The Iranian Body Snatchers at Work
In their desperate search for a way to quell the growing revolt of the Iranian people against the Islamic Republic, the regime’s storm troopers are arresting, beating and assassinating the families of the leaders of the Green Movement. Sunday, as millions of Iranians took the opportunity of the Ashura mourning day to take to the streets, a hit team gunned down the nephew of Mir Hossein Mousavi.
Seyed Ali Moussavi Habibi was witnessing a 4WD Neissan Patrol car running over a few people in front of his house before being shot and killed with the same people in the car. After running over a few people 5 people get off the car and one of them comes very close to Seyed ali Moussavi and shoots him with a gun in a way that the bullet passes through his chest and comes out from his back. Then all 5 get on the car and run away.
Seyed Ali’s corpse was taken to a hospital, where all could verify the nature of his mortal wound, and the regime ghouls decided to cover up the evidence. They carted off the body, saying they wanted to investigate the circumstances of his death. Yes, really.
The demonstrations raged over three days, including today, and you can find good videos all over the net. Here are two examples:
* Tehran, the evening of Ashura
The online coverage was excellent, from the New York and London Times to the Guardian, all of whom liveblogged it. And today there was plenty of reportage. I will leave you to their tender mercies. There are several key points to make, and then I will look forward.
First, in line with my basic sermon these many years, if you study the videos you will see many many women in the front ranks. They have every reason to be there, as the Islamic Republic (as so many Islamic regimes) is built on the sludge of misogyny.
Where’s Bambi?
I find it utterly inbelievable that our government does not do SOMETHING to support these brave freedom fighters. Obama’s talking points are becoming an embarrassment. It would be in the best interest of the USA to find a way to support and fund a regime change in Iran. It may result in a future peaceful ally and regime . These people are willing to die for their freedom and the rest of the world just watches and offers no help. Shameful.
ichael has been right about Iran since 1979, and no American President has taken effective measures but only Carter approached this craven appeaser for gutlessness and suicidal naivete. Doug Glant
A fine piece, as always. Two things will definitely take the mullahs down: 1- Military (regular army) joining the people, 2- Any strike in business sector. One of this must happen sooner or later. People need to be energized and find hope in going ahead.
..the nerve and the common sense to denounce the regime and call for regime change.
That would sound too much like Bush. And we all know what a stupid chimp cowboy *he* was.
Iran is less developed — it has not yet learned how to control its people with the facade of a two-party ‘Vichy’ government (and media) to better hide its authoritarian impulse.
Iran apparently also does not have WWF, NASCAR, TV reality shows, or 24×7 ‘news’ coverage of celebrity gate crashers in the palace to more politely distract their citizens from mass protests.
The ruling-elite Empire here could give some of their more advanced “Brave New World” style ‘soft power’ PR and control techniques to Ahmadinejad and Iran, so that they would have less need to use the older, Orwellian “1984”, ‘hard power’ techniques.
After all, it’s been almost four decades since Kent State and Black Panther control techniques have had to be used on the now-complacent and “Quiet American” populace.
However, all real Americans left, who have not been distracted or dumbed-down by our own modern, global, sophisticated, two-party, ‘Vichy’ Empire, empathize with the average working-class Iranians and we hope that your fight against the old-style visible elitist Empire in your own country is as successful as our ancestors’ was against the foreign, highly visible ‘red coat’ old-style British Empire that we overthrew.
Many people in many countries have overcome domestic dictators, and even visible foreign empires, and you will succeed independently, driven by your own frustration, courage, honesty, and solidarity.
The best we American people can do currently is to try to keep this damn disguised Global Empire from mucking you up. Please have similar empathy as we try to overcome the more guileful Global corporate/financial/militarist Empire that currently has our country (and others) by the throat.
Alan MacDonald
Sanford, Maine
The people of Iran have already crossed out Obama as someone who matters to the revolution -they hope he just shuts up and does not keep on begging and groveling for discussions with the “Islamic Republic”; the man is so far behind the realities of the day -people in the streets are shouting down with the Islamic Republic and our “Coward in Chief” wants to negotiate with those rapists and murderous thugs!
Eternal shame on Obama and may he suffer as big a defeat in 2012 as Jimmy Crater -the original “Coward in Chief”.
An excellent encapsulation of the events. One almost wants to believe the Iranian people may be able to throw off this yoke of oppression yet that is still way too optimistic.
