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| May 23, 2002 This month's archived letters sorted by subject * If the whole world converted to Islam will the fighting stop? Hello, Let me say first of all that I think all men (woman and child) are the same across civilization, race and cultures. They look for the same things food, shelter, procreation. These basic things are all what majority of humanity want. They care not for high idealogies, religion, state etc. But there is a small percentage of the human race that want more. They seek to control the rest of humanity for their gains. They do this through high idealogies, religion, state etc (for more on this read animal farm). Religion is the most powerful tool of all. Because there seems to be no direct gain for the people using it. It seems like they are doing it for your benefit. Unlike corporations or a state which have a direct profit. Of all the religions Islam has perfected this tool called religion. The ability to control and use its populace. Possibly because it is the last major religion to have evolved in the world. Islam seems to have plugged the loopholes that exist in all earlier religions. For example hinduism, buddhism etc are largely unorganised religions and so the relation is between man and god directly. They practice the religion as they see fit with no schooling or intermediary. Christianity is an organised religion where the person is schooled and a strong relationship between the person and god is nourished through the church. His religious needs are taken care of through the church. Islam however makes sure that all of the mans needs are met by the koran. So at all points the muslim person turns to the koran for all clarifications and guidance.This places the interpretor of the koran in a powerful position. No matter what allah really meant or what the prophet actually said it is the interpretor of the koran (mollah) that can pass things on or twist things around to incite and control his followers. I feel that the mollahs have really managed to do a good job. They constantly incite and keep the muslim people in a fever pitch of frenzy. This way they can get their people to do anything for their end. This has been going on for generations now. Today it is the jews, hindus and all nonbelievers that are at the receiving end. I often wonder if the whole world converted to Islam will the fighting stop? I think not. Then they will fight each other (The middle east is predominantly muslim but yet is the most violent place on earth today). Because you see its all about power and has nothing to do with god or even the people. we are just tools in the hands of the mollahs. I can think of only one resolution. There must be a second Islamic prophet who undos all the harm the mollahs have done. But I suppose that avenue has been taken care of too. For mohammed was the last prophet and has said that he is the last one. There by leaving no opportunity for a new avenue. See? I told you. They managed to close all the loopholes. I guess we now have to wait for judgement day! :) Shabana To top * Gloating I hate to gloat, but I will this time! :o) [Tabreek o tasleeyat] I was THRILLED to see the winner on the home page of iranian.com!!!!!!!! I almost fell out of my chair! TABREEK!!!!!!! Best Regards, Dalia Salvador To top * We need more people like Shahram The article by Shahram Hashemi published on May 20, 2002 by The Iranian is quite important and should be discussed in open forum such as iic.org and supported by our community. [Beyond measure] The letter is timely and well stated. We need more people like Shahram's characteristics with great deeds in our community. Iranians in general are not receiving its fair assessment in America mainly due to a biased media with less good will and spirit shown to the public. The negative image as portrayed by the media serve more against us than the true picture about our culture and contribution to the American life. Thank you for spreading more positive news about our community. Javad Fakharzadeh Boston, MA To top * No need to be so biased and paranoid So what? [Tabreek o tasleeyat] It doesn't mean that everyone who voted for Reza Pahlavi is necessarily a monarchist. He's quite simply the most active Iranian abroad and has probably been the most productive due to his TV interviews and his mentioning of the active students back home who even held a candle-light vigil for 9/11 victims, which was disrupted by belligerernt security officers. I don't recall too many people mentioning that in the news. I don't recall too many Iranians going on TV to talk about the readiness and the desire of the Iranian people for Democracy. And if he's really opting for Monarchy, then he sure is promoting the wrong political ideology, for I have not once heard him speaking about how he'd like to reinstate his fathers kingdom and declare himself as the CEO. So, no need to be so biased and paranoid - not to mention bitter - about the accurate results of a poll for the Iranian of the year. Reza Pahlavi has done a wonderful job. Reza To top * What are you complaining about? Regarding the Parsibans [Islamabad's Parsibans], what are you complaining about? They're enriching your economy. Promote education for your people and instead of sending your children to useless madrasas, send them to real educational institutions, and you'll create competition for them. Why do you think you have so many of them in your country to begin with? If your corrupt politicians had not supported the Talibans and their simple conquest of Kabul, then you would probably not be in this mess in the first place. At least you would not have as MANY Afghans as you do now. Your government screwed up and you're paying the price for it. Simple as that. A little less religion and a little more education will get you and the Afghan people very far. Reza To top * Tragic That really is tragic... [Tabreek o tasleeyat] Do you think it would help to offer people some choices? I had a hard time coming up with the skier guy. But now that I see some of the other people (minus Reza) choices I see there are some good choices out there. There can always be room for a write-in candidate... Setareh Sarrafan To top * I have one word for you: LEAVE I am writing in response to your article "Today, I am a Palestinian" and the letter "America stabs everyone in the back." I am an Iranian who is also an American citizen and I am sick and tired of the Iranians who live in the United States, reap the benefits of this country and, yet, criticize the US government and people. I have one word for you: LEAVE. There are millions of people waiting to take your place. If the lady author of Today I'm a Palestinian is so worried about the Palestinians and so appalled by the US, why doesn't she move to Palestine and truly empathize with them and suffer their woes with them. Please renounce your American and Iranian citizenships and become a Palestinian. Also, I don't understand why Iranians are so sympathetic towards Palestinians and yet said nothing about what went on in Kosovo, Sudan, Somalia, etc. If its humanity you're concerned about, then you should be concerned about all the oppressed/victimized people. How about being concerned about the Iranians in Iran who, to say the least, are working two or three jobs just to feed their children in a desperate economy. I believe that both Palestinian and Israeli governments are at fault, leading to the death and suffering of many innocent Palestinians and Israelis. Both sides are terrorizing each other. TT To top * Almost choked on my pie Dear Gentlemen, [Kopol vs. Topol] Thank you so much for the great article. Your idea was not only good, it was so wonderfully described in the article that I almost choked on my Key Lime Pie while I read/ate at the same time. I'm a fan of both of your writings--the fact that you are joining forces like this is brilliant. I wish you both luck. The site is great, and were I not a nearly starving college student, I would gladly donate to the efforts. As it is, I remain a constant fan. Parissa To top * Makes me want to fling dung Wow... lord, where to start? [Tabreek o tasleeyat] First of all, this anti-Reza Pahlavi shit is so disheartening to read. I sit here and I see it too often and it makes me cry: not because I'm offended, but because i'm awestruck at the number of undereducated Iranians. Disgusting. For three thousand years Iran Zamin has been under the rule of a monarch. Kourosh was one of the most innovative and merciful rulers in the history of time. When, some day Iran become free again, a constitutional monarchy with limitations will prevail. Time has proven that it will - history demands it. Britain is a shining example of a constitutional monarchy - a fully functional DEMOCRACY. You don't respect the King or Queen you jackasses, you respect the crown and everything that it