On the Anniversary of the 1979 Revolution for Freedom, over 50 U.S. House Members Voiced Bipartisan Support for the Continued Desire of the Population for a Secular, Democratic Republic in Iran
On February 11, 2022, at a virtual conference on the Anniversary of anti- dictatorial 1979 Revolution, a bipartisan group of over 50 U.S. House members voiced support for the continued desire of the population for a secular, democratic republic in Iran.
The lawmakers, mostly members from key House committees of Foreign Affairs, Armed Services, Homeland Security, Appropriations, and Select Committee on Intelligence, emphasized that the Iranian people are ever more determined to fulfill their desire for freedom and democracy.
Members of the House called for a firm policy vis a vis clerical regime and its henchman President Ebrahim Raisi, amid growing bipartisan concerns in the US Congress over Iran’s nuclear threat, destabilizing missile program, and increased regional aggression.
Event’s Keynote speakers was Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the President Elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). Forty-three years ago, she said, “the Shah dictatorship was overthrown by the Iranian people’s nationwide uprising. The Iranian people revolted against a violent tyranny. They sought freedom and democracy. But since the Shah had practically destroyed all democratic movements, he paved the way for a reactionary mullah to take power.” These same mullahs’ regime has now, “lost its entire base and only relies on suppression to survive,” she added.
Mrs. Rajavi referenced the ongoing nuclear talks with Iranian regime and said, “the only correct step to permanently stop Tehran from getting the bomb was the reimposition of the Security Council Resolutions, an end to enrichment, the dismantling of the nuclear sites and anytime, and anywhere inspections.”
Legislators reaffirmed their support for the H.Res.118 which has the majority endorsement of 251 House members and recognizes Madam Rajavi’s 10-point plan for future of Iran.
In his remarks, Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA) said that, “For too long, the Iranian people have been deprived of their fundamental freedoms, for which reason they rejected dictatorship in 1979 and oppose religious tyranny today. And that’s why I became the chief sponsor of House Resolution 118, expressing support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran and condemning violations of human rights and state-sponsored terrorism by the current Iranian regime.”
Representative Randy Weber (R-TX) said, “The 1979 Anti dictatorial revolution was genuine and deep rooted in the desire of the Iranian people for freedom, democracy, and human rights.” But the clerics he added, “stole the leadership of the revolution and consolidated power in the first few months after the revolution, eliminating any voices of dissents, repressed the intellectuals and democratic forces and waging war on the Iranian people.” Mr. Webber referenced Iran’s largest opposition group and said, “The leading democratic forces, particularly the MEK were the main targets of repression as tens of thousands of their members and supporters have been killed.” About Congressional reole, Mr. Webber emphasized the Iranian people have, “rejected monarchic dictatorship and are opposing religious tyranny.” The resolution (H.Res.118) he added, expresses “support for the opposition leader Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s 10-point plan for the future of Iran, which calls for the universal right to vote, free elections, and a market economy, and advocates gender, religious, and ethnic equality, a foreign policy based on peaceful coexistence, and a nonnuclear Iran.”
Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) expressed her, “strong opposition to the Iranian government’s promotion of terrorist activities and its violation of human rights, and added, “It’s important for Congress to acknowledge that these rights violations are unacceptable and that the continual crackdown of peaceful protests in Iran must end. Together, we must promote peace and democracy.”
Representative Greg Pence (R-IN) told the audience he joins Iranian community to mark, “the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution. This revolution ended the monarchy in Iran with tremendous bravery and sacrifice. This month I stand with the Iranian American communities across Indiana and the nation in recommitting the cause of freedom that was usurped by religious fascism ruling Iran.” That is why, he added, “myself and 180 of my republican colleagues cosponsored H.Res.118, standing on the side of the Iranian people.”
Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) said, “I stand with the people of Iran in their quest for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran. I stand with the people of Iran who continue to hold legitimate and peaceful protests against an oppressive and corrupt regime… As we reflect on the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution, know that we in Congress are with you in the pursuit of freedom and self-determination.”
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX): … I am a proud cosponsor of the House Resolution 118, the resolution that focuses on the absolute necessity for democracy in Iran. It is so very important to promote the people who love democracy and in this anniversary of the 1979 popular anti-dictatorial revolution where people stood up to be able to fight for democracy…
Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY): I proudly cosponsored the bipartisan House Resolution 118, a resolution condemning Iran state-sponsored terrorism, and expressing support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, nonnuclear Republic of Iran… As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I will continue to work with you to support freedom, prosperity, and a brighter future for all of the Iranian people.
Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT): I’m honored to join you virtually today on the anniversary of a historic day in Iran’s history, when Iranians joined together to speak out and fight against tyranny. A day that began with such hope and optimism was trampled by religious extremists, pedaling cruel despotism by the illusion of a theocratic republican constitution… I was proud to cosponsor the bipartisan House Resolution 118, legislation condemning Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism and expressing support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, nonnuclear Iran.
Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA): February marks the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution, which saw the end of a monarchical dictatorship and the beginning of the repressive Islamic republic… As the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, and the Environment and Cyber, I remain committed to ensuring the United States stand in support of recognizing the rights of the Iranian people and their struggle to establish a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear Iranian republic.
Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL): I am a patriot, and I am somebody who’s a fighter for liberty all across the globe. And it is really my honor and I believe it’s my duty to stand with all of the Iranian people across the globe who are still fighting for freedom and liberty in the republic of Iran.
I’m a proud cosponsor of House Resolution 118, which is affirming the need to having a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran. It is important that
the United States stand firm in solidarity with the Iranian people who just seek to be free, who want to have a government that’s actually working for them.
Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE) said, “For over 40 years, the Iranian people fought for fundamental freedoms. They rejected a monarchic dictatorship and religious autocracy. In recent years, protests hostile to the Iranian regime spread like wildfire, reaching 100 cities across the nation… We should always be fighting for a republic, nonnuclear, and secular Iran.
I will continue to work with my colleagues on the House Armed Services Committee and other members of Congress to push forward an investigation into the disgraceful actions of President Raisi and his involvement in the 1988 massacre.”
Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-CA): … In response to the Iranian people’s declaration of their fundamental freedoms, I join 250 of my colleagues in cosponsoring HR 118. This bipartisan bill will condemn Iran’s state-sponsored terrorism while supporting the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic and nonnuclear Republic of Iran. Ebrahim Raisi must be removed from office and tried for his decades of crime against humanity.
Congressman Earl Carter (R-GA): February marks the anniversary of the 1979 revolution in Iran which toppled its monarchy… We take time this month to recognize and honor the bravery and sacrifice of the revolutionaries who fought for the rights of their fellow Iranians. We also want to bring attention to the religious fascism that has since taken power…I have the utmost respect for Iranians who peacefully combat this tyrannical regime and know that I stand with you. The rights of the Iranian people are in jeopardy, and I support any peaceful effort to reestablish a secular, democratic republic of Iran that respects the religious freedoms of her people.
Congressman Greg Steube (R-FL): As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and vice ranking member of the Middle East, North Africa, and Global Counterterrorism Subcommittee, I stand with the people of Iran as they continue to hold legitimate and peaceful protests against an oppressive regime. I recognize the rights of the Iranian people and their struggle to establish a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran… On this anniversary of the 1979 revolution for freedom in Iran, we must not turn our backs on the Iranian people as they push to destabilize and delegitimize this corrupt regime.
Congresswoman Angie Craig (D-MN) said she is working in Congress to, “support peace and stability in the Middle East by cosponsoring HR 118, a resolution stating in no uncertain terms that the United States Congress is on the side of the Iranian people in their ongoing struggle to bring fundamental and lasting change to the home country. In cosponsoring this resolution, I stand alongside members of both parties in condemning the human rights abuses of the Iranian regime, including their violent actions to suppress a peaceful, democratic protest movement in 2019, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,500 innocent Iranians.”
Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ): This month marks the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution, which ended the monarchist dynasty in Iran. For many years, Iranian citizens have been deprived of their fundamental freedoms and have experienced attacks on their human rights. Throughout the Iranian revolution, the bravery and the sacrifice from the people of Iran has been second to none. Therefore, I am proud to be a cosponsor of House Resolution 118.
Congressman John Curtis (R-UT): The Iranian people have been deprived of their fundamental freedoms by an oppressive government… I stand with the people of Iran who are continuing to hold legitimate and peaceful protests against an oppressive and a corrupt regime, and I recognize the rights of the Iranian people and their struggle to establish a democratic, secular republic of Iran.