Ironically, wanted to write also about Obama on the beach on this matter. He is so steadfast in his belief of his grand cult of personality, he holds back from any condemnation of the mullahs.
We beg the forgiveness of the Iranian people. And we ask for God’s protection and your deliverance from evil.
Michael, those who want to see, I think it is safe to say, have concluded that Khameini et al., have the same lack of credibility that the Brezhnev apparatchik referred to by Daniel Hannan, in his 3 and a half minute rebuttal of British Prime Minister at the European Parliament, possessed. Which also describes the lack of credibility of those “leaders” who cluck their tongues in sympathy.
The actions which have been taken by Western governments to deal with Khameini et al., as far as I can tell are only that California county to divest its pension plan from Iranian
energy companies, and the vote in the Dutch Parliament to list the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization. Other than that, they are worn out funks not willing to stand up to the false piety of the 20th and 21st centuries – namely Political Correctness.
“The supreme leader has violated a whole series of previously sacrosanct rules.”
He must destroy the Faith in order to save it.
Hmmm… why would the POTUS condemn violence if it is enacted in a quest for freedom. Is all violence bad?
Even then, Michael, PBO’s statement was almost perfunctory. I don’t think he’s yet grasped that his beloved engagement without preconditions strategy is dead. Stillborn, even. He truly is bringing to mind Carter’s cluelessness during the embassy seizure.
It’s embarrassing that an American president isn’t out front, using the bully pulpit to support the aspirations of the Iranian people against tyrants.
Michael,
The information about the Molotov Cocktail was welcomed new news.
Sounds like the gloves are coming off.
Nice to see the Iranians fight back.
Regards.
Back in the June I wrote an article that said that Iranian revolution has a pretty good chance of success. Michael Ledeen was kind enough to link to my article in his entry back then. In case, somebody is interested, here is the link to the article…
http://hyphenatedamericans.blogspot.com/2009/06/can-iranians-win.html
Here is the introduction to the article:
I am not an Iranian, but I was born, raised and educated in the USSR, so I believe my experience could help in figuring out the nuts and bolts of the current events in Iran.
Can Iranians defeat the mullahs? I most surely believe so. Here are my reasons.
Mr. Leeden,
I really don’t think that you have any credibility to lecture anyone about this issue. In a past article you have advocated committing terrorism against Muslims. Not terrorists or the state sponsors of terrorism but just Muslims. Frankly, I think the only think useful about your article is that you showcase to your readers that the problem with terrorism is really not Islam but terrorists and their state sponsors. Otherwise, why are those Iranian protesters shouting “death to the dictator” instead of the usual slogans we see on television?
Hey, independent, what are you drinking? Got any evidence? Can you afford libel damages?
I heard of some military officers coming out for the protesters, and enlisted men refusing orders to fire on protesters, did anyone hear of anything more on these events, if they happened?
On a sad note we can expect that if the revolution is successful the MSM will attribute it to Obama’s inspiring moral guidance.
Obama only pulled himself away from his leisure because his administration is being criticized for their response, or lack thereof, to the attempted terrorist attack. There are only two things that get Obama to the mic:
1. His ego and his radical agenda.
2. Criticism.
Have we crossed the threshold for high treason yet?
Impeachment now.
Where’s smiley Ahmadinejad?
good question, edh.
“Obama finally came out with the usual condemnation of violence and reiteration of human rights. Fine for academics and scribblers, not good enough for a leader.”
It only took him six months!
Revolution in Iran – quoting Lenin
When discussing the situation in Iran, it is a worthwhile exercise to study the works of famous revolutionaries. The most talented of them all, Vladimir Lenin, the father of the communist revolution in Russia, proposed a concept of what he called “The Revolutionary Situation”. According to Lenin, if and only if such a situation arises, it is possible to destroy the existing regime through the uprising.
According to Lenin, there are three objective signs of a revolutionary situation (my translation):
1. The inability of the political elite to continue its rule over the people – i.e. the elites cannot force, and the people would not agree to the status quo.
2. Dramatic increase of economic hardship for the working class.
3. Dramatic rise of people’s political activity and their readiness to spontaneous revolutionary actions.
So far, it seems all three conditions are satisfied for Iran. The elites are split, the loss of oil revenues wrecked the economy, the masses cannot take it any more, and there is a massive increase in the number and intensity of demonstrations. So far, three for three. Not too bad.
