IRON FIST

IRON FIST



In colloquial English, an "Iron Fist" refers to the authority exerted by a powerful, unforgiving governing figure. The supreme leader of Iran today fiercely warned and criticized those people who lead, participate, and even support the recent demonstrations against the result of the last week presidential election. Although he tried to reconcile the key figures of the dispute, he particularly said the opposition leaders would be held responsible if there was any further violence in the street. He gave full support to Mr. Ahmadi nejad and praised him for his service during the last four years. He threatened if the demonstrators did not leave the streets there would be very serious consequences.

This confrontational pattern of behavior is not unprecedented from the authorities of Iran. However, none of the political analysts expected such a harsh response from the spiritual leader of Iran. They did however predict he would support ahmadi nejad and call for calm until the Council of Guardians had investigated the complaints. The speech even by the regime’s standards was the most aggressive reaction anyone could have expected.

The reason behind such a reaction is that the supreme leader understands the real threat which has shaken the foundation of the regime; the recent events in Iran remind everyone including Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of the initial stages of the Islamic Revolution 30 years ago. He knows the rifts and divisions in the heart of the establishment compound the crisis. Therefore, there was a crucial need for him as the supreme leader to send a blunt and uncompromising message.

In fact, he said everything he could have said to draw a line and start a new chapter. He of course blamed the foreign powers for interfering and made the link between the enemies and lawbreakers. He has thrown the ball into the court of oppositions. Now it is their turn and particularly their leaders to either back down or stand up and continue to protest. In the light of this speech, the latter would result in a massive crack-down from the side of the regime. However, if they decide to call the demonstrations off, they would certainly damage their own reputation and bring huge disappointment among their supporters.

The “Iron Fist” is revealed; the velvet glove is off. The speech is a double edged- sword. Although it has terrifying potential for those who are still dissatisfied and feel betrayed with the outcome of the election, it can aggravate the situation and actually widen the gap inside the governing body of the regime.




The search of the Iranian people for justice and freedom continues.

Shahin M