symbolizes. You respect the history of your country and the accomplishments of its people. When idiots like Javid write "I'm afraid so" and "Taqseere khodetoone" it makes me want to fling dung in his direction. Disgusting. Perhaps even more disgusting is the fact that there are people on this site who are willing to write in support of Palestine. HELLO? Are you people fucking braindead? Your brothers and sisters are much more dire straits than the Palestinians. You have a cause in Iran to fight for and you're focusing your efforts on the Palestinians? You people are all stupid. Shamelessly stupid and ignorant. And as far as the AXIS OF EVIL remark stands, all you stupid people are also deaf. Deaf, stupid Iranians running around waving their swords by e-mail. Let me clarify, President Bush explicitly stated that "The governing few rule against the will of the masses". This is true. You cant' deny it or argue it because it's a fact. The very fact that this is true makes Bush's comment true. The government - GOVERNMENT - in Iran is compromising an Axis of Evil. The same ignoramuses who aren't in support of a constitutional monarchy or who are throwing support at Palestine are also opposed to this "AXIS OF EVIL" remark. Iran is an axis of evil as long as those people are in charge. Hadi Khorsandi, take note, you're included in the list of stupid people because I saw a joke about this in your promo. Then there's the guy that said he "spits on my Tehran...oon shahr kharabshode bood". Get the fuck out of here, whoever wrote the article about dahatees ruining the city, he was right. He was right because dahatees did ruin Tehran, but it wasn't their fault. It was the government's fault for not providing adequate jobs and adequate city planning. That's why Tehran has gone from the beautiful city it once was to a festering shithole of old cars and smog. I spit on the face of the guy who wrote that letter because he's just an ignorant dahatee who doesn't know what the hell he's talking about either. You can go to hell now, evil man. I used to think there was hope, but now i'm just stunned. Go. Run. Read some goddamn books before you submit horrifying bullshit that makes smart people cry. Sepehr Daneshmandi To top * Moosh bokhoradet I was going to answer to the writings of Ms. Sabety who seems to be the golden author of your website and how non Iranian she looks to me (some one from the Naafe Tehran). And right now I saw your man of the year. It confirmed my take on your site and its visitors. Its going to be brief. All I have to say about Ms. Sabety is that people like me can not like people like her or her representing any part of our culture. She and her Loos and tasteless admirers recently including some foreigners belong to a different planet - she belongs to those who were driven to school (my sympathies as a man about that trauma caused by that driver and equally negligent upper class parents), then went to a school where at age 9 a girl could fall in love with an American boy, then came to America when we were on the streets being shot by her daddy's regime, to be "busy with boys" (all excerpts from her writings or about her), and then the mention of the "Boston toilets" in one of the previous letters etc. (my apologies to her husband as a man). And now her writing one day in support of Arabs even closing herself to the "regime" and finally calling her recent telephone call from a poor woman who got angry with her supporting of Arabs for no reason as "the worst retaliation or...." something like that? How "Loos va Bimazeh va tasteless", are you out of your mind? Is this really that much hatred to get a telephone call? This much Gheshgheregh for that? "Moosh bokhoradet" mam! Is that too much to get a call like that from one of our Kalimi minorities as it sounds like? Have they ever hurt you. My nephew is telling me since coming here how nice they and our Armenians have been to him and how proud they are of their mother land- more helpful than you, and speak louder and better Persian than many bache mosalmoons. I grew up eating Abgoosht with most of these guys who are ruling the country today. Being from the central and south Tehran and being of religious background we grew up together but I don't see that type of attitude in Tehran's Daash Mashdis or Pasdars of the revolutionary guard about Arab and Israel issue as among the Iranians of this website, they don't have problems of this type towards Israel but you and your admirers do? Why? I think because you have assumed the believes of the West, you have become like the predator (while a potential or actual but silent victims). You are unconsciously telling your dominant western host "see I am like you, I hate what you hate so pleeeeaaaaase accept me". Its a shame. Half of my classmates in Khiaboon Cyrus became pasdar and got killed but even they didn't hate Israel as much as you do, do you know who they hated? Arabs! And don't give me that humanitarian lecture that you haven't felt with your unbiased skin. I am talking about real world ethics. Nonsense we hate them and they hate us and this won't change until the day of Star war movie becomes a reality? Still no Persian Jedai will sit next to an Arab one if there will be one, but will live with Jewish neighbor in peace as we did in Naafe Tehran in absolute peace, did our shopping at Baazaare Seyd Esmal every wee together Who tells you like that girl who is Bihejab at work in a lab to put on and run under the cover of Chafieh? In Boston? Don't you hate the combinations here? Disgusting. This must be a conspiracy. I won't tell you and you won't believe me if I tell you what things and from who I have heard with my own ears from this regime's men about Arabs and then the nationalism that our Jewish immigrants have shown over the years. they know everything very well. Buttomline is that you and your admirers with those Loos va Khonak letters of support like "Setareh Joon" and so forth are representing something that I don't know and don't like. Those who died defending this web site's editor's hometown also didn't think and wouldn't like people like you. I forgot to congratulate you for your reader's choice on the man of the year [Tabreek o tasleeyat]; that's the Dome chores I am talking about. And please don't use sensorship on this website by publishing just certain views without others even being aware that I might have become censored, don't built a cyber dictatorship. Sincerely Abol To top * Niemöller's words On why should we support anyone or any people, such as Palestinians, subjected to suppression, injustice, war crimes, oppression, violence, brutality, humiliation, subjugationÖ, the words of Martin Niemöller shall suffice: "When Hitler attacked the Jews. I was not a Jew, thus, I was not concerned. Hitler attacked the leftist and the communists, I did not identify with them and thus I did not react. Hitler attacked the gays, the infirm, the physically impaired, I was a heterosexual in full vigor and physique, and thus I did not protest. Then Hitler attacked the Catholics, I was not a Catholic, and thus I did nothing. Hitler attacked the unions and the industrialists, I was not a member of unions and I paid Hitler's action no heed. Then Hitler attacked me, and there was no one left to be concerned and defend me." Freedom and Justice are indivisible. Others cannot be free if one is not; injustice to one is injustice to all. Kaveh Ahangar To top * $900 for 30 pounds of... fat What a great fundraising idea! [Kopol vs. Topol] Sign me up as a sponsor. I'll donate $30 for every pound you lose. But here's the catch -- you must lose at least 10 pounds! My guess is you want to lose about 30 lbs. So that's a cool $900 waiting for you. Maybe then you'll be a decent tennis player again :-). Shahrokh Mortazavi PS I don't trust you when it comes to food & money. I want [your daughter] Mahdiyeh to be the official judge. EDITOR'S REPLY: You mean I'm not a decent tennis player? I beat YOU didn't I? Okay, once. But still... To top * "10 O'Clock News" trick I looked at both your pictures [Kopol vs. Topol]. I did not see any reason for either one of you to be so concerned about your weight, specially the "JJ." Now, if this is another one of those "10 O'Clock News" tricks to reach readership and receive monetary support, well then it might work. I do not see any reason otherwise for you two guys to bear your bellies to the readers of IRANIAN in the name of diet! JJ, did you get any fee from the makers and marketers of "LUNA" bars? If not, there is where you could have received the real money. M.H. Farzin, Ph. D. To top * Correct title: CIA agent I write respectfully to inform you that in your small description of those who got the votes for Iranian of the year you refer to Mr Ibrahim Yazdi as an opposition figure. I have to inform you that his correct title is in fact CIA agent. [Tabreek o tasleeyat] Yours, Amir