What is left to find out is whether Lenin’s “subjective conditions” are being satisfied. Quoting Lenin: “Are the revolutionary movement and its leadership strong enough to organize the massive uprising which will destroy the old government?”
It would appear that Mousavi is quite up to the task. Not only the dissident leader publicly said that he was ready to die for the revolution – he even smacked Obama for equating him with Ahmadinejad. It looks like Mousavi is ready to fight the mullahs and Obama at the same time. Attaboy!
I personally believe that Iranian dissidents may well win this time. God’s speed, comrades! Lets finish off the Islamo-Fascist-Theocracy. Death to Tyrants!
More articles on this subject from my blog:
http://hyphenatedamericans.blogspot.com/2009_06_01_archive.html
Revolution in Iran – quoting Lenin
When discussing the situation in Iran, it is a worthwhile exercise to study the works of famous revolutionaries. The most talented of them all, Vladimir Lenin, the father of the communist revolution in Russia, proposed a concept of what he called “The Revolutionary Situation”. According to Lenin, if and only if such a situation arises, it is possible to destroy the existing regime through the uprising.
According to Lenin, there are three objective signs of a revolutionary situation (my translation):
1. The inability of the political elite to continue its rule over the people – i.e. the elites cannot force, and the people would not agree to the status quo.
2. Dramatic increase of economic hardship for the working class.
3. Dramatic rise of people’s political activity and their readiness to spontaneous revolutionary actions.
So far, it seems all three conditions are satisfied for Iran. The elites are split, the loss of oil revenues wrecked the economy, the masses cannot take it any more, and there is a massive increase in the number and intensity of demonstrations. So far, three for three. Not too bad.
What is left to find out is whether Lenin’s “subjective conditions” are being satisfied. Quoting Lenin: “Are the revolutionary movement and its leadership strong enough to organize the massive uprising which will destroy the old government?”
It would appear that Mousavi is quite up to the task. Not only the dissident leader publicly said that he was ready to die for the revolution – he even smacked Obama for equating him with Ahmadinejad. It looks like Mousavi is ready to fight the mullahs and Obama at the same time. Attaboy!
I personally believe that Iranian dissidents may well win this time. God’s speed, comrades! Lets finish off the Islamo-Fascist-Theocracy. Death to Tyrants!
More articles on this subject in my blog:
http://hyphenatedamericans.blogspot.com/2009_06_01_archive.html
… And the masks, apparently, are coming on; also, great news. Do I smell a ball on the slope of a hill… seems unlikely those masks can every come off now.
Where is the voice of encouragement? Does not everyone, libs even, know what boost that provides to those whose spirits stand in the breach? Have we not all faced a, if even minute, oppressor? Where is the empathy?
Thanks Mr. Ledeen. Your insight into these matters, especially Iranian particulars, is possibly unmatched.
I am appalled that this peaceful demonstration was fired upon by police. My dear son-in-law has been arrested and we fear for his safety in prison as not many get out in one piece. Usually beaten to death by non Iranian guards. A peaceful protest becomes violent and Westerners ignore their plight. Leaders in the Western World should condemn the regime in charge and apply santions.
“I find it utterly inbelievable that our government does not do SOMETHING to support these brave freedom fighters.”
So this time next year when America looks like Iran does today, would it be OK for the Iranian revolutionary Guards to send help to one side of America’s next civil war? Keep in mind that the North won the last time because they prevented any European powers from helping the South.
Do you really want several nations backing sides in another American Civil war in hopes of having influence or control when the war is over?
BTW, no freedom fighters there. Just two different power blocks. Even if the out of power block wins, the only change will be who gets to steal the OIL money until the next go-around….
The Soviet Union fell because the Red Army refused to fire on Soviet Citizens. China didn’t fall because the Chinese Army murdered about 8,000 protesters over the course of 2 days. Think the Mullahs don’t know that?
In Iran the Revolutionary Guards are more then capable of killing enough protesters to settle the issue. If the Iranian Army decides to fight the Revolutionary Guard, the Army will win. So right now a small group of Generals hold the power in Iran.
You can bet the house that both sides are courting those Generals.