Representative Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) said in his remarks, “every single person who expresses a solidarity with the cause of a free Iran, my gratitude. I am with you. This is a regime that has oppressed the people of Iran for way too long. This is a regime that has spread terrorism around the planet for way too long. This is a regime that must go. So to every single one who supports the cause of a free Iran, know that you have me on your side. Iran must and will be free because of people who are not willing to just wait until that moment, but who are willing to stand up and express solidarity with the cause of a free, democratic Iran.”
Representative Tim Burchett (R-TN) called the regime in Iran, a bunch of thugs. They sponsor terrorism and they oppress their citizens. Iranian citizens, I think they deserve basic human rights as all Americans do, and I condemn the current regime’s treatment of the freedom-loving Iranians.”
Congressman Mark Garcia (R-CA): It has been 43 years since the revolution but the fight for rights and freedoms continues today… In 1979 the Iranian people stood up with bravery and sacrifice to end the Shah’s single party dictatorship…
The Iranian people have the same desire today for a democratic multi-party system that they did 43 years ago. We saw this through the extensive boycott of the June 2021 elections and the continued uprisings by the people.
Congressman Mo Brooks (R-AL): This February marks 43 years since the people fought in the bloody Iranian revolution for freedom, liberty, and a democratic Iran, but instead ultimately lost to despotism, oppression, and unwarranted aggression towards America… Their sacrifice for freedom is not in vain. Iranians around the world still seek freedom in a truly republican form of government in which individual rights are paramount.
Congressman Neal Dunn (R-FL): This morning marks the anniversary of the 1979 revolution for freedom in Iran. When I think back to this event, I think of the tremendous courage, sacrifice, and perseverance displayed by the people of Iran…
I encourage you to keep fighting for your fundamental freedom. We must continue to speak out against tyranny, corruption, crimes against humanity. We must continue to fight for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL): Today we commemorate the anniversary of the 1979 revolution for freedom in Iran. We say no to shah’s single-party dictatorship, no to mullahs’ theocracy, and yes to democracy and a republican form of government. I am proud to be a cosponsor of House Resolution 118 to express support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran. And I support the resolution’s condemnation of violations of human rights and state-sponsored terrorism by the Iranian government .
Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC): This February, we recognize the anniversary of the Iranian revolution and its mark in history, fighting for a free and a democratic government… I support the bravery of those who stand up in the name of freedom against oppressive and controlling regimes.
Representative Blain Luetkemeyer (R-MO) noted during his remarks that, “For decades, the Iranian government has been a state sponsor of terrorism and malign influence across the Middle East, and the Iranian people continue to be deprived of their fundamental freedoms as a result.” “I will continue to support efforts to extend sanctions against Iran and support the freedom the people of Iran deserve,” he said.
Congressman Raul Ruiz (D-CA): Today we commemorate the anniversary of the 1979 revolution for freedom in Iran… I commend the continued sacrifice the Iranian people make to achieve a republic that would best deter another tyrant… That is why I cosponsored H.Res.118, which underlines a plan to promote a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran. This resolution condemns past and present Iranian state-sponsored terrorist attacks against United States citizens and officials as well as Iranian dissidents…
Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL) said, “It is essential that we memorialize the thousands of Iranians who have lost their lives over the past decades. The United States must always stand with those who exercise their political rights. The Middle East and the entire world will benefit from leaders and countries that respect freedoms we all hold so near and dear. We must continue doing everything we can to speak out against Iran’s human rights abuses and hold the regime to account.”
Congressman Russ Fulcher (R-ID): The people of Iran must have the right to determine their own future and to ensure that their rights of expression, religious belief, political opinion, assembly, and a representative government are truly respected. The barbaric imprisonment and execution of the courageous prodemocracy activists must finally end. I stand with the Iranian people against the dictatorship in Iran for freedom, democracy, human rights, prosperity, and a nonnuclear republic of Iran. Iran will be free.
Congressman Scott Perry (R-PA): Taking a moment to acknowledge what happened in 1979. I remember well. The Iranian revolution for freedom. They wanted to throw off the chains of one-party rule, where they could actually choose their leadership and who oversaw their country and who governed it. Of course, it didn’t work out the way that they had hoped it would… But at this time it’s important to acknowledge that the revolution was about freedom for the Iranian people, and they still want that.
