Qatar can strengthen unity among regional countries and implement security and stability," Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was quoted as saying in a meeting with Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani.
Iran and Qatar on Monday pledged to cooperate for greater regional security during a visit to Tehran by the emir of the...

Publisher: BBC News

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21 Dec 2010

Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahi gets six-year sentence

The acclaimed Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahi has been sentenced to six years in prison, his lawyer says. Farideh Gheirat said Mr Panahi had been convicted of working against the Iranian system, the semi-official Isna news agency reported.
The acclaimed Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahi has been sentenced to six years in prison, his lawyer says. Farideh...

Publisher: Persian2English

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21 Dec 2010

Kurdish Political Prisoner on Death Row ‘The judge told me that he will put the noose around my neck’

My name is Haibollah Golparipour and I have been sentenced to death on charges of acting against national security. During my arrest and interrogations my rights have been trampled on and no government agency has paid attention to my case and my protests.
My name is Haibollah Golparipour and I have been sentenced to death on charges of acting against national security....

Publisher: Persian2English

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21 Dec 2010

Mehdi Karroubi Issues Statement on Mistreatment of Families Outside Evin During Ashura

In a conversation with family members of incarcerated political prisoners, Mehdi Karroubi expressed shock regarding the manner in which Mohammad Nourizad's family was treated on Ashura (December 16th), reiterating that this type of behavior only demonstrates the authoritarian government's desperation. Karroubi spoke by phone with a number of families of political prisoners regarding the condition of their loved ones in prison, praying for the end to their troubles and their prompt release from prison.
In a conversation with family members of incarcerated political prisoners, Mehdi Karroubi expressed shock regarding the...

Publisher: Alarabiya

Author:

21 Dec 2010

Who’s in Charge of Iran’s Foreign Policy

Acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi made a nice statement about the necessity of Iran improving its relations with Saudi Arabia, saying "Saudi Arabia deserves to have special political ties with Iran. Iran and Saudi Arabia, as two effective countries in the Islamic world, can resolve many problems together."
Acting Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi made a nice statement about the necessity of Iran improving its...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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20 Dec 2010

Ahmadinejad Walks a Tightrope to Bring Out His Subsidy Cuts

On Saturday night, after months of delay, President Ahmadinejad finally declared that some subsidy cuts --including reductions on bread, gasoline, and utilities --- would begin in Iran at midnight. While there are still limits on the prices that can be set, the new cost of a subsidised, rationed litre of gasoline rose 300%, from 100 to 400 tomans ($0.10 to $0.40), and the cost of an un-rationed litre was moved to 700 toman ($0.70), a rise of 75%. Earlier in the day, Iranian officials also said the ration for subsidised gasoline for private motorists would be cut 15%.
On Saturday night, after months of delay, President Ahmadinejad finally declared that some subsidy cuts --including...

Publisher: Persian2English

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20 Dec 2010

Mohammad Nourizad’s Family Send Bold Letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader

It has been days since there has been any news of Mohammad Nourizad; days since his three minute trial in which he was insulted and his prison sentence increased. With no one else to turn to, Nourizad s family have now written a letter to the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, referencing a young girl who long ago had the courage to stand up and criticize the Supreme Leader in his presence. Although the young girl s action at the time met with the criticism from those close to the Supreme Leader, she nevertheless received a direct response from the Supreme Leader on that day. In this letter, Nourizad's family told the Supreme Leader of an Ashura in which security agents humiliated and removed the hejab [head scarf] from the head of Mrs. Nourizad, and with *Zeynab, dragging her away on the floor into Evin prison. Will their oppressed and silenced voices be heard this time?
It has been days since there has been any news of Mohammad Nourizad; days since his three minute trial in which he was...

Publisher: Aljazeera

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20 Dec 2010

Sacked minister slams Ahmadinejad

The former Iranian foreign minister has criticised Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the country's president, over his abrupt dismissal during a work visit to Africa last week. Manouchehr Mottaki was quoted in a local media report as saying he was not informed of the decision before or during the trip. Ahmadinejad announced the decision while Mottaki was away on a diplomatic mission to Senegal, the Mehr news agency reported.
The former Iranian foreign minister has criticised Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the country's president, over his abrupt...