The Barbarians are at the gate, but the President calls the Christmas day bomber an “isolated extremist”. If so, why the assurance that the United States will do all in its power etc. One does not need a sledge hammer to kill an ant. The barbarians are at the gate and the President dithers. He makes noises which have no relation to reality.
16. Hyphenated American:
went to you blog …great !
thanks again Michael Ledeen.
Michael Ledeen,
Re: post #30, yes as a matter of fact I do. You have stated in a past article that you support committing acts of terrorism against Muslims. Specifically killing Muslims. Not terrorists or the state sponsors of terrorism but just Muslims. The real question is, can you afford to be man enough to admit doing so? Judging by you last comment, I doubt it.
just show it to us, Indy. i don’t believe it. i have always said the opposite. you’re either lying or mistaken or misled.
Why should Obama care what goes on over there ? He’s too busy trying to quell protests over here about his regime.
A friend of mine, an ex-Marine, tells me that every Iraqi houshold is allotted two AK-47s. We know Iraq is brimming with guns. Can’t SOMEBODY get the Iranian rebels some weapons?
the marine is wrong (much as i, with 2 of them in the family, love the Corps). And the iranians need comms, not guns.
Obama reconsidering sanctions in light of what is happening.
Looks like Mr Ledeen will be having a bad night. HAHAHAHA
I love it.
Now, you will see whether some people are rooting for Iranians or are having Israel’s interests at heart. This will unfold ….pay close attention to Mr Ledeen’s take on Obama’s review of sanctions to fully understand where he is coming from
don’t be coy, abbas, tell me what i am going to say; save me the trouble.
Frankly, I really do hope that the demonstrators succeed in overthrowing a régime dedicated to destroying Israel. If they do, they will save their own lives. If THIS régime in Iran gets too strong, we will have to destroy it. Another régime there, one less hostile to us here, will not be a threat.
My own hopes for some peace around here ride on these demonstrators who grow braver and braver with each confrontation.
Once again, as soon as something happens in Iran, all right-wingers take advantage of unloading on P. Obama!! Thus far, the only leader I see is making its move with complete intelligence; calculated, timely and AS NEEDED is P. Obama. Yet, no matter what, you guys have some other problems with him.
Now what is more disturbing is the new revelation that the airline bomber was escorted to the departure gate by a well-dressed Indian-looking man, as I heard it on NPR today interviewing an IRS attorney clearly described what he saw at the departure gate. Could this be something setup to make the president look bad and incompetent?
I like the analogy of Hyphenated American and how Lenin describes the “revolutionary” situation and how it can be utilized to get rid of a regime. Indeed all the three main ingredients are all coming to emulsification, as the first requirement getting really cooked and marinated.
Iranians show they are not using violence to respond to violence, as many of the youtube films show many police officers were protected against further attacks by people. This is GREAT!
In Dr. Ledeen post, he also linked to a site by Makhmalbaf, who is a famous Iranian Director and pro Green movement. On that very linked page, he has posted shocking DETAILS of ALL daily activities of Khamenei, according to his personal bodyguards that are now outside Iran. It is very long and detailed, yet loaded with shocking details of his psycho, spying techniques power management and how his sons are so involve with wealth accumulation and oppression.
This is disgraceful. The Iranian people want democracy and freedom and what does our Chicago politician do? Nothing. Absolutely nothing! Not one word of encouragement. All they need is some encouragement. Any kind word would help. Hope he’s enjoying his Hawaiian vacation.
But Obama said he stands with the protesters – I didn’t see him standing with them but what do I know, maybe he’s relentlessly pursuing OBL right now.
This video, referred to in footnote # 3 has been blocked by the “youtube community”. Unbelievable !!
[3] wounded or dead person: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZdj5sfM5rE&feature=player_embedded.
I strongly believe that “Mr. Independent” needs stronger medication then the stuff he consumed so far !
Independant: Dude, dude. When you make a cocktail of lies and opinion, you discredit the opinion. Bad form, man. Maybe next time?
Ledeen,
In the article below you wrote the following in comment #45: “I think it makes more sense to say, as I have tried to do, that radical Islam is the language used by many evil people to frame their ideology. There is a huge variety of people in the Muslim world. Our enemies define themselves very carefully–and they kill more Muslims than infidels–and we should do the same.”
http://pajamasmedia.com/michaelledeen/2009/11/12/feds-move-against-iranian-mosques-1st-amendment-rears-its-head/#comments
You didn’t write that “we” should kill more terrorists, just kill more Muslims. In the context of your comment, you were advocating terrorism. Do you stand by that comment? Considering I just caught you in a lie, I doubt you’ll suddenly be honest.
