Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi – August 20, 1984

Mr. [Mohammed] Gharehi, the Minister of Oil, informed that they have learned from the OPEC circles - through the Algerians - that the Saudis have stated that it is necessary to work to relieve the pressure of Iranian oil so that Iran can meet its needs [through exporting oil]. [The Saudis] have told the Japanese that if they want to put pressure on Iran [regarding oil exports], they will see a reaction from the Arabs; Flexibility is important. There have also been reports from Egypt that they want to get closer to us.

In the public session of the parliament, I solved the problem [of the ministers] by referring to the representatives. The majority opined that the ministers [introduced to win the vote of confidence] should be presented today; Thus, the opponents were disarmed. Opponents and supporters spoke calmly. I also spoke in agreement with the proposed ministers; He gave a good opinion. We also gave the prime minister the supervision of the two ministries of defense and education. We declared the parliament closed for a month and I told the office to quickly provide the means of travel for the representatives who have delayed [their travel time].

In the evening, I worked in my office. Mr. Rabbani [Amlashi] came. I told them that we should deal with all the Islamic forces as a father. Mr. [Mohammed Baqir] Bahrami, the representative of Asadabad, came and complained about the [dominion] of the non-Imam line there. Mr. [Mohammed] Khazai, the representative of Rasht, came. He gave a report on the success of Farabi Institute in helping artists and activating filmmaking. [Mr. Ali Asghar Rahmani Khalili] the defeated rival of the representative came to Behshahr and complained that his rival was advertising for himself in my name.