Memories of Akbar Hashemi - January 30, 2002 - Reactions to Sheikh Mehdi Karroubi's Statements in the Sixth Majlis and the Trial of Shahram Jazayeri Arab, and the Death of Saeed Imam (Islami) with Analysis from Kayhan and Resalat Newspapers

Reactions to Sheikh Mehdi Karroubi's Statements in the Sixth Majlis and the Trial of Shahram Jazayeri Arab, and the Death of Saeed Imam (Islami)

Full Text of the Daily Notes:

I worked in the office until the afternoon, reviewing reports and newspapers, particularly focusing on Resalat and Kayhan regarding Mr. Mehdi Karroubi's remarks during yesterday's Majlis session. There has been sharp criticism of his restlessness in response to the trial of Shahram Jazayeri and his insults directed at the judiciary, along with mentioning the death of Saeed Imam due to cleaning chemicals. His statements have been interpreted as an objection to President Khatami, questioning the actions of the special committee appointed by him. Overall, the reformists have found themselves in a position of passivity.

The Iranian officials' reactions to President George Bush's statements have received widespread coverage in both domestic and foreign media. Notably, the Supreme Leader labeled Bush as bloodthirsty and referred to the United States as the "Great Satan." Within the U.S., various factions are attempting to downplay the venom of Bush's statements, while Bush has reiterated his remarks. The European Union has stated that it is unwilling to collaborate with the U.S. on handling countries and has warned that Bush's policy undermines Western unity. Many global figures have also described Bush's statements as irresponsible and reckless.

In Afghanistan, an American cruise missile struck a village in Kandahar, killing several people, while another attack targeted a different village, claiming to capture a Taliban munitions depot. This has incited public outrage, and in Paktia, intense armed clashes have erupted between the appointed governor, Hamid Karzai, and the former ruler. This situation is replicable in many parts of Afghanistan. In Pakistan, a new group called the "Movement for the Restoration of Pakistan Independence" has kidnapped an American journalist, Daniel Pearl, accusing him of being a CIA agent and has issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the U.S. to free Pakistani prisoners. Another group, named "Al-Saqa," has warned General Pervez Musharraf, the President of Pakistan, to avoid turning Pakistan into a bastion of infidelity.

Today, gatherings and protests by teachers took place in Shiraz and Arak.