Independent: I guess i misjudged you; I actually thought you were a literate person. In that comment, as in the post itself, I was talking about “defining” our enemies–who, by the way, kill more Muslims than infidels. I was responding to someone who wanted to define all Muslims as enemies, with which I disagreed and still do. And thus I said–in plain English–that we should define our enemies very carefully. Define, not kill.
The post is about freedom of speech, and legal measures against radical islamists.
That Mousavi is calling for a strike is great news. A strike will hit the Revolutionary Guard where it hurts most, in their pockets. The Guard has its fingers in everything, a huge business and financial network that the U.S. and the UN can also target. Also there is legislation in congress that Obama has been opposing that would put pressure on firms supplying gas to Iran. It’s passed the House and is expected to pass the Senate. That is an area where the average American can make a difference, we need to get the President to sign this legislation.
I don’t think it’s a mystery why Obama took so long to comment. He probably couldn’t find Iran on an unlabeled globe. His surrogate thinkers back in Washington (Axelrod, Emanuel, Jarrett, et al) first had to meet and decide whether he should make a statement; then they wrote the statement; then they faxed it to Obama in Hawaii; then he had to memorize it in front of a mirror. And only then did he make “his” statement.
“Not a single Western “leader” has found the nerve and the common sense to denounce the regime and call for regime change.”
I fear you prefer to use an overly broad (and partisan) bludgeon on the U.S. President than actually help the Iranian people. After the various indiginities that have been heaped on the Iranian people for centuries up to and including the removal of Mossadegh, what they need least is some fool foreigner playing into the regime’s propaganda. I think it not only fine but admirable for you and me, as private citizens to wish for better and more accountable government for the people of Iran, but stop brow-beating Obama about ‘not saying enough’; that’s playing so stupidly into Khameinei’s and Ahmadenijad’s hands, it’s not even funny. In fact, it’s rather sad.
i want him to act, not just talk.
Also, even supposing the Green Movement came to power by whatever means, either Obama or the next POTUS will have to deal with the unpalatable fact that the majority of Iranians apparently want, not only nuclear power, but potentially a nuclear (weapon) deterrent. I wholeheartedly support the peoples of Iran (whatever their langauge or religion) in their quest for dignity but the fact is that their interests and the long-term interests of the United States may not always converge.
As to the person above making ironic comments about Obama wrt Bush, I do not recall it was the present president who rashly put Iran in a situation where they had wars on two fronts (shades of Schlieffen anyone?) conducted by an avowed enemy. I cannot entirely grant that the IRI regime are perfectly rationaly actors but they’re not entirely devoid of sensibility. Saddam was containable (esp. w/IRI on his eastern flank) while Afghanistan was inescapable.
So where was all the criticism when GWB didn’t make a direct comment about the shoe bomber for at least 6 days?
The Iranian election protests which demonstrated outward bravery of the citizens of Iran rising against the established powers, and then renewed uprisings this past week both demonstrate that the current government power base in Iran is starting to crumble. Since both of these things happen in concurrence with the Obama administration’s diplomatic policies, should we not pause to consider that maybe we are on the right track now? (As opposed to, say, watching the rise of Ahmadinejad’s power during the previous administration.)
Goodness, how on earth do those posting here (including Mr. Ledeen) find the nerve to comment about what we, the USA, should be doing for the people of Iran? Where do you all find the ability to disregard past failures of your ideology in practice (i.e; regime change in Iran 1953, Chile 1973, Iraq 2003 et al.) and continue to go full-steam ahead, seriously? Its truely amazing!
For those truely interested on what WE should do, here’s a short list:
1) Take a deep breath and avoid chest-thumping declarations of what the despots in Iran should do. A calm, measured response to their brutality and lack of respect for the will of the people is suffice. Anything more only plays into the hands of Makkk-mooood Azzhat and Co. The people of Iran know that we support them, duh!
2) Realize and accept that its the Iranian people’s fight, not ours. Not accepting reality only displays arrogance. Would you accept a foreign country funding and/or arming groups in our country? I think not.