Congressman Scott Peters (D-CA): Since 1979, the Iranian people have yearned for the opportunity to live in a democratic, secular, nonnuclear republic, free from oppression by kings, dictators, and religious extremists. Men, women, children, Kurds, Bahai, Christians, Jews, and Muslims have all suffered for decades at the hands of an oppressive regime solely focused on maintaining absolute power rather than helping the Iranian people.
In his remarks, Congressman French Hill (R-AR) said, “November of 2019, the world witnessed one of the countless examples of the mullahs’ continued brutality when roughly 1,500 Iranians were killed during a protest against the tyrannical regime. I condemn the regime’s further abuses against their own people, including the executions of political prisoners, the kidnapping of Iranians with dual citizenship with other countries, and the continued suppression of anti-regime political demonstrations. The ayatollahs, the mullahs, and the military all continue to profit at the expense of ordinary Iranian people. No wonder they’re calling more for more accountability. I stand with the Iranian people, and I’ve introduced bipartisan legislation like H.R. 4592, the Holding Iranian Leaders Accountable Act. This will provide transparency into the corruption and illicit behavior of the leaders in Iran. I’m also proud to support and cosponsor legislation in support of the Iranian people. House Resolution 118 expresses support for the people of Iran.”
Congressman Steve Womack (R-AR): To all those watching, we support the Iranian people and their pursuit of democracy and holding the Iranian regime accountable for its many abuses. It’s the moral thing to do, and it’s also critical to international security. Thank you for all you do to confront this corrupt regime and support the Iranian people, who are dedicated to creating a true republic.
Congresswoman Chris Stewart (R-UT) said he is, “supporting HR 118, which condemns the human rights abuses in Iran. It recognizes Iran as a state-sponsored terrorism. It’s an effort to highlight and to bring pressure on the leadership of Iran that it’s denying these basic rights to their own people. We’ve had millions of instances since then in which the Iranian people have tried to rise up, tried to call for these protections for themselves, for those families, for their children. 1988, the massacre. In ’99, in 09, and 2017, thank you for having the courage to support the people of Iran. We fight with you. We want to support you.”
Congressman Tom Emmer (R-MN): In this Congress, I again cosponsored a resolution to the U.S. House of Representatives condemning the state-sponsored terrorism that has plagued Iran for decades and expressing support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, nonnuclear republic. Together, we can look forward to the day when all Iranians will be able to live without fear.
Congressman Tony Cardenas (D-CA): For far too long, the Iranian people have been deprived of fundamental freedoms. The Iranian people deserve the right to vote, to be confident that their elections are free and fair and to experience gender, religious and ethnic equality. I join you to call for a democratic, secular, nonnuclear republic in Iran. I’m so proud to be one of the members of Congress who has supported and will continue to support meaningful democratic change in Iran.
Congressman Debbie Lesko (R-AZ) reminded the audience that she is, “an original cosponsor of House Resolution 118, the resolution that condemns Iranian state-sponsored terrorism and supports freedom for the Iranian people. I want to applaud you for everything that you are doing in your communities and throughout the nation. Please know that I support freedom for the Iranian people.”
Congressman Van Taylor (R-TX): Today it is my honor to join you in supporting a secular, democratic, and nonnuclear republic of Iran… Like you I believe the people of Iran should have the fundamental right to express their beliefs, both political and religious, without fear of oppression.
Congresswoman Ashly Hinson (R-IA) expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and said, “I stand with the people of Iran against the tyrannical Iranian regime. I have and will continue to condemn this regime for its egregious human rights abuses against its own people. The brutal regime has worked time and time again to stomp out any resistance to their tyranny and it silences dissent. Despite this threat, the Iranian people continue to fight for their voices to be heard and for their rights. The people are heroic and inspiring, a beacon of hope for Iran and for freedom fighters everywhere around the world.”
Congressman William Timmons (R-SC): I believe the Iranian people should determine the future of Iran and I support their desire to end the tyranny and establish a democracy in Iran. This is why I am proud to cosponsor House Resolution 118, the resolution before Congress to express the support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear republic of Iran and condemns violations of human rights and state-sponsored terrorism by the Iranian government.
Congresswoman Judi Chu (D-CA): I’m so proud to join with my Iranian American friends to mark the anniversary of Iran’s 1979 revolution. While many of those who courageously set out to reestablish democracy in Iran were fighting for a secular and free republic, the ideas of the revolution were quickly coopted by the Ayatollahs, who instead ruled through violence, repression, and religious tyranny. And in fact, just nine years later in 1988, this regime was guilty of one of the worst political massacres in history, killing thousands of political prisoners who had dared to speak out.