London To top * People are extremely busy Since this was not, as you say, a successful poll (unlike the other efforts) I would not spend more time discussing it [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. Most people are extremely busy as you know and we need to think of solutions for the low turn out. Thank you for your continuously educating us Mohamad Navab Los Angeles To top * Weakness of democratic ideas No surprise about Reza Pahlavi's win [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. In my view it reveals several things: 1) the frustration with the masses with the slow pace of reform 2) that Iranian political culture is still largely authoritarian 3) the continuing weakness of democratic ideas among Iranians and a concomitant sense of how positive historical change works 4) money/power and satellite dishes can buy votes Keep up the good work. Nader Hashemi Ph.D. Candidate Department of Political Science University of Toronto To top * Most famous character in Iranians' life My vote for Iranian Of the year: Seyyed Ebrahim Nabavi or whoever writes and talks for (Emam Jomeh Tabriz) in www.Nabavionline.com is Iranian of the year. It's probably Seyyed Ebrahim Nabavi. He is great. He deserves to be the Iranian of the Year. He is the most famous character in Iranians' life. Mandana Asadi Tadayon To top * Is this a joke or what? OK so people didn't participate, no surprizes there! [Tabreek o tasleeyat] But it seems that people are even failing to understand the question: "Select your IRANIAN of the year!" Since when is O.B.Laden an Iranian? Is this a joke or what? He's got 2 votes! Negar R.T To top * Taking sides This is so funny! I'm sure I've seen Siamack in Hafez [Restaurant in London] in the past [Kopol vs. Topol]. If I see him in there again, I'll go over and give him some encouragement. Not that I'm taking sides on this! Leyla Hashemi To top * Really touchy about their Alazahrat First, I wish you the best in your "battle of the bulge" (e.g. ta'arof). [Kopol vs. Topol] I actually know all the 19 people who voted for the Alahazrat from VA. THis equal the number of all the pseudo-hate e-mails I got for my little article [Popular for the wrong reasons] in your web site. These folks are really touchy about their Alazahrat from Maryland. Take care. M. H. Eslami To top * He deserves it His Majesty Reza Pahlavi as Man of the Year on your site!! [Tabreek o tasleeyat] He is doing great things for Iran. I hope you will help him as well. He deserves it and I am doing all I can to help him. You should also. Tim Haskin To top * Did not fool me then, will not fool me now It is really sad and disgraceful to see there are Iranian out in the free world who think a retarded and bored son of a murderer is worth even acknowledging [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. I wish we could travel back in time. I want to see some of these people being taken form their comfy homes in the free world and placed in prison with the Savak members. I want to see them tortured for questioning the crown Cannibal who is the father of this being called Reza. The ignorance of some of my fellow Iranian infuriates me. This kid's mother appears with no jewels and hardly any make up in Iranian newspaper or magazines. If people would take a few minutes and look through some of the Spanish or European society magazines they will see Farah decked up in millions of dollars worth of jewelry (stolen assets of our people) with designer gowns that are worth thousands of dollars. She is all smile while jet setting with these people. This family did not fool me as a college student in Iran and certainly will not fool me now. I hope they all suffer indignity and forever be deprived of seeing Iran for causing so much suffering to so many people. Azam Nemati To top * Incorrect to say Azeris speak Turkish Hello, this letter is in response to "Why do people in Tabriz speak Turkish?", sent by Katja Staschewski. My name is Masoud Naseri, and I recently read your letter you submitted to Iranian.com about your questions regarding Iranian Azerbaijan. Although I cannot answer the first two, I may be of some help for the last one. Iran is a very multiethnic nation. The ten major ethnic groups include Persians, Kurds, Lurs, Gilakis, Mazanderanis, Baluchis, Azeris, Ghashghais, Turkmens, and Arabs. The first six of these mentioned are considered ìtrue Iraniansî, that is, people of Iranic stock, which is a branch of the Indo-European ethno-linguistic group of people, and make up over 60% of the total population. They are considered Caucasian, and closely related to almost all people of European origin (Slavs, Celts, Greeks, Latins, etc.). There is also a considerable Turkic minority in Iran, which include the Azeris (they make up about 25% of the total population). These people are not related to Persians (the bulk of the Iranian population, who have been there since the times of the Persian Empire). Rather, they migrated to the region of Azerbaijan in the 8th century A.D. from Turkistan in Central Asia. Turkistan is now the countries of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Uyghuristan (Xin Jiang province in eastern China). Being of Turkic stock, Azeris are closely related to the Turkish (note, Azeris do not speak Turkish, Turkish is the language of Turkey, though they are closely related it is completely incorrect to say Azeris speak Turkish, Azeri is the language spoken in Azerbaijan), they are also related to Uzbeks, Turkmens, Tatars, etc. They make up the Ural-Altaic ethno-linguistic family, making them very closely related to Mongolians, and in fact they are considered Asian, not Caucasian. The land of Azerbaijan derives its name from the Old Persian word for fire, ìAzarî. It may have been named so because of all the natural pockets of burning oil along the Caspian Sea, or because of the many fire temples when the original inhabitants were (as were all Iranic peoples) of the Zoroastrian faith. It may have also been named after a Persian satrap (general), whose name was derived from the word fire, who was placed in control of the region by Alexander the Great after his conquest of the Persian Empire. Though the original inhabitants of Azerbaijan were or Iranic origin, they are long gone, and when the invading Turkic tribes swept through Iran in the 8th century, many stayed in that region picking up the name for themselves. It is interesting to note, that the country of Azerbaijan was also part of Iran until about the end of the 19th century when it was lost to the Russians. It later became part of the Soviet Union and is now an independent republic. Referred to as ìNorthern Azerbaijanî they have picked up much Russian influence (in their cloths, loan words, music, etc.), while ìSouthern Azerbaijanî, which is a province of Iran, has much more Persian influence. There is, and always has been, a movement for Iranian Azerbaijan to break away from Persian rule and rejoin itís independent brother to north, to make one large country of Azerbaijan. Although this movement has always been quelled by the Persian rulers (to this day as well). One thing though, be careful when you read literature about cities suck as Tabriz and Urumie. Always make note of when the time frame is, to access whether the city was still mostly composed of Iranic or Turkic stock. Most literature from these areas, even after the Turkic migrations, were done in Persian, as Azeri does not have much of a literary history. Well, I hope this helped you out some. Please feel free to email me with any more questions you may have, as Iíd be more than happy to try and answer them for you. Sincerely, Masoud Naseri To top * "Baleghorbangoo" people Hi, I wanted to give some comments to Mr Kadivar (if it is your real name) mail [Mix of understanding and irritation]. First thank you for your thoughts, although I dont share them. I think what many of us Iranians do time after time, changing our political view from monarchist to nationalist or leftist is to idolizing a person and making him/her as in the same place where a deeply religious man would place a prophet. I can see by your mail that you are hurt that there has been caricatures of Reza Pahlavi (by the name the name pahlavi are also stolen by them not only billions of dollars) on this site. Well isnt that one of the things that defines democracy, the right to ridicule and criticize every body. In Europe all the monarchs are subject to much worse kind of treatment. The swedish king got a pie in his face by a 16 year old boy, and after getting it he just commented, it tastes good. The boy got 1 or 2 days in jail. And the thing is people in general in Sweden love their monarch, for being down to earth and very humane(they think he is dum but that is another thing). What would iranian monarchists do if anybody would do through a pie at Reza Pahlavi? Would he survive to see the next day? And