Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi – March 25, 1983

Until 10:30 in the morning, I was at home studying for the Friday Prayer sermons. I led the Friday Prayer at the University of Tehran; the discussions on social justice were continued, and I elaborated on the Imam's statements on Nowruz. His remarks have strengthened our position against the supporters of capitalism. I spoke about the arrest of Sheikh Ragheb Harb, the Friday Imam of Jibshit, Lebanon, by Israel, and praised the support he has received from Lebanon's religious circles.

In the afternoon and evening, I spent time studying, resting, and reviewing the book "Values and Schools of Thought." I wrote this book in prison, and it is supposed to be published as a serialized column in the newspapers. The tone and content of the book toward Marxism and Marxists, especially the Soviet Union, are harsh. Although it would not have been a problem if I did not have my current responsibilities, under the present circumstances and considering the relations between the two countries, it should be moderated.

At night, news arrived that an earthquake had struck an area between Tehran and Amol—80 kilometers from Tehran—and that part of the mountains had collapsed onto the Haraz [Road], causing casualties among travelers [on this road] and inflicting extensive damage on the villages in the area.

Fa'ezeh and Hamid [Lahouti] had been supposed to come from Mazandaran to Tehran this afternoon. Effat had become somewhat worried; it turned out they were still in Gonbad. In the afternoon, Ahmad Agha came, and we talked about the war, the country's situation, and the Revolutionary Guard. He consulted me about entrusting the powers of the Commander-in-Chief to [Ayatollah] Mr. Khamenei; I expressed my agreement. They brought the reports from Parliament; I read them.