Congresswoman Lisa McClain (R-MI): This month marks the 43rd anniversary of Iran’s revolution, a revolution that began with the desire for religious freedom. Unfortunately, that revolution was usurped by a radical religious regime. I’m a proud cosponsor of House Resolution 118 and a proud supporter of the freedom for the Iranian people.
Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA) told the audience, “Today, on the anniversary of the 1979 revolution for freedom in Iran, we recognize and remember the sacrifice of Iranians that protested for freedom and change, a movement that was sadly hijacked by religious extremists…America, along with the people of Iran, will continue to push for the same freedom that the Iranian people first marched for in 1979. And I will continue to advocate on the Foreign Affairs Committee for policies that pressure and deter the Iranian government and its elites and support the Iranian people in their quest for a better government and better life.”
Representative Ken Buck (R-CO) said he dreams, “the same dream as you, that one day the people of Iran will have the opportunity to determine their country’s future for themselves apart from a tyrant rule. On this anniversary, I want the Iranian American community of Colorado to know that the United States believes fervently that the pursuit of inalienable rights is worth fighting for. And we condemn the human rights violations that have historically taken place and continue to occur in Iran, and we stand with the Iranian people in their fight for freedom. It is my greatest hope that the next 43 years of Iran’s history will not be further scarred by repression and terror but rather will be marked by the freedom and prosperity for the people of Iran.”
In his message, Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA) said he is, “proud to stand with the citizens of Iran in their quest for democracy. As a cosponsor of H.Res.118, I condemn the human rights violations and state-sponsored terrorism by the Iranian Government. There must be accountability and justice for all victims who have suffered at the hands of the regime.”
In a message, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) referenced the bravery of the Iranian people and said, I am pleased to stand with the Iranian Americans against religious tyranny and for freedom, democracy, and prosperity in Iran.” READ MORE
For generations, the Iranian people have struggled for freedom and democracy, said Congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux said in a written message. Shed added, “The current Iranian regime has violated the rights of its citizens and suppressed dissent by imprisoning and executing thousands of its critics…I support the Iranian people in their struggle for democracy and freedom.”
It’s my honor to recognize all of those who are gathered as we commemorate the 43rd anniversary of the people of Iran marching to the streets for their freedom and against an oppressive regime,” Representative Nicole Maliotakis (R-NY) said in her remarks. She then added, “as the leader of the free world, we also must be a strong voice for democracy and freedom around the world. I stand with the Iranian people in their quest for freedom and particularly, under this new President Raisi, we need to ensure that America’s voice is louder than ever.”
Representative Tony Gonzales (R-TX) told the audience he is committed to working with his colleagues in congress to ensure the Iranian people, “have the right to establish a secular, democratic, republic Iran.”
Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-CA) referenced the need to America’s involvement in ensuring human rights and democracy in Iran. He said, “This is a very appropriate moment to recommit ourselves as a nation to support not only the millions of Iranian Americans that are here in this country but also the people of Iran in their stand against oppression and tyranny.”
In a written message, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (D-CA) addressed the Iranian Americans participating in the event and said, “Your voices together with mine to bring about more democratic values and changes in Iran, placing the pressures that are necessary on the regime, and also to keep it a nonnuclear state are all very important issues to you and to me.”
Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX) told the audience that, “For those who are fighters, who are around the world who still work for the freedom for the Iranian people, we stand behind you. We stand behind you not only for those opportunities but also because you care so much about freedom and opportunity.”
Congressman Ken Calvert (R-CA) said, “the people of Iran deserve better than living under a tyrannical terrorist regime. Like all people, the people of Iran are entitled to liberties. The people of Iran should be able to choose their own future through democracy. Rest assured; I’ll continue to stand with the people of Iran in their fight for these rights.”
In her message, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) said, “I am proud to represent Texas’ Seventh Congressional District and our large Iranian American community in Houston and Harris County. Although I cannot join you in person, I want to send my greetings to this gathering of the Iranian Americans of Texas. On behalf of our community, I was glad to join as an original co-sponsor of House Resolution 118, expressing support for the Iranian people’s desire for a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear Republic of Iran and condemning violations of human rights and state-sponsored terrorism by the Iranian government. I am glad to join with my constituents and colleagues in standing with the people of Iran engaging in peaceful protest and working to establish a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear Republic of Iran.”