another thing about monarchists is that when they get offended by someone criticizes phalavis, is calling him/her namaknashnaas. Why should iranians be thankfull? For all the things they did for us you say? Well what would have happened if Reza shah didnt became king? Would iran stopped changing and evolving? Was Ahmad shah Ghajar much worse than Reza shah? Could you imagine any worse situation than the one iran is in right now if Reza Shah would have not make the coup? I dont want to ridicule Reza Pahlavi, he has his good and bad sides like every body else, and he could be maybe a help for Iranians, but the way he keeps ignoring some facts like the mistakes his father made is making him lose face. And when he surround himself with "baleghorbangoo" people he must be sure that he wont get any major support. For a democratic system we must be able to criticize the ones in power. That keeps the system free from corruption and tyranny. Choghok To top * Letting your pen free Dear Setareh, Just this morning I was thinking of you and wanted to e-mail you that we have not had the pleasure of reading your thoughts lately. So, I was going to ask you please please unleash your pen again. But, joyfully I saw your poem [Full throttle spring], so thank you for letting your pen free. M&M P.S. I wrote a letter to the Web site in response to your last article and troubles that you had had with the "mozahem", and it didn't get published, but I was totally happy to see how many people like me have appreciated your writings, sincerity, and courage and they sent letters. It simply made me happy to see people appreciate a good think when they read it. To top * Superb Dear Mr. Memarian, [Naghsh-e Jahan] Superb job. Congratulations. And thanks for sharing them with us. Wish you more success. H. Hakimi, Norway To top * I ordered the CD Hi Bruce, [Amr Diab] I visit Iranian.com site frequently, and read your article about Amr Diab's CD that was published on May 9th... I ordered the CD right away, and I've been playing it over and over every day... Just wanted to thank you for your research, and please keep me/us updated if you came across other CDs like this one in future... Regards, Gus To top * Stupid remark about Iranians Dear Girl, [Of course Betty Mahmoody was unhappy in Iran] You need a lot of education to come out with such a stupid remark about Iranians. Go back to school & read some ancient history & learn a bit about the Persian civilization. You are too ignorant for writing letters here & there. After you educated yourself enough then if you are logical & fair, you will come to know that, You owe a lot of apologies to all the Iranians. Or you may think that IGNORANCE IS A VIRTUE?! H. Hakimi, Norway To top * Judging Iranian culture by a domestic problem A person wrote a letter to your site bashing Iran [Of course Betty Mahmoody was unhappy in Iran]. She sited Betty Mahmoody, the lady whose life was made into that anti-Iranian movie Not without my daughter. First of all, as an American born individual I am offended by that individuals close minded and vulgar view of Iranians. I bring the following facts to our readers that it was not until 1919 that women were able to vote in the United States. There was even a civil war in the United States to abolish slavery. And that Civil War killed the most Americans. I believe judging Iranian culture by a domestic problem like the one "Betty Mahmoody" had is like me judging America by the Acts of O.J. Simpson. Of course O.J. Simpson was a more violent case. Two murders happened because of that case. Before anyone around calls anyone barbaric I believe that they should first go and visit an Indian Reservation in the United States and see how the American Indians are treated. Ask the Japanese how they felt about two atomic bombs falling on their country in 1945. And ask any black American how it feels to be subjugated to 400 years of slavery. No one should throw that word barbaric around lightly. As the American saying goes, a person who lives in a glass house shouldn't throw stones. Sincerely Yours, Peyman Allen Alagheband New York, New York To top * Have I watched too many X-Files re-runs? i'm not iranian, but i've had a few iranian friends and i had a HUGE crush on an iranian girl when i was growing up, so i can appreciate that there are many different opinions and things to admire in iranians. one thing i have never understood, because american books and news outlets completely avoid the subject, is what the united states government's role was in the original ousting of the shah. i know that there were many different voices silenced by violence during the 1979 revolution, leading to an essentially totalitarian regime. what i don't understand, however, is how the shah could be overthrown in 1979 when, i believe, he had already been ousted by the democraticly elected parliament years before... am i mistaken? did he return? how? would i be correct in saying that the united states did not fully support "truth, justice, and the american way" in iran? did the CIA actually fund and train elements within the iranian military who were "sympathetic" to the shah and arrange for his return before his final overthrow in 79? or have i watched too many x-files re-runs? could you point me toward info on the internet concerning what role the united states played (positive or negative) in the DEMOCRATIC movement in iran? Chris To top * Whose the instigators of terror? Title of my letter is, Israel is right. You can put my email address in the letter. To respond to all these Pro Palestinians posters on here. First, I wonder what you Iranians were thinking, when the Palestinians were supporting Saddam Hussein after he gassed and murdered thousands of Iranians. On the current situation. Whose the instigators of terror? The "cycle" in practice works like this: Palestinian terrorists conduct random, murderous attacks targeting Israeli civilians in public buses, shopping malls, Cafe's, restaurants, disco's, sbarro's pizzeria's, Bar Mitzvah's, shoe stores, weddings and schools. The Palestinians goal is to kill as many Israeli civilians as possible. The Israeli military pursues strikes against military or terrorist targets in response, attempting to disable terrorist networks that Arafat won't stop himself, since he is no different from them. In the one case, Palestinian terrorists set out to murder as many Israeli civilians as possible. Israel responds to these terrorists acts, by targeting Palestinian terrorists who sponsor these murderous acts against Israeli civilians. The Palestinians then hide these terrorists in civilian areas, wanting Israel to fire back, so civilians are killed, so this looks good on TV. And, as President Bush said on Friday, any doubt that remained that the Palestinian Authority is facilitating terror at the highest levels was removed by he recent interception of the boatload of weapons and explosives bound for the Gaza Strip. The attempt to draw a moral equivalence between the Palestinians' deliberate attempts to kill innocents and inspire terror and Israel's military responses to these attacks is not far different from describing the U.S. airstrikes on Afghanistan as "perpetuating the cycle of violence between al Qaeda and the United States." Terrorism is the DELIBERATE targeting of innocent civilians and noncombatants for political or religious purposes. Pretty simple! The Palestinians are terrorists because they deliberately target innocent Israeli men, women and children going about their daily lifes The Israelis do not deliberately target Palestinian civilians/non combatants. Israelis Defence Forces only target Palestinian terrorists who are engaged in the execution and commissioning of terrorist acts. The IDF goes to amazing lengths to reduce Palestinian "collateral damage" but this is often hampered by the terrorists usage of civilian human shields. The poverty of such comparisons was made painfully clear last week by a statement from Ahmed Abdel Rahman, secretary of the Palestinian cabinet, who blamed a recent Israeli raid on a Palestinian bomb factory in Nablus for the current spate of attacks. If one side is making the bombs ( destined to be strapped to suicidal terrorists to massacre Israeli civilians) and the other side conducting raids to prevent their manufacture, there is little room to question who is in the right. Is it any wonder, why Palestinians find moral equivalence, between Palestinian terrorists who blow up Sbarros pizzeria's and discos filled with teenagers and Israeli commandos, who preemptively kill terrorist ringleaders, before they send their suicide bombers into Israel on a mission to kill Jewish civilians. Dan Wilson To top * Open your eyes pal Hey Dan, [What Fisk doesn't tell you] It doesn't bloody matter how many Arabs killed how many other Arabs or Moslems. You don't trade atrocities. Just because PLO fought against the