3) Once new leaders are in place do not expect an automatic ally. Accept the fact that they will decide to act according to their own nation’s interests first, not any else’s.
4) Engage them in good faith.
If you cannot entertain any of the above, then expect disaapointment over your arrogant projected image of what YOU expect Iran to be after this revolution. Next, expect those that just patronize the Iranian people’s struggle for cheap political points or as a pretext for military action to begin the drumbeats for war, again.
Finally, as sick as it is to witness the brutality taking place now remember this, or look it up, the Shah (US backed) killed scores of innocent people during the ’79 revolution. Unfortunately, the price of revolution is paid for by the blood of the innocent. However, the will of the Iranian people won out in 1979 and it will win out again.
From the comments at Si Vis Pacem: “This administration doesn’t want the Iranian Freedom Fighters to win. That will energize those of us who believe in freedom and limited government even more.”
While Euro crowds riot for want of more government “services”, in America we Tea Party protest to limit government. The Iranian people are rather similar in that regard.
Recall Tienanmen. It’s a reminder of the kind of “service” big guv is best at providing. Iran, in contrast, isn’t giving-up, and will yet win.
In the big pattern of things, are we seeing a statism/tyranny bubble awakening populations globally? Is it a bubble, or is it stable?
The situation in Iran is very, very serious. This is the first time since 1979 that there has been a prolonged protest in the streets, and there is no end in sight. The Shah of Iran used to set his secret police onto the demonstrators in much the same way has Khamenei is setting the Basij onto the demonstrators.
From what I have seen, the military and the ordinary police are less enthusiastic about mowing down the demonstrators, but that is not the case with the Basij. This is pure evil.
Ever since the election the scales have come off the eyes of the people, as they have realized that their Grand Poohbah is not God… and when Khamenei the Grand Poohbah speaks and acts like God, the people seem to get more furious.
It is important for us, who are non-Muslim to understand this day of Ashura with regard to Shia vs. Sunni. Without that background we have little opportunity of understanding the politics of hatred between Shia and Sunni Moslems. The Iranians have followed the path of the Shia… yet we need to keep in mind that Khamenei and his regime have done so much damage that this is a people that could be ready to throw off the yoke of Islam… it is early days… we do not know their real direction.
What is very telling though, is the nightly chants which have been relentless since June… always the same… death to the dictator (Khamenei) and death to Ahmanutjob. There have been other chants when the people openly challenged the POTUS “are you with us or against us”.
Whilst some people think the lack of response by POTUS is sensible, well, I, a foreigner beg to differ on the issue. This is not about being gung ho, and sending in the troops to Iran… far from it… What is required from POTUS is the following:
1. a refusal to engage any further with Khamenei the grand poohbah and Ahmatnutjob. What should have happened in the first place after the election result, when it was obvious that ahmanutjob had stolen the election was a refusal to acknowledge any legitimacy for his government.
2. A stinging condemnation of the violence and the violations of human rights. This should include demands that the political prisoners that have been dragged from the streets and their homes be freed.
3. Going to the UN and sponsoring a resolution condemning the human rights violations in Iran.
What is the use of attempting to negotiate on the buildup of nuclear materials, when this is an illegitimate regime? Even the manner in which Khamenei came to power after the death of Khomenei is extremely questionable. He is just as illegitimate as Ahmanutjob.
What is most disturbing to me happens to be the nutty beliefs of both Khamenei and Ahmanutjob. They both belong to a sect that was outlawed by Khomenei – the sect that believes that the 12th imam is going to appear from a well. Both have been trying to manufacture the conditions that will bring about this “return”. This craziness could lead to an incident with world-wide implications, unless they are stopped…. and very soon.
The brave people of Iran have used various occasions to send a very different message. No longer does it look like the people are chanting “death to America”; and it now seems that those doing the chanting were indeed plants; instead they have been chanting things like “death to the dictator Khamenei”, and “death to Russia”.
The POTUS deserves to be criticized for his lack of concern over the treatment of the protesters. Not since Carter has there been such a weak POTUS, one who is sending all of the wrong signals. The Iranian leadership is laughing at the POTUS because of that very weakness. Carter made some really stupid mistakes, including the one concerning Khomenei, welcoming his return to Iran because he was “religious”. Now it seems that the present POTUS is set to make mistakes that are twice as stupid as Carter.