Publisher: EA WorldView

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20 Dec 2010

Shirin Ebadi on Human Rights and the Regime’s Campaign Against Lawyers

Nobel Prize laureate, lawyer, and activist Shirin Ebadi speaks about the human rights situation in Iran --- "Is it getting as much attention as the nuclear issue?" --- and the regime's attempt to break attorneys through intimidation and imprisonment
Nobel Prize laureate, lawyer, and activist Shirin Ebadi speaks about the human rights situation in Iran --- "Is it...

Publisher: Alarabiya

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18 Dec 2010

In Iran, A Taboo Is Broken

Is opposition to the rule of a mullah in Iran tantamount to the denial of God? This is the question that is peppering political and religious debate in Iran these days.
Is opposition to the rule of a mullah in Iran tantamount to the denial of God? This is the question that is peppering...

Publisher: Alarabiya

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17 Dec 2010

Iranians Mark Ashura a Day after Suicide Bombing

Millions of Iranians, beating themselves with fists and chains, marked the climax of Ashura on Thursday, a day after a suicide bomber killed 33 people taking part in a procession for Shiite Islam's most revered mourning ritual. Men, women and children dressed in black gathered in cities across Iran as the 10 days of rituals to mourn the death of Imam Hussein, the faith's third imam, reached their peak.
Millions of Iranians, beating themselves with fists and chains, marked the climax of Ashura on Thursday, a day after a...
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16 Dec 2010

Iran the Cash Cow of India

Last month the United Nations General Assembly approved a draft resolution, condemning Iran s severe human rights violations. The resolution was piloted by Canada, 88 countries voted in favor and 44 against it. The formal adoption of this resolution should take place sometime, December 2010, and its passing will mark the UN s 7th consecutive year of criticizing the Islamic Regimes failures to abide by Universal Human Rights standards.
Last month the United Nations General Assembly approved a draft resolution, condemning Iran s severe human rights...

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16 Dec 2010

The Battle Within and The Protests Are Still The Stories (Miller)

This week, Iran's president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad dismissed his Foreign Minister, Manouchehr Mottaki, for no given reason. The problem is that the mainstream media, and most politicians, haven't stopped to ask why the Foreign Minister was dismissed. Instead, they've wondered whether this will result in a change of direction with respect to Iran's nuclear program.
This week, Iran's president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad dismissed his Foreign Minister, Manouchehr Mottaki, for no given reason....
16 Dec 2010

Iran Suicide Bombing Is the U.S. Still Funding Jundallah

A Sunni terrorist organization that may have ties to the U.S. government is claiming responsibility for a coordinated suicide bombing attack Wednesday at a Shiite mosque in the southeastern Iranian city of Chahbahar. Thirty-nine people, including women and children gathered to celebrate the holy day of Ashura, were killed and nearly 100 more were wounded.
A Sunni terrorist organization that may have ties to the U.S. government is claiming responsibility for a coordinated...

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16 Dec 2010

Iran bombing Profile of Sunni group Jundallah

Jundallah, the Iranian Sunni group that claimed responsibility for today's suicide bombing which killed dozens of people, has a long history of attacks on civilian targets. Often said by Tehran to be supported by the US, Britain or Israel, it uses bases in nearby Pakistan to mount attacks in the border province of Sistan-Baluchestan, where there is a Sunni majority.
Jundallah, the Iranian Sunni group that claimed responsibility for today's suicide bombing which killed dozens of...

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16 Dec 2010

Fears grow for health of detained Iranian lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh

Human rights activists have raised serious concerns about the health of Nasrin Sotoudeh, a human rights lawyer who has been on hunger strike in Tehran's notorious Evin prison for more than a week. Sotoudeh, 45, has been kept in solitary confinement since her arrest in September. She is charged with "propaganda against the regime" and "acting against national security". Her supporters describe the charges as bogus and unsubstantial.
Human rights activists have raised serious concerns about the health of Nasrin Sotoudeh, a human rights lawyer who has...

