Akbar Hashemi's Memoirs - May 18, 2001 - Hashemi's Analysis of State Newspapers' Narrative on the Possibility of Mohammad Khatami's Resignation

Approval of Sections of General Policies of the System Regarding Foreign Relations

The Assembly of Expediency held a session today, where several sections of the general policies regarding foreign relations were approved, including measures to counteract American hegemony. I expressed condolences for the victims of the airplane accident. It was revealed that the plane had crashed into trees in the forests at an elevation of three thousand feet near the village of Kharichang in Sari.

Confirmation of the Crash of the Plane Carrying the Minister of Roads and Transportation and Accompanying Officials

In the afternoon, Mr. Masoud Safiri, the editor of Hayat-e Now newspaper, requested an interview, which I declined. He suggested that I speak more during the elections. I replied that the second of Khordad (reformist) movement had disrupted and diverted the reform process with extremism, and the correct approach was the method of the Construction Government, which not only built the country but also gradually opened up the political space, leading to the results of the fifth parliamentary elections and the presidential election.

Consultation with Taha Hashemi Regarding the Suggested Position of the Presidency of the Islamic Culture and Communication Organization

Mr. Taha Hashemi, the editor-in-chief of Entekhab newspaper, came to inquire about the analysis behind Mr. Ali Shamkhani's candidacy for the presidency and who had supported and encouraged him. He mentioned that Mr. Khatami's proposal was for him to replace Mr. Mohammad Ali Tashkiri, the head of the Islamic Culture and Communication Organization. He expressed concerns that the campaigns of the nine rival candidates would exert significant pressure on Mr. Khatami.

Recent Developments in Israel and the Arab World

Israel retaliated last night in response to a bomb explosion by attacking Gaza and the West Bank with F-16 aircraft for the first time. Today, in revenge for last night's explosion in Jerusalem, they launched helicopter attacks, resulting in several casualties and injuries. Kofi Annan, the UN Secretary-General, and several European countries condemned these actions, while the United States condemned the Palestinians' actions. The Arab League has announced its support for the Intifada and urged Western governments to sever all relations with Israel, to which Israel expressed regret. In Pakistan, Maulana Azeem Qadri, the leader of a Sunni sect, and some of his followers were killed in an armed attack.

Media Coverage of Khatami's Possible Resignation

Today, state newspapers speculated about Mr. Khatami's possible resignation, seemingly to stir excitement among the public and provoke individuals who have grown indifferent due to their disillusionment with Mr. Khatami's actions.