“So this time next year when America looks like Iran does today, would it be OK for the Iranian revolutionary Guards to send help to one side of America’s next civil war? Keep in mind that the North won the last time because they prevented any European powers from helping the South.
Do you really want several nations backing sides in another American Civil war in hopes of having influence or control when the war is over?”
The question is absurd. Your moral posturing, Samford, can have no effect on what foreign governments might do only about how you might feel about it.
NO EFFECT, SAMFORD!
independent—put up or shut up. Where are the links? The citations? Let’s see it or you risk being ignored as a troll or banned. Oh…and happy New Year to all.
to #52: Dear tominstl, you are right about the bravery of the Iranian people to fight for their freedom against such evil force of barbarity. However this has nothing to do with Obama or his policies or lack of. It is good for you to know that Iranians have been fighting for the last 30 years and this year’s culmination of all the fights before is just that. For example they revolted back in 1997 during Khatami and we never came to conclusion or should have come to conclusion that it was because of Clinton’s policies. As a matter of fact Clinton had a appeasement policy towards the barbarians and even his secretary of state madame “not so bright” apologized for her country’s past policies to naively perhaps gain some trust by the barbarians to no success. And then again the revolt kept on in small pockets of thousands in different cities throughout the years since 2001 and again nobody tried to credit George Bush for all of that.
So please accept that what is happening in Iran is solely by the bravery and 30 years frustration of the Iranian nation over their oppression by this brutal regime. As a matter of fact in many protests Iranians have been shouting: “Obama are you with them or with us? Choice is yours”!!!
These are important stuff to think about.
We do not need anything from Obama but a sincere support. Not claim solidarity with the people one day and then again think about what day would be a good day to negotiate with the terrorist barbaric regime over their nuclear issues. So far that is all Obama has done. Shallow condemnation of the regime and verbal of support of the Iranians one day, and then again choosing another day for another round of “dialogue” and “possible agreement” for the nuclear impasse when things cool down in the streets of Tehran. Therefore this is what we call appeasement and insincerity of this administration. We will get our country back with or without spineless world leaders. We will remember who steadfast stood with us and who did not.
Viva freedom & solidarity with Iranian freedom fighters!
To all freedom supporters, please read this piece in WSJ:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703278604574624171652809240.html?mod=wsj_share_facebook
Again another must read article!
Moment of decision is upon this administration. This decision can affect the condition of the world we live in and our humanity as well.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/omid-memarian/obamas-iran-dilemma-human_b_406644.html
I have gained a whole new respect for the people of Iran this year.
(The same goes to the Hondurans.)
Independent — seriously? That’s the quote you are libeling Michael Ledeen with? Why don’t you actually read the sentence:
“I think it makes more sense to say, as I have tried to do, that radical Islam is the language used by many evil people to frame their ideology. There is a huge variety of people in the Muslim world. Our enemies define themselves very carefully–and they kill more Muslims than infidels–and we should do the same.”
The “we should do the same” clearly modifies how to define enemies, not killing Muslims. In other words, you are trolling here, in a rather inept fashion that only highlights your inability to read a simple sentence. Stick to the Huffington
Post or Daily Kos.
“There is a huge variety of people in the Muslim world. Our enemies define themselves very carefully–and they kill more Muslims than infidels–and we should do the same.”
Indie, you have taken that statement out of context. Wittingly or not, that is what you have done. Mr Leeden is clearly referring to “Our enemies”. Deconstruct that quoted sentence. “enemies” is the subject of that sentence. NOT Muslims. Dependent clause(s) would apply to the Independent clause.
Mr Leeden and I have had our disagreements, but in all the years I have been Fisking him I have NEVER seen(read) him advocate the slaughter of innocents. I doubt that I ever will.
I’m not an English major, but back in the day I took my required courses.
“A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinator. The coordinators are as follows: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so. (Helpful hint: The first letter of each of the coordinators spells FANBOYS.) Except for very short sentences, coordinators are always preceded by a comma.”
It’s been 5 decades since I took English, so I’m not sure if that sentence qualifies as a complex sentence since the words “and we should do the same.” Might be a Adjective clause. It looks like a dependent clause, so there seems to be some wiggle room there.
Any English teachers in the house?
I would have made that at least 2 sentences. I am a fan of the 8 to 16 words in a sentence rule. You read that sentence as 3 independent sentences, That is why you are wrong. If they had been written as 3 independent sentences you would be correct.