Falange or Druids, doesn't make the Isreali atrocities any better or less criminal. If you just listen to Robert Fisk instead of being blinded by your right wing pro-Isreali bigotry, you'll know that unlike the likes of you, he is not an Arab or Paletinian or PLO apologist. He is simply airing out his arguments against the state of Isreal because your likes have had the ear of the Western mass media for too long. Open your eyes pal, you can't fuck up the truth for ever. Asghar Massombagi To top * Don't make me get out my Photoshop again! Thanks for sharing the results for the Iranian of the Year [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. I'm very happy for the monarchists and their icon, the King of Kings -- or is it the Kinglet of Kinglets!? [... who, by the way, knows how to pick the best turnips at the local supermarket, according to Time magazine]. They got their wish... I hope now they will leave us alone with this whole referendum business. Moe PS: Don't make me get out my Photoshop again! To top * Just referring to the cause Dear H. Hakimi, [PERSIA, in my opinion] Nice argument and glad to see it. But honestly, I can't understand those honest fellow countrymen who, write or wrong, feel the country owes Reza shah so they miss to mention where the whole source of this big mistake lies. Just referring to the cause of the problem will help tremendously to settle the issue. I believe at some point this needs to be done formally and through Iranian foreign ministry, those he formalized this betray (if you don't mind). BTW, the reason I am being cautious is just not to offend you in case you are a "pro-Reza shah", not that I agree with him, just not to be rude to you or any fellow country man. Discussing this issue without mentioning the source of the trouble has been so painful to me and so misleading in this whole discussion over the years that I can not stand it anymore. Yours truly, Hassan To top * Persians should never rule out non-Persians First of all, let me be articulate in a forthright manner that my disapproval of the name Persian by no means signifies that I don't respect anything Persian in our great Iranian Culture. As I strongly stressed before, I highly revere the grandeur of the Persian Language along with the immense cultural contributions this splendourous culture has had in the development of the Iranian Culture. What I wanted to point out (as was self-evident in my article called "The rest") was the adversity of ruling out the other half of the population of Iran and the possible impacts of such an uncaring attitude. I would also like to note that I am one of the staunchest proponents of the name Persian Gulf since I believe it is the true name of that water body. However, that is because it is adjacent to the Ostaan Faars in Iran and that is where the name Persian Gulf stems from(as far as I know and have been told). Accordingly, generalising this name to every section of Iran, in my opinion, is inadvertent. I would first like to reply to Mr. Kadivar [Stretching your argument]. As far as I'm concerned the domination you have mentioned in your reply is by no means a reason for persisting in with this ideaology. As you might discern, the term Iranian applies to various Indo-European tribes who emmigrated into the central plateau around 3000 years ago and Persians, as you clearly know better than me, are one of those tribes settling in what is known today as Fars in Southern Iran. Throughout the history, Persians, in order to sustain the integrity of Iran after their domination, have been dependent on the help of various tribes, a true example of solidarity amongst Persians and non-Persians. I'm not a historian; I'm a 20-year-old engineering student. However, I am well aware of some of the basic historical facts concerning the formation of a nation like Iran and this denotes that without non-Persians, Persians wouldn't have been able to taste prosperity through various stages of history. Hence, my point (no matter how tightly it sounds to have been stretched!!) is that Persians should never rule out the fact that non-Persians have also had an equal share of contribution to this great land. Furthermore, I never denied the amount of respect Persians showed to other minorities (however, please note that this respect is only notably high IN COMPARISON to the plights of other minorities in the neighbouring countries like Turkey, Iraq, and Persian Gulf states). On the other hand, throughout the 20th century, there have been intermittent attempts of the ruling shahs to suppress other cultures co-existing in this land. This also gives me a feeling that this respect has been gravitated more towards the extent of just tolerance rather than equal and mutual respect. Furthermore, I would like to respond to Mr. Hakimi's comments [PERSIA, in my opinion] whereby he stated his choice for the resurrection of the name Persia. Dear Mr. Hakimi, I do agree with you that we shouln't make the world forget about the glory of the Persian Empire founded previously. You are also right about the fact that the world is gradually becoming oblivious to the great achievements of the Persian Empire, as you mentioned. On the other hand, did you also realise that you are mixing apples and oranges? First of all Mr. Hakimi, have you ever conceived the reason why we Iranians, our history, and our cultural values have been in a battered state for the past few decades? Do you think the only way for foreigners to get to know Persia is to resurrect this name again? Don't you think our dearest Iranians, both abroad and inside Iran along with the tyrannical regimes we have been afflicted with, have been instrumental at this trend whereby our history is almost fading into oblivion due to our uncaring stance? Have you ever mused on the number of our antiquities smuggled to the British Museum in England? Is changing our name back to Persia going to bring back all the dignity we Iranians have lost world-wide? If you have paid attention, due the current regime's ill-advised stance of not safeguarding our historical values, the world is totally unaware of the fact that Iranian Plateau is one of the prime centres of civilisation. Evidently, the ignorance of the world, be it the TIME magazine you mentioned or some other publication, stems from the political atmosphere of the world reflected in the media. I am sure you must have heard of the attempts of some of the clerics in Iran to totally demolish Persepolis during the initial stages of the regime. Can you imagine how preposterous it would have been had they managed to pull that glamorous structure down? Accordingly, it is up to our people and state to promote every component of our age-old culture. In this respect, I don't attribute the ignorant (or deliberate) attempt of those renowned publications with respect to the Persian Empire to the fact that we have changed our name to Iran, but to the fact that we have been ineffectual due to the cataclysmic havocs we have encountered within this century. By changing our name to Persia, we would explicitly disregard the existing Non-Persian (but Iranian or not) cultures within our boundaries. And I think this tendency serves best to the interests of the British, not the other way around since the history shows how proficient the British have been at creating so many Arab states in the region (through this pervasive policy of divide and conquer). Despite their paramount influences in the direction of Iran, the British have failed to secede Iran. However, in an atmosphere where disrespect to other cultures culminates, there will be no reason for the British Conspiracies not to reach fruition. I think what you mentined serves to the British more. Vahid Isabeigi To top * Drive to use Persian Dear Nima, I agree with your idea about ethnic backgrounds and that no one can be really sure about his or her ethnicity after all the cross-ethnic breeding, etc. ["Persian" versus "Iranian"] But please note that considering yourself a "Persian" (as an Iranian abroad) is not a specific ethnic claim but rather a reference to a tradition, heritage and the culture associated with it. When you say I'm Persian, it doesn't really equate to a statement claiming the purity of your blood as a Fars. And as a unifying factor in a group of people who are otherwise so diverse and disperse, I don't see a problem with claiming that we're Persians. Personally, I can claim, probably with 100% certainty, that I am a Persian (and a Fars) because my father came to Tehran from a village near Naeen (between Yazd and Isfahan) where there had been ZERO reproduction involving other ethnicities. So, my ancestors were all Persian peasants on the edge of the desert (Kaveer!) But again, it doesn't matter if I can be sure of my Persian purity (or Kurdish, etc.) but it matters that a Persian identity can unify the people of Iranian origin in an international