Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani - Thursday, January 9, 2003

Iraq & U.S. Relations: Mr. Jalal Talabani (PUK leader) visited and stated that war is inevitable if Saddam Hussein does not step down. He conveyed a message from the U.S. asserting they have no ill intentions toward Iran. Rafsanjani questioned the true U.S. objectives, noting that a free Iraq with Islamic and anti-Zionist sentiments would likely not align with American interests.

Iraqi Opposition: Mr. Reza Seyfollahi reported on a meeting regarding Iraq held in the presence of the Supreme Leader. He discussed the role of Mr. Majid al-Khoei (son of Ayatollah al-Khoei), whom the West allegedly views as a potential rival to the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI) to represent the Shiite community.

Domestic Issues: Representatives of the "Islamic Society of Educators" criticized the Minister of Education for the politicization of the ministry and neglect of teachers' needs and students' religious ethics.

International Incidents: A Boeing crash in Diyarbakir, Turkey (76 fatalities), a mid-air collision of Israeli fighter jets, and an aviation accident in the U.S. were noted.

Global Economy: The EU warned Germany about its budget deficit and high unemployment (over 10%). Public dissatisfaction in Germany regarding the switch from the Mark to the Euro was highlighted. Additionally, Australia became a wheat importer due to severe drought.