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15 Dec 2010

Iran mosque bombing kills dozens

Two bombs near a mosque in south-eastern Iran have killed an estimated 39 people at a Shia mourning ceremony. A Sunni Muslim rebel group, Jundallah, claimed it was responsible for the attack, which took place outside the Imam Hussein mosque in the port city of Chahbahar, near the border with Pakistan.
Two bombs near a mosque in south-eastern Iran have killed an estimated 39 people at a Shia mourning ceremony. A Sunni...
15 Dec 2010

Iran plays doves and hawks too

By all accounts, Salehi's appointment, even though considered temporary by some Tehran political insiders, is a plus for Iran's nuclear diplomacy, for several reasons: First, compared to Mottaki, who was always on the sideline of nuclear decision-making, Salehi is a nuclear specialist who can propel the Foreign Ministry into more direct pursuit of Iran's current nuclear diplomacy goals. He can, for example, be more persuasive with Arab neighbors who are wary of Iran's peaceful nuclear intentions, and also speak with greater authority than Mottaki on the subject to elicit greater attention in Western capitals, irrespective of the fact that Saeed Jalili continues to be Iran's chief nuclear negotiator.
By all accounts, Salehi's appointment, even though considered temporary by some Tehran political insiders, is a plus for...
14 Dec 2010

Now even newborns can join the pro-government Basiji militia

Forget the Boy Scouts. As of Monday, newborns and children up to the age of 7 can sign up for the paramilitary Basiji organization, according to the Mehr news agency (Persian link). Parents are invited to register their bouncing little baby boys and girls at the Basiji office in Tehran, where they can receive their membership cards.
Forget the Boy Scouts. As of Monday, newborns and children up to the age of 7 can sign up for the paramilitary Basiji...

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14 Dec 2010

Iran vs. Somali Pirates in Thug Navy Showdown

As Somali pirates creep closer to the Persian Gulf, the Iranian government is getting ready to push em back. Which begs the question: Can you root for both sides in a fight getting their asses kicked? Mohammad-Hossein Dajmar, director general of Iran s Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Line (IRISL), is due to present a plan for increased surveillance of Iranian shipping in the Indian Ocean in order to combat the threat of Somali piracy as it gets closer to Iran s shores.
As Somali pirates creep closer to the Persian Gulf, the Iranian government is getting ready to push em back. Which begs...
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14 Dec 2010

Condoms Distributed to Facilitate Rape of Young Prisoners

Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) Gohardasht Rajai Shahr prison officials have distributed condoms amongst miscreant prisoners who rape young and new coming prisoners. Based on reports by Human Right Activist News Agency (HRANA), Rajai Shahr prison officials, instead of addressing the real issue [I.e. rape of young prisoners], distributed condoms to the prisoners in hall 11 of ward 4 to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases like Hepatitis and AIDS among the prisoners.
Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) Gohardasht Rajai Shahr prison officials have distributed condoms amongst...
14 Dec 2010

Ahmadinejad’s Victory The Firing of Foreign Minister Mottaki

The Iranian government has some special characteristics. The Foreign Minister, together with the Ministers of Defense and Intelligence, are generally considered to be outside the control of the President. The incumbents for these ministries are usually strictly controlled by the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khamenei has a special attachment to the Foreign Ministry, for ever since the start of his first Presidential term in 1981, Khamenei has exerted control over the Minister. Despite the opposition of the then Prime Minister, Mir-Hossein Mousavi, in the late 1980s, Khamenei succeeded in installing a close associate, Ali Akbar Velayati, as foreign minister. Velayati kept his position until Mohammad Khatami's presidential triumph in 1997, when he was replaced by another Khamenei loyalist, former UN ambassador Kamal Kharrazi.
The Iranian government has some special characteristics. The Foreign Minister, together with the Ministers of Defense...

