Why it matters:
The press conference was held by Iran after two weeks of January 8-9 terrorist attacks. It serves as a strategic move by Iran to present its official narrative directly to international audiences, counter biased media coverage, and reinforce public diplomacy.
The big picture:
While peaceful protests over inflation and economic challenges were ongoing since December 28, on January 8–9, terrorist armed groups, supported by the U.S. and Israel, turned the protests into terrorist operations in several cities across Iran. These elements targeted public property and killed security personnel and civilians, aiming to fabricate casualties and pave the way for a potential U.S. attack on Iran.
According to Iranian officials, the operation resulted in 3,117 fatalities, of whom 2,427 are considered martyrs. Authorities also reported the arrest of numerous armed assailants.
What he's saying:
Iran’s ambassador Mohammad Boroujerdi: "recorded audio evidence" showing that orders were sent "from outside the country, from intelligence organizations, specifically Mossad and the CIA," instructing individuals to enter crowds while armed and to target security forces. He also stated that the directives had specifed that operatives should "try to shoot police officers; if that is not possible, to shoot civilians; and if that is not possible, to target anyone around them, men and women alike."
The ambassador also stated that the United States cannot present itself as a supporter of the Iranian people while pursuing "expansionist political objectives under the banner of human rights and democracy".
He referred to past events, saying that a government which "during a 12-day war, killed more than 1,500 Iranian people," and “shot down an Iranian passenger airplane, killing more than 300 people in 1988, lacks credibility in claiming to defend human rights.."
Emphasizing Iran’s position on regional security, he said the Iran does not seek conflict and “does not welcome any war,” but stressed that if it is attacked, then "we are fully prepared and possesses the full capability to defend our nation with strength and determination.”
Go deeper:
Nigerian People Defend Iran Amid U.S. Human Rights Allegations
Puerto Rican Professor: CIA Manuals Apply in Iran
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