In a message, Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (D-CA) noted, “As a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and Acting Head of the U.S. delegation to NATO PA, I am committed to advocating for the protection of human rights, both at home and abroad. As I work with my colleagues to address longstanding injustices, I am proud to stand with a bipartisan majority in the United States Congress who support the Iranian people’s pursuit of a free and fair society that recognizes and protects human rights. Over the past several years, we have seen historic acts of bravery by Iranian citizens demanding a better future for themselves, their families, and their loved ones. On this anniversary of the 1979 Revolution for Freedom in Iran, I am proud to stand with the people of Iran who are continuing to hold legitimate and peaceful protests against an oppressive and corrupt regime. We must recognize the rights of the Iranian people and their struggle to establish a democratic, secular, and nonnuclear Iran. I am proud to have joined over 250 of my colleagues in co- sponsoring House Resolution 118, which expresses support for democratic representation for Iranians and condemns human rights abuses committed by the Iranian government.” READ MORE
Anniversary of the 1979 Popular anti-Dictatorial Revolution in Iran
After 43 years, the desire of the Iranian people for democracy, multi-party republic is deeper than ever
1: The 1979 revolution was genuine:
The Shah’s monarchical dictatorship was overthrown because:
a: Had the notorious secret police SAVAK.
b: Tortured and killed political prisoners in Iran.
c: In 1975, Shah announced on television to a stunned nation the abolition of the multi-party system in Iran. Its replacement was a single-party, the Rastakhiz (Resurgent) Party, which led to the escalation of public animosities and eventually the fall of the regime.
The Shah was swept from power by a genuine popular revolution.
a: The protests were nationwide all over Iran which involved millions.
b: All sectors of the society, particularly the middle class were involved and unified in bringing down the monarchical dictatorship.
c: Shah resorted to killing the protesters (September 8, 1978 massacre in Jaleh Square in Tehran known as Black Friday), which only made things worse. He installed a military government of General Azhari in November 1978 which lasted less than two months.
d: The monarchy collapsed on February 11, 1979 paving the way for fulfilling the nationwide desire of the Iranian people for democracy, freedom and a republic form of government in Iran.
2: The mullahs stole the revolution and derailed it:
a: While the protests were growing, the main democratic and secular forces, including the intellectuals, such as the entire leadership of the opposition, the MEK, were either executed or were in Shah’s prisons, which created a vacuum of leadership in the society.
b: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini who was sitting idle in Iraq for years, saw the opportunity as the protests grew, and jumped on the bandwagon and stole the leadership of a genuine revolution.
c: Soon after the revolution and within two years, Khomeini consolidated power, eliminated any voices of dissent, and started an all-out repression against those who were involved in the overthrow of the monarchical dictatorship, particularly the MEK.
d: Since 1981, the clerical regime has killed over 120,000 people for their political views; only in summer 1988, based on a fatwa issued by then Supreme Leader Khomeini any political prisoner who maintained loyalty to the MEK had to be executed, and in a matter of weeks, they executed as many as 30,000 political prisoners (90% belonging to the MEK) in Iranian prisons.
e: Yet, by executing freedom fighters, neither the Shah nor the mullahs succeeded to end the desire of the Iranian people for freedom, democracy and a republic Iran.
3: Why Iran Will Not Go Back to Its Dark Past
a: The fact that the mullahs stole the leadership of that revolution and made things even worse, does not provide legitimacy to the deposed despot or those who associate themselves with it.
b: Iranian people’s desire for anti-dictatorial, democratic, pluralistic and multi-party republic form of government 43 years ago is even deeper today, evident in 8 major uprisings since Dec 2017.
c: Experiencing the mullahs over the past four decades, Iranians are no longer intimidated or afraid of their rulers. This explains the widespread boycott of the June 2021 elections and continued protests in Iran, and the existence of an organized force dedicated to freedom in Iran.
d: The people of Iran have for decades aspired for a positive revolutionary change like the American or the French revolutions. This desire is exemplified in the 10-point plan of Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran for future Iran, based on free elections, separation of church and state, gender equality, freedom of speech and religion, free market economy, peace in the Middle East, and a non-nuclear republic Iran.