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14 Dec 2010

Iran Can’t Go On Like This — The Mistaken Predictions for the 22 Bahman Protests

The events of 22 Bahman (11 February 2010) were a significant disappointment for the Iranian opposition. In the weeks before the anniversary of the 1979 Revolution, there was an excitement that protests against the Government and regime --- which had continued despite repression and made a notable impact in the Ashura demonstrations of 27 December --- would build, possibly to a critical point.
The events of 22 Bahman (11 February 2010) were a significant disappointment for the Iranian opposition. In the weeks...

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14 Dec 2010

Another exceptional American takes aim at Iran

we should continue and enhance espionage and sabotage of the Iranian nuclear program. Every nuclear scientist who has a "car accident" and every computer virus buys us time, setting back the timeline for Iran's nuclear capability, while exacting a price for those who cooperate with the nuclear program. Think of it as the ultimate targeted sanction.
we should continue and enhance espionage and sabotage of the Iranian nuclear program. Every nuclear scientist who has a...
13 Dec 2010

Hezbollah strays from Iranian line on WikiLeaks, praises its disclosures

Hezbollah leader Sheik Hassan Nasrallah appears to have acknowledged the credibility of WikiLeaks, breaking with the official stance of the group's patron, Iran, that the leaked diplomatic cables are part of some American and Israeli-backed conspiracy. By supporting WikiLeaks, Nasrallah now finds himself in the same camp as an unlikely figure: Iranian opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi, who said in comments published Saturday that the documents expose Iran's "vulnerability."
Hezbollah leader Sheik Hassan Nasrallah appears to have acknowledged the credibility of WikiLeaks, breaking with the...

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13 Dec 2010

Mossad Sought to Assassinate Ahmadinejad in Lebanon – Iranian Source

An informed Iranian source revealed that Israeli Mossad attempted to assassinate Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during his recent visit to Lebanon. The source also revealed that a number of Iranians visited the Israeli border [with Lebanon] two weeks ago under the protection of Hezbollah, and also accused Washington of attempting to bring the Iranian opposition together under one leadership in order to create tension in Iran.
An informed Iranian source revealed that Israeli Mossad attempted to assassinate Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad...
13 Dec 2010

The President is a Puppet of the Leader

Supreme Leader Khamenei aspires to become the "emperor" of the Islamic world and is willing to sacrifice Iranian national interests for this goal. He sees President Ahmadi-Nejad as merely a puppet of the Supreme Leader, under the leader's complete control. Ahmadi-Nejad, in turn, sees more pragmatic conservatives such as [Speaker of Parliament Ali] Larijani and [Tehran Mayor Mohammad-Baqer] Qalibaf as his main rivals.
Supreme Leader Khamenei aspires to become the "emperor" of the Islamic world and is willing to sacrifice Iranian...

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13 Dec 2010

Mousavi’s Call for The Religious Month of Moharram

In these critical times, let us take action as Zeynab [the sister of Imam Hossein] did and give the true message of religion with its spiritual face to those who are thirsty for truth. It is our responsibility to learn and to teach others that the false claims of those pretending to be religious should not be considered as what the religion truly is. It is our responsibility to tell the true story of the Revolution for this generation...and in this telling the facts we should not be afraid from fairly criticising the past and at the same time we should avoid denying its great achievements.
In these critical times, let us take action as Zeynab [the sister of Imam Hossein] did and give the true message of...

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13 Dec 2010

Messages, Confessions , and Those Behind Bars

Economist Mohsen Renani, in comments published in the conservative Aftab, has alleged that academic studies on effects of subsidy cuts are censored and media are not allowed to publish data. He asserts that subsidy cuts will stop development for several generations and cause social crisis.
Economist Mohsen Renani, in comments published in the conservative Aftab, has alleged that academic studies on effects...
11 Dec 2010

IRAN Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia squeezed between Tehran and Washington

Armenia finds itself in an unfriendly neighborhood and engaged in a highly militarized 20-year territorial dispute with Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. It has long pulled off a diplomatic coup, maintaining simultaneous close relations with Iran, Russia and the United States, all three of which it relies on for protection, investment and trade.
Armenia finds itself in an unfriendly neighborhood and engaged in a highly militarized 20-year territorial dispute with...