community without annoying interference from the national politics of Iran which taints the word "Iranian". This is the reason behind a drive to use Persian (instead of Farsi) to refer to our language in English context. Because people of the world don't really know what "Farsi" is and do not associate the fame and rich background associated with all things Persian, we're encouraging the use of Persian to refer to our language when speaking in English. So, I would suggest that we all adopt Persian as our heritage, whether or not we can be 100% sure. Best regards, Ben Bagheri To top * Faride Raiat My mother is very interested to find her best friend from the time back in high school. Her name is khanome Faride Raiat. Last residence was in England. My mother's name is Mariam B. - Shahabi. Please contact us with this e-mail address: amanda_waleh@hotmail.com To top * Vital concern for what is to become of the Middle East It has been four years since my last letter. And the world has definately changed. My concern for Iran, at the moment, is that the patterns I'm seeing are very similar to those prior to the Ayatolla Khomeini regime. Knowing of my US President, and his clear interest in taking up a hobby as a bulk glass maker, I'm in vital concern for what is to become of the Middle East, let alone the world. Thus, if there is ever going to be an all-out effort to make clear that Iranian Americans are Americans first, now would be a good time. Public opinion is swayed most by those that speak first, not last. Peace, somehow in this madness. David I. Brager To top * Israel will bring the wrath of God I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Fisk. [Why does John Malkovich want to kill me?] U.S. and Briton have always been (and will be) supporter of Israel and any comments about Israel and its policy will bring the wrath of God on them. I remember a few years back when Senator Bob Dole mentioned that we (US) give too much $ as foreign aids to other countries, especially Israel while our own farmers are loosing their lands and livelihood, etc., etc. He came under such vicious attack that no mention of that statement was ever brought up nor the administration acted on. As a matter of fact, US gives more aid to Israel than any other nation on earth. WHY? We are probing Enron, Kmart and Anderson, while our treasury is being vandalized (legally) and our hard earned tax $ is given away by our elected officials who in turn keep their jobs and enjoy financial rewards (serving the people my foot). David Danaee To top * Ignorance or intentional On the May 2, 2002 issue of the national post newpaper published in Toronto, Canada, on page A7, I saw a heading on the top of the page to the effect: "Canadian battle ships leave for the Arabian Gulf"... I am not sure if this is out of ignorance or intentional, but we need to inform the newspaper and request a public announcement, correction, and opology. I have also noticed in a toy store, the Globe Ball that had replaced Persian Gulf with the Arabian Gulf. I have heard of these tactics where countries create such false web sites, toys, etc. and buy the passing of time, a generation of misinformed is created. Sincerely, BD To top * Criticism of Israel not anti-semitic While I enjoyed reading Ali T. Kazemi's article about anti-semitism [Black vs Red ants], I couldn't help but notice a few points: First, the author mistakes anti-semitism with criticism of Israel. There is absolutely nothing anti-Semitic about criticism of Israel, and certainly there are many acts and attitudes which the Israeli government policies does share with the Nazis: the call for "breathing room" for settlements to "naturally expand" so that the "Chosen People" can fulfill their destiny, not to mention practices such as mass punishment, use of ghettos to control/subjugate the non-Chosen, the history of ethnic cleansing, etc. Of course, there is no doubt that some anti-Semites are critics of Israel, but some anti-Semites are in fact strong supporters of Israel (ie: the fundamentalist Christians in the US such as Falwell) but not all critics of Israel are anti-Semites. Israel does indeed have much to answer for. The attempt to equate criticism of Israel with anti-semitism is nothing more than a cheap shot, and an attempt to silence criticism of Israel. The second issue is this: Technically speaking, Arabs are Semites too. But there is an insistence that the term be limited just to anti-Jewish racism, and also insist that anti-semitism is a "bigger" problem than any other form of racism. In fact, some of the most ardent supporters of Israel resort to cheap sophistry and insist that the widely-acknowledged apartheid against Arabs which exists in Israel is not racism per se because "Arabs aren't a race", so they even refuse to acknowledge their own overt and obvious bigotry against non-Jews, while at the same time cry out loudly about anti-semitism! Indeed, we all hear a lot about how standard anti-Semitic nonsense such as the "Protocols of the Elders of Zion" have become prevalent in the Mideast. But I have to wonder whether all of those publications are really as much of a problem as it is claimed. People in the Mideast are against Israel for legitimate reasons that cannot simply be dismissed as anti-semitism. Also, I doubt that all of the "Protocols" are are even .01% as effective compared to the standard anti-Moslem/Mideasterner stereotyped movies pumped out by Hollywood which depict all (non-Jewish) Middle Easterners as dark-skinned oily terrorists hell-bent on destroying the world. So, it seems to me that if you truly consider the full extent of bigotry in the world as it really exists instead of just concentrating on bigotry against Jews, anti-Moslem/Mideaster race-hatred is far more of a problem than anti-semitism; it is far more tolerated and in fact propogated far more widely than the "Protocols of Zion" ever were. In fact anti-semitism, whether that term includes the Arabs or not, is one of the many forms of bigotry and racism which exists throughout the world. It is no more and no less "special". Bigotry in any form is bad and should be condemned, whether the targets are Jews or non-Jews. While anti-semitism is indeed an problem, it should not be manipulated to silence critics of Israel either. John Mohammadi To top * Readers are indifferent Your dedication to The Iranian is admirable and I sincerely hope that some day it would payoff for you. However the turnout of this most recent polling effort should tell you a lot about how limp your audience are. [Tabreek o tasleeyat] Please don't take me wrong, this does not reflect the quality of your publication which happens to be one of the best in the market. It is your readers that are indifferent. They are the oneswho don't give a hoot whether you make it financially or join the San Francisco homeless crowd. You have a core readership which are comprised of a handful of writers who have found a free venue to get published and a larger group of internet addicts like me who visit your site daily. No matter what you do you can't get these people to do any more than what they have been doing until now. As the economy declines internet users will also decline. I hope you can sustain yourself until such time when things return to "normal". Sincerely, Moftaki Senior Doom and Gloom Waiting for Armageddon II To top * If you are genuinely sincere I had not read your piece [Popular for the wrong reasons]. Now that I have read it, I fully endorse Darius Kadivar's response to the same. I would, nonetheless, like to ask you "Doktor Islami" a few questions: After all that criticizing, moaning and groaning, you say "They (Iranians) need to hear how well it will be if we all get together and strive for liberty". My question is, what is Prince Reza Pahlavi's message in all of his speeches and campaign? And how do you propose that we all strive for that liberty? You say " Folks in Iran do not need preachers". But "thanks" to visionaries like yourself, Iranians are being ruled by a bunch of "professional preachers" - and, furthermore, what gives you the right to preach them? You say "Iranians need an Iran where liberty is not measured by your wealth, your degree, your family pedigree, your religion and/or political affiliation". True, that would be an ideal Iran for all of us. But, if you are genuinely sincere about what you say (preach), then why don't you start with yourself? Why are you then bashing others for their political affiliation? And why can't you resist not putting the letters MD after your name, advertising your own degree ? I only wish that likes of you (ostensibly well-meaning Iranians!) had a bit more substance and integrity and less BAAAAAD!! Peace. Maral Beheshti To top * I will be watching you! Dear Siamack and Jahanshah, [Kopol vs. Topol] It is rather refreshing to see that the age-old "battle of bulge", which is