So before you accuse anyone of genocide, make sure there aren’t alternatives. Your evidence isn’t evidence of what you claim. It is evidence of either a lack of formal training or bias. Training can be gained.
http://www.eslbee.com/sentences.htm
Michael, I took a peek at the Jerusalem Post, and I found this: http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1261364547899&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
The term is taqqiyah. Right?
just the usual lies.
I am going to join the chorus re: Independent.
I had to laugh when I saw the “quote” that was supposed to say what you alleged. Like Samford and others have stated, you have not read the sentence properly and you are reading into the comment something that is not there in order to make your false accusation. Really, it is no wonder that so many trolls are called leftards, because most of you cannot manage to read a sentence let alone construct one!!
Mr Leeden used the hyphen to make a secondary point about the fact that Muslims kill Muslims even as they condemn the west in what I consider to be hypocrisy. If he had used brackets instead the point would remain the same. His point is all too obvious, that he is addressing the way in which our enemies define themselves, not the point about Muslims killing Muslims.
Now go learn how to read and do sentence construction before you come back to this blog and make an even bigger fool of yourself.
I found this interview to be very illuminating, and there are some good ideas on what can be done without using military force
http://www.newenglishreview.org/custpage.cfm/frm/54121/sec_id/54121
Yediot AHronot reported that Iranian rebel leaders fled for northern Iran. Comments?
it’s false.
Re: #63 shiraz http://www.huffingtonpost.com/omid-memarian/obamas-iran-dilemma-human_b_406644.html
Following Cronkite’s report of Vietnam being unwinnable, President Lyndon Johnson is reported to have said, “If I’ve lost Cronkite, I’ve lost Middle America.” If Obama has lost the Huffington Post he is in huge trouble.
I’ve just read your story about what’s happening in iran right now i all i feel is sympathy for these people, i know some one from iran and he’s the sweetest most caring person i have ever met. but the way you described them in your story ur making them all sound so violent and also where do u come off criticising the Americans all they do is protect there country and send there men out to be honorable and to make peace with the wars in afganistan and other countries, no i do not live in the US. but Barrak Obama has got to be one of the better presidents i have learned about and have seen rule that country. so what’s next your going to come back and say that Canada or the Queen of England isn’t doing there jobs either to settle anything what are we suppose to do?? every single country has there own government and we can’t tell these governments what to do because we don’t understand there cultures or where there coming from we highly doubt that if we were too do something about it that we’d even still be here to see that change happen. i will say this however the iranians are going through some tough crap yes ive read it in the news and online and they deserve better but were not apart of there government to make change in there beliefs and to stop them from the regime or what ever it is that there doing
I was an English teacher in another life. I take Mr Ledeen at his word as to what he meant to say, but the sentence permits Independant’s interpretation just as easily. It would get a “What??!” from this teacher’s red pencil.
Be clear.
Rancher, there is supposed to be a big exposure on the Usurper this Sunday on FOX (2000 hrs ET). We might find out just why the Usurper is in such a hurry with his agenda. Maybe he knows his time in office is VERY limited.
The Huffy-po’s are delusional. They actually thought their guy was going to make the world a perfect place. Woke up and there was no quarter under the pillow and now they are enraged.
Mr.Ledeen: President Obama is doing exactly what is needed to. I am Iranian and I travel there often. The last thing our people need now is direct involement of the American government. this will give the regim the exact tool it needs to crush our people further. besides since when you are so intrested in the plight of Iranian people? if you are so human loving and caring indisual why not write something about the plight people in Louisiana still suffering from Katrina? how about the plight od 300000 people who live in Mississippi without running water? you have no intrest of the Iranian people in mind. your loyalty is to Israel. just move back there and stop using our people for your cynical agenda.
Ruvy#36: what are smoking? first of all the Iranian people our Jewish brothers and sisters are not too fond of the murderous Isralei government. secondly how do you suppose the Isralei”s are going attack? I would highly recomend that you buy a one way ticket to NYC once the Israleis attack> that country after attacking Iran will no longer exist you simpleton. I also recomnded to in the past please go to this site and purchase a few items. you will view the world differently.
http://www.babeland.com
Mr. Ledeen,
Very well, I accept the explanation of your comment and I apologize for mine.
tks and bravo to you indie!