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11 Dec 2010

Senate hawks push Obama on Iran

Five senators sent a letter to United States President Barack Obama on Monday warning the administration not to offer concessions in upcoming talks with Iran over its nuclear program. If Obama takes the advice, experts say, it could sink his engagement efforts with Tehran.
Five senators sent a letter to United States President Barack Obama on Monday warning the administration not to offer...

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11 Dec 2010

Iranian Labor Activist Trapped in Greek Detention

Mohammad Ashrafi is a member of the Committee for the Foundation of Free Workers Organizations in Iran and a well known labor activist. For over three months, Mohammad Ashrafi has been locked up in a Greek prison. The Committee of Iranian Political Refugees in Greece has issued the following statement regarding him.
Mohammad Ashrafi is a member of the Committee for the Foundation of Free Workers Organizations in Iran and a well known...
11 Dec 2010

Ahmadinejad aide provokes clergy with fresh set of provocative remarks

President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's closest aide and confidante is back it again. Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, the president's chief of staff, is stirring up trouble by challenging the clergy's attitudes toward art and music in unusually harsh and abrasive terms. Some do not feel and understand music, so they declare it haram," or sinful under Islam, the Persian-language Atynews reported him as saying this week.
President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's closest aide and confidante is back it again. Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, the president's...

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10 Dec 2010

Reza Shahabi on Hunger Strike, His Life in Danger!

In our Campaign s Announcement No. 62, we reported that since December 4, 2010, Reza Shahabi, the board member of the Bus Workers Union in Tehran, has gone on hunger strike to protest against constant pressures and physical torture inflicted on him. In an interview with Radio Farda, Hassan Shahabi, Reza Shahabi s brother has confirmed the news of his brother s dry hunger strike and poor physical condition. So far, Hassan Shahabi has inquired about the status of his brother s case by referring to multiple revolutionary courts in Tehran. Meanwhile, the Revolutionary Court at Evin prison has sent Hassan Shahabi to another court whose officials have denied receiving the case file.
In our Campaign s Announcement No. 62, we reported that since December 4, 2010, Reza Shahabi, the board member of the...
9 Dec 2010

Giving legitimacy to an illegitimate government

In the political arena it is crucial for a state to obtain what is referred to as Political Power. The attainment of this type of power can wield societal influence and is in actuality the ability to influence the behavior of others with or without resistance. The concentration and maintenance of political power in the hands of one man over a period of time defines the political system of President Ahmadinejad s regime since the disputed 2009 elections.
In the political arena it is crucial for a state to obtain what is referred to as Political Power. The attainment of...

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9 Dec 2010

Iranian Commander Perturbed By Opposition Support In Army

Iranian army commander-in-chief Ataollah Salehi has expressed concern that some servicemen sympathize with the opposition Green Movement that emerged in the wake of last year's disputed presidential election, RFE/RL's Radio Farda reports. Salehi said "some soldiers" had pictures of Green Movement leaders in their barrack rooms, an indication that young people are beginning to doubt the founding principles of the Islamic Republic.
Iranian army commander-in-chief Ataollah Salehi has expressed concern that some servicemen sympathize with the...

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9 Dec 2010

Tehran chokes on pollution, regime denies blame

Acute air pollution in Tehran cannot be blamed on gasoline produced in an emergency plan to foil sanctions over Iran s nuclear program, officials said on Wednesday, instead blaming the weather and domestic heaters
Acute air pollution in Tehran cannot be blamed on gasoline produced in an emergency plan to foil sanctions over Iran s...
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9 Dec 2010

Tehran chokes and blames severe pollution on US sanctions

Residents of Tehran are blaming US sanctions for unprecedented levels of air pollution that have repeatedly forced the closure of universities and schools in the Iranian capital in the past month.
Residents of Tehran are blaming US sanctions for unprecedented levels of air pollution that have repeatedly forced the...
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9 Dec 2010

