Hot Spots
01/01/2018
View from Iran on the Protests
From the Tehran Times, Jan. 1, 2017 [the Iranian government view]
Since Thursday, groups of protesters have held rallies in several cities across the country to voice their anger over rising prices, unemployment and corruption.
“Recent protests seem to be a threat, but they are actually an opportunity to see what the problem is,” (President) Rouhani said during a meeting with chairmen of the parliamentary committees.
He added, “All the protesters are not guided by foreign elements; a number of them are the people who came to the streets because of their (economic) problems.”
However, the president said the people did not come to the streets just because of economic problems. “One of the people’s demands is a more open atmosphere.”
The president added Iran’s economy is better than the global average, however, it does not mean that all the problems have been solved.
The president went on to say that the problems should be resolved through unity.
“If we all get united, I have no doubt that the people will support us. If necessary, the people will pour into the streets to defend the system, however, it does not mean to ignore voice of criticism and protest.
“We should listen to this voice and turn it into an opportunity. We should see what the problem is and also what the solution is.”
Rouhani said all bodies, in proportion to their responsibility, should join hands to resolve the problems facing the country.
“The Majlis (parliament), government, judiciary, armed forced and all those who have responsibility in this country should stand beside each other and become united.”
In his first reaction to protests, Rouhani told a cabinet meeting on Sunday that people should express their grievances in a way that it would lead to better living conditions for citizens and investment in the country.
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Brian Trumbore