generally perceived as being a "female thing", is finally catching up with the "macho gender"! I hope neither of you is going to "chicken out" in the middle of this battle arena. Let me tell you guys, it may not be an easy battle to win - especially for Siamack, who may have to endure certain sacrifices, such as giving up POLO, for example!! But, remember, you are MEN - and you can do anything you want and achieve everything!! I sincerely wish you both every success in this "battle of wills" - and, I will be watching you! Regards, Maral Beheshti To top * People are too lazy Don't get upset but I don't think that was proper way to get votes from people in this day of tech age, where web based click and vote interfaces are all over the net. [Tabreek o tasleeyat] These days people are too lazy to write emails. I think you should take the top ten of these people and consider them as candidates and then create a web page (or just a small window) where people can select one person from the list and vote, and put the window somewhere very visible in your web site. Then you will see what kind of response you get. Kambiz To top * I'm only 17, but... Well I'm only 17 year old Persian living in the UK and I still know how to distinguish between a man of pure love for his country like Mohammad Reza Shah who left the place he loved to save the bloodshed which would have taken place if he had stayed and a man like Ayatollah Khomeini who used the concept of religion to fool a nation on the way up into a revolution which set it back a few hundred years, a man who's face screams pure evil and a man who ruined such a culture rich nation, took away all the pride it had under the Shah and made it what it is today, a nation only recognized internationally for terrorism were once it was recognized for being the land of milk and honey. Like many Persians I am a Muslim, but I truly believe if Ayatollah Khomeini has been given a place in heaven, then heaven is not someone the Shah is or I would be proud to be! So I conclude that Mohammad Reza Shah is my person of the Century. Millad UK To top * Get out and vote Iranian of the year was by far one of the funniest I have read on the website [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. Great to interject true humor while giving certain facts. The apathy that we exhibit towards many questions. In a small scale this is the story of normal elections. Everyone says my vote won't count and here is the result: "Reza gets elected" and who do we blame? Omrica! Omrica! No it was us who did not take the initiative to vote! Don't blame Omrica, get out and vote. Next time I will nominate my first grade teacher, the voters are so few that her name will get printed as a nominee. Thanks for the lesson! F.A. Ashtiani To top * All he is trying to do is free a nation Just curious - why are you so against Reza Pahlavi? All he is trying to do is free a nation that is being ruled by viscious totalitarians and risking his life and that of his childrens' in the process. [Tabreek o tasleeyat] Celia To top * No wonder you have lost many decent people What a bunch of crap and junk you guys print in Iranian.com [Neighbor's goose]. No wonder you have lost many decent people reading your e-magazine. Especially from a person who is well-known in the Iranian community for advocating Islamic terrorism. What a shame for Iranian.com and sad for Iranian community. Sincerely, M. Tavakoli New York, New York To top * This young man is intelligent I think the problem, or non problem, is your emailing system. I "MUST" be in the IRANIAN's mailing list, and I got no voting email, none! [Tabreek o tasleeyat] I definitely agree with the result, though. It makes sense. This young man is intelligent, wants the best for his country, has the late Shah's best senses, and has the connections needed to start a new government in IRAN. He does not necessarily have to become a shah, though. He could be a leader to get rid of these mullahs; it would be for the IRANIANS to select a new government, and a head to go with it. He could be that head for a while, or longer if people so decide. I wish you had advertised the matter of voting so that people would have responded better, instead of your email not reaching many people, which is what I think must have happened. You get more in email response to many of your articles than the 80 email votes, for Pete sake! M.H. Farzin, Ph. D. To top * Anything posistive about Pahlavi It is truly sad that you have never been apologetic about anti Jewish Iranians taking over your magazine, yet you are always apologetic about publishing anything remotely posistive about Reza Pahlavi. [Tabreek o tasleeyat] Thank You Ali Sarshar To top * Says it all I really really enjoyed your comments on the latest Iranian of the year [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. I believe his "tabrik and tasliyat" says it all. However some other interesting conclusions could be made. 1- The simple fact that this years winner had collected 19 votes! is interesting. So all that blab bah bah in supporting monarchy comes down to 19 votes!!!! No offense, but that is not enough to fill a government cabinet! So how is Reza Pahlavi really going to run the country???? What happened to all those activists??? Ironically number 19 reminds me of the number of hijackers who caused the September 11 events. Is 19 the new golden number? Is it a symbol of minorities aiming at exposing majorities to unwanted changes??? 2-Another interesting conclusion is that the Iranian community has turned to a "meidan-e bi-savar". Not many proactive figures around. Not that many in the news either. No huge achievements. No World cup qualification, no political serious change, nothing exciting going on. Looks like a depressed era. 3- Finally, I guess we all missed a great chance to boost our resumes!!! Just think about it. We all know at least 20 people, don't we? We could have asked them to vote for us as the Iranian of the year. If willing we could have sent them a check for say, 5 bucks! Having done that we could have added an exciting bullet to our resumes. "Iranian of the year 2002". That would have been awesome. Wouldn't it? Arsalan Shirzad To top * Foreign concept Moteasefam ke mardom alaghe neshoon nadand [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. I think the reason may be that concepts like man of the year and person of this and that are mostly foreign to the Iranian culture. I personally didn't really think anyone that I knew was worthy (except you, may be - really)! In order to prevent being short-circuited like this again, next time, you may want to set a minimum number of votes for a selection to qualify. For example, 1,000 votes seems reasonable as a minimum. This way, if you have a repeat of this year's situation, you simply publish the results in their count order (as you have this year) but if no one has reached the required minimum votes, then none will be announced as Iranian of the year! Just my two cents! Keep up the good work. Bahman :) To top * DEATH TO TERRORISM AFTER SEEING THE ACTION OF THE GOV AND THE PEOPLE OF IRAN REGARDING TERRORISM I WANT TO CLAIM THAT I AM ASHAMED OF BEING AN IRANIAN.NOT JUST THE GOV BUT THE PEOPLE OF IRAN BACK THE MURDURAS ACTS OF PALISTINIAN AND LEBANEESE TERRORSTS AGAINST THE GOV. AND PEOPLES OF ISRAEL AND THE U.S. THIS IS A SHAME THE PEOPLE OF IRAN ARE NOT WHAT THEY USED TO BE.SHAME ON YOU. DEATH TO TERRORISM AND ISLAMIC EXPANTIONISM. LONG LIVE ISRAEL AND THE U.S.THANK GOD THAT I LIVE IN THE BEST COUNTYR IN THE WORLD THE U.S. I AM PROUD THAT I EXCHANGED MY IRANIAN CITIZENSHIP WITH AN AMERICAN ONE. A Gheytanch To top * Nursing care I am looking for a nursing care facility in SF-Bay Area that caters to Iranians. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Arzhang Boloorian To top * Unfortunate year for politics It is unfortunate that there was such a low turn out for vote this year, but then it was an unfortunate year for Iranian politics [Tabreek o tasleeyat]. As a whole no one seems to have made a real difference in Iran in this past year. While this does not condone the lack of votes it certainly points out a strong reason. Let's hope that this year is a better year for Iran and the Iranians. Sincerely, Ali Ashrafzadeh PS: I am a guilty one who did not vote, not because I did not care but becuase I thought no one deserved my vote. To top * Badly in need of books Please post this on your website. This team at Sharif University in Tehran is struggling to bring Iranian computing onine but they are badly in need of books. Specifically these titles. C Bobroff To top * I wonder why I'm no pro-monarchy at all. Actually I hate monarchy. But I wonder why you say "Tabreek o tasleeyat" for Reza Pahlavi's Iranian.com man of the year title. I don't remember you expressing your mixed feeling toward selection of Khatami, who did nothing for Iran's fledgling ecomony and never will. You portray yourself as an intellectual and yet you're unable to distinguish between those who made Iranians suffer and others who have not harmed anybody. S I To top * Simply fascinating I read "FAASELEH". This particular work of yours is simply fascinating... from one time zone and space to another and then back again!!!!!!! Mehr-Ali To top * Traditional Iranian clothes I'm hoping I can get some help from the readers of Iranian.com. I'm looking for pictures of traditional Iranian clothes (women's). I've searched the net and haven't found much. If anyone has any suggestions, I'd be grateful. Raha N To top * Do not compare US, Iran Readers have a responsibility to respond to false claims or poorly reasoned and illogical posters. One such article was submitted under the title "Similarities and Differences," and penned by Mojgan [Editor: Please provide the URL so people know what you are referring to. Where is it?]