Zahra Bahrami’s Upcoming Trial and Possible Death Sentence

According to reports received from Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran, Zahra Bahrami, an Iranian born Dutch citizen imprisoned in Iran is scheduled for trial in branch 15 of the Revolutionary Court on Sunday December 12, 2010. Judge Salavati will preside over the proceedings. Zahra Bahrami has spent nearly a year in prison without a trial. During this time, she has endured nine months of imprisonment in ward 209 of Evin prison. Zahra Bahrami s charges are as follows: Enmity with God (Moharebeh), member of the Royalist party, propaganda against the Islamic Republic of Iran, and possession of narcotics.
According to reports received from Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran, Zahra Bahrami, an Iranian born Dutch...

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8 Dec 2010

Liveblog Students’ Day in Iran, Dec. 7 (16 Azar) 2010

All in all, protests were more widespread and better covered than we expected them to be. In fact, based on the preparedness of the regime during previous protest events, it seems that even the security forces were surprised at how vibrant resistance was today.
All in all, protests were more widespread and better covered than we expected them to be. In fact, based on the...
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8 Dec 2010

Despite crackdown, students stage anti-government protests nationwide

Defying a severe crackdown against the opposition and widespread political repression, Iranian students on Tuesday staged small anti-government protests throughout the country on the anniversary of Students Day. Amateur video footage taken during illegal protests on campuses throughout the country showed students chanting slogans from last year's huge demonstrations against President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, whose widely disputed reelection last year spurred months of unrest.
Defying a severe crackdown against the opposition and widespread political repression, Iranian students on Tuesday...
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8 Dec 2010

If a Protest Occurs and No One Notices, Does It Make a Sound

For some, it is as if the demonstrations on National Student Day --- 16 Azar --- never happened. You will not, for example, find any reference in Iranian state media to the protests on campuses across the nation. Press TV's top story prefers the relative security of the nuclear discussions, with Iran's National Security Council "call[ing] on Western powers to exercise commitment to agreements they make with the Islamic Republic".
For some, it is as if the demonstrations on National Student Day --- 16 Azar --- never happened. You will not, for...
8 Dec 2010

Student day scrap book

I have started compiling video, photos, and information concerning protests on Student Day, 7 December 2010, at 3:15 PM GMT. My aim is to give a raw idea of today's events. This should not be considered a live blog. I will update and bring a semblance of organization as the day progresses.
I have started compiling video, photos, and information concerning protests on Student Day, 7 December 2010, at 3:15 PM...
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8 Dec 2010

What Now for the Greens and the Government

Let me be clear: today was a grand success for supporters of the Green Movement and a day of utter shame for those who kept blowing their horns of disagreement for months, blaring about the supposed demise of the opposition. Another set of demonstrations, another round of slogans, another group arrested. The protests are over, and now it's the task of sifting through websites, tweets, Facebook posts, and blogs to figure out how many people were arrested, if anyone was injured or killed, what the government did to block the protesters....
Let me be clear: today was a grand success for supporters of the Green Movement and a day of utter shame for those who...

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7 Dec 2010

In Iran, a Christian pastor faces death sentence

A Christan pastor in Iran has been sentenced to death for allegedly renouncing his Muslim religion and another faces a possible indictment on the same charge of apostasy, according to a prominent activist group working for human rights in Iran.
A Christan pastor in Iran has been sentenced to death for allegedly renouncing his Muslim religion and another faces a...

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7 Dec 2010

Defector Iran hosted North Korean technicians

A former Iranian diplomat who defected to the West this year says he saw North Korean technicians "repeatedly" travel to Iran, which Western officials fear is trying to develop nuclear weapons. Mohammad Reza Heydari, who resigned in January from his post as Iranian consul in Norway, said he's "certain" the cooperation is continuing between his home country and North Korea.
A former Iranian diplomat who defected to the West this year says he saw North Korean technicians "repeatedly" travel to...
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