Why it matters:
The meeting gathered academic scholars to discuss Resistance diplomacy. It served as a testament to the University of Tehran and its faculty’s commitment to honoring the martyrs of service and diplomacy.
The big picture:
The Iranian faculty hosted the gathering under the motto "Dignity, Wisdom, and Good," bringing together leading experts and figures in international affairs and political studies. Through a series of courses and workshops, the faculty has worked to expand diplomatic efforts, with Resistance Diplomacy marking the latest phase in this ongoing initiative.
What he's saying:
The Scientific Secretary of the meeting, Javad Shaarbaf, noted that such conferences encourage fighters and instill hope in oppressed nations, especially the Palestinians, stating that as long as this hope remains alive, resistance will endure.
"Preserving hope and sharing historical experiences of ending occupation strengthen Palestinian resolve."
Zoom in:
Six countries in the world have adopted resistance diplomacy.
- Cuba: The oldest practitioner of resistance diplomacy, having paid a significant price for its stance.
- North Korea: Its missile and nuclear capabilities have served as the backbone of its resistance diplomacy.
- Palestine: Has long employed this strategy, successfully gaining the support of many UN members.
- Venezuela: Engaged in longstanding conflicts with the U.S. and relied on oil as a key tool in its diplomatic efforts.
- Russia: Used energy as leverage in response to Western sanctions after the Ukraine war, preventing economic collapse.
- Iran: Resistance diplomacy dates back to the Islamic Revolution and its quest for independence.
What they're saying:
As a key guest, the Head of Iranology Foundation, Ali Akbar Salehi, said: "Resistance is the most fundamental right and the essence of life itself. It is not merely a rigid reaction against oppression; rather, it is an art—an expression of dignity, wisdom, and strategic interests. Resistance is a dynamic and rational movement."
Representative of Iran's Leader in Iranian universities, Hojjatoeslam Mostafa Rostami: "Humanity is facing a test as a large-scale injustice unfolds in Gaza. Resistance arises in response to such oppression, and scholars have a duty to act. Martyr Raisi and Martyr Amir-Abdollahian used all diplomatic tools to advance the cause of Resistance and give a voice to the voiceless."
Former Minister of Culture Mohammad Mehdi Esmaeili: "Resistance is not just a theory, but a comprehensive approach and a blueprint for the liberation of nations. The cost of resistance is lower than compromise. … The late President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian were both models of resistance."
Venezuelan Ambassador in Beirute Jose Gregorio Biomorgi Muzzatiz: "Iran and Venezuela stand against imperialism. … The Supreme Leader of Iran has repeatedly highlighted the decline of the United States, and the recent tariff war with China is seen as part of this broader shift."
Secretary of Iran's Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution Hojjatoleslam Abdolhossein Khosropanah: "The theory of resistance diplomacy, as spoken and practiced by the martyrs of resistance, aligns with Islamic foundations and embodies humanitarian and human-centric values."
Chancellor of Tehran University Mohammad Hossein Omid: "Iran’s resistance diplomacy originated with the Islamic Revolution and its drive for independence. Despite increasing Western pressures over the past two decades, Iran has relied on its human resources, natural wealth, and military advancements to uphold and expand this strategy."
Chairman of the Islamic Human Rights Commission in London Masoud Shajareh: "Resistance is not limited to the military sphere; it is a global concept. The example of South Africa shows that, even without broad international support, resistance can achieve its goals."
Dean of the Faculty of World Studies Saeed Reza Ameli: "Resistance diplomacy is the antithesis of domination diplomacy; currently, 85% of the world’s population faces discrimination. Resistance diplomacy relies on rationality, prudence, and upholding rights. It accepts adaptation but not submission."
Go deeper:
Iranian lecturer: The World Hate Israel As a Result of Resistance
seyed mohammad kazemi