. The author claims that the Iranian system shares many similarities with the American system and conclude, "that difference between these two systems is only in the appearance not in the core." Unfortunately, this is a testimony on how little she knows about either Iran or the American system. On the issue of ëfreedom of press,' Mojgan believes that there is no way for one to express anti-Israeli views. And thus, we are just like the Iranian system. My dear, Iran has the infamy of being the greatest prison for journalist. This is the view expressed by writer without borders. And while many American newspapers may be accused of harboring pro-Israeli sentiments, there are many other outlets that express pro-Palestinian views. You must blame your lack of research and curiosity for your ignorance. To start, you may want to pay a visit to your local newsstand and pick up an issue of the Nation magazine. You could also tune your radio to Radio Free Speech. There are just a few examples of outlets that have the freedom to express a different view. Could someone in Iran start a radio station and question the legitimacy or feasibility of theocracy? I ask you to read the story "Journalist Gets Suspended Sentence for Insulting Islam." This will give you a glimpse on what the reality of free speech is in Iran. And do not compare your freedom in the US to that in Iran. There is no Evin prison in the USA. Have you heard of Ahmad Batani. The man whose picture during student protests was printed on the Economist. Just for that, he has been sentenced to a ten year prison sentence. Have you heard of the tortures our people have been treated to at the regimes "prison universities." And no one is executed in USA for being a Baha'I or Jewish. If your neighbor converted to Islam from Christianity, he will not be executed. But in Iran, it is a crime punished by execution for those who convert to another religion from Islam. Please, read some news about Iran. The respected author says: "How many Muslim or Iranian representatives are there in the Government... Middle Eastern people are blocked from getting to high and sensitive positions." Please. How many people who are not Shiite Muslims have any position of significance in Iran? USA is a democracy and people are elected. If you do a very basic research you will find people of Middle Eastern extraction in the government. Governor of New Hampshire, Mrs. Sheehan is an Arab-American. Former Secretary of Health and Human Resource, Donna Shalala was also an Arab-American. President Bush recently appointed an Algerian-American as an official in the Department of HHR. Ralph Nader's family emigrated from Lebanon. And there are countless Iranian CEO's in the United States. Lastly, on the issue of human rights violation, I suggest Mojgan to travel to Iran and print the same letter in Iran. If she escapes unharmed, I humbly present her my 1999 Volks Wagon Jetta. Michael Jalili To top * Refuse to be mistreated, politely Brothers and sisters: The time has come to stand shoulder to shoulder against mistreatment. Do not put up with any. Politly refuse to be mistreated. Object to body searches in the airports. If you are the citizen of United states, Search and seizure must take place by the judges orders. Do not put up with any B.S in the airports. All it takes is the first person to politely object to be searched and then take it to their attorney if the airline refuses them service. If body search is not part of your contract (writen in the ticket you purchased) refuse to do it. Iranian women should be the ones who should start the talking because the Iranian male could be looked as aggressive. If they ask to search you, ask them "what is wrong with your X ray machine?" , "Ask them if they have a warrant to search you?" Give them your opnion against what they are doing politely. FarzodS To top * Meymun TORO BE KHODA UN AKSE UN MEYMUNO VARDAR... har vaght mebinamesh unja neshaste ba un khandeye ahmaganash halam beham mekhore. EYN IN ke shah neshaste be ma negah mekoneh. ["Tabreek o tasleeyat"] These stupid monarchists don't realize everytime they give birth to a son we have to spend day and night praying he is not predisposed to some psychological problems, what happens if we have a king and he gives birth to a fucked up kid... Toro be haqe har chi vasat azizeh un akso avaz kon...he looks like he is laughing at everyone who critizes him... especialy you all is missing is him flicking you off... i think i made a semi point. Elie To top * Yes, indeed I suppose when you say Tabreek, ["Tabreek o tasleeyat"] you are congratulating those Iranians who envision an Iran: "wherein its prosperous economy gives every Iranian an equal chance for hope and opportunity; An Iran where its women fully participate in the political, economic and cultural life of their homeland; An Iran where its press is free from intimidation, harassment, imprisonment and torture; This vision includes a progressive, civil and stable society in which separation of Religion and State is recognized. Finallly, the Iran of tomorrow ought to have a foreign policy based on principles of harmony and mutual respect." ( Reza Pahlavi's goals.) And when you say Taslyat, you are expressing your condolences to those who still believe in a failed society where the preamble of its Constitution states: "On the basis of the concept of Velayat-e Amr va Imamat-e Mostamir (rule by the leader and the perpetual leadership), the Constitution will lay the ground for the realization of leadership by the qualified clergy, recognized by the people as their leader so that the clergy may safeguard against any deviations by state institutions from their true Islamic functions (The affairs of the people have been entrusted to the faithful Ulama, or religious authorities, who know that which is allowed and that which is forbidden)." (The constitution of the Islamic Republic) Yes, indeed, Tabreek o Taslyat. Mihandoust To top * Bogus Mr. Javid, you tell us there were 19 votes for Reza Pahlavi and 12 votes for Khatami after two weeks of you sending a survey by email. As usual, I find your claim "bogus". ["Tabreek o tasleeyat"] Reason: Today, somebody in the forum section of Iranmania asked people's opinons re Reza Pahlavi and Khatami. Within less than 5 hours, 28 people responded. Of that 28, at least 24 are in favor of Reza Pahlavi, 2 in favor of Khatami, 2 basically indifferent. Dont believe me, check it out for yourself. Aghaye Javid, I have one word for your kind. Harfe Hessab yek kalameh. Look at the fate of Saeed Emami, he was an idealistic American educated young man who went to Iran to be a Hezbollahi. He served the Mollahs and the revolution from the bottom of his heart, sincerely and with all his power like a true believer for over 20 years. He distorted the truth for them, he killed intellectuals with his own hands, he tortured, he stage managed elaborate character assasination schemes in mock trials, on TV and on the internet. Where did he end up? When it served their purpose, when they didnt need him anymore, in a matter of weeks, the Mollahs fired him from his job, tortured him and killed him They even tortured and raped his wife who was completely apolitical. These are all undisputed facts that even you cannot refute. So, Aghaye Javid, good luck to you and however you like to live the rest of your life. Kerman Zero 1 To top * Always awake One point you seem to be missing here is the fact that monarchists have always been the ones awake and with real views whether you like to admit it or not!!!! ["Tabreek o tasleeyat"] And by the way you still haven't said what is your criteria for publishing letters as you still haven't published Amir's letter. Is it that anything that makes sense might not be worth your while I wonder! Regards, Lida Editor's reply: Here's the editorial policy. You may find some more answers here: FAQ. Be patient... To top |
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