Akbar Hashemi’s Memoirs – 12 September 2002

With Hassan-Aqa Khomeini, who had returned from South Africa, we discussed the needs of the shrine, the problems of the reformists (the “Second Khordad” group), the possible resignation of Mr. [Seyed Mohammad] Khatami, and a potential U.S. attack on Iraq.

Full diary entry:

Until 11 a.m., I worked at home. Mr. Sheikh Mohammad Hashemian and his brother, Mohsen, came to request a foreign currency loan for the cooperative company of [Rafsanjan pistachio exporters]; apparently, it had been delayed due to opposition from Mr. [Tahmasb] Mazaheri, the Minister of Economy, even though the relevant authorities had approved and communicated it, causing problems in Rafsanjan. They said some Iranian orchard owners in the U.S. were obstructing pistachio exports, and the news about the cancellation of Iran’s pistachio tariff in the U.S. was just a targeted rumor and did not happen. Sheikh Mohammad, [the Friday Imam of Rafsanjan], said that his speech in the [Assembly of Experts] had influenced the majority and they requested its publication.

Until evening, I worked in the Kooshk office, including preparing for tomorrow’s Friday sermon. In the evening, Hassan-Aqa Khomeini arrived, having returned from South Africa. He had spent three months there with the son of Mr. [Seyed Kazem] Nourmofidi, [Friday Imam of Gorgan], attending classes to improve their English. We discussed the shrine’s needs, the problems of the reformists (Second Khordad group), the possible resignation of Mr. [Seyed Mohammad] Khatami, and a potential U.S. attack on Iraq.

George Bush, [President of the United States], in his speech today at the UN General Assembly, accused Iraq of producing weapons of mass destruction, supporting Al-Qaeda, and said that if the UN did not act, the U.S. would attack Iraq alone. He was supposed to present evidence for his claims about Iraq today, but nothing new was said.

The European Union negotiation delegation’s talks with Iran concluded. The Europeans said the negotiations covered trade and economic issues, alongside reminders about human rights, weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, and recognition of Israel. The Deputy Foreign Minister immediately stated that Iran would not accept any preconditions and that economic negotiations were independent.

It was announced that today, in three provinces of Afghanistan, attacks were carried out on U.S. military bases, leaving more than 40 dead and wounded. The U.S. announced the temporary closure of 15 embassies and consulates in Asian and African countries due to received threats for security reasons.