Adventures in Islamic Cyberspace
The somewhat rhetorical question posed by an online muslim:
It has been a long time since I discussed this issue, but I always like my views challenged! I still hold onto the view that the Caliphate is a matter that is know by necessity in Islam sort of like Hajj and Salah. I also hold that there is consensus among the companions and the scholars of Islam on this.
Do you think this is the case or do you think that the evidence in support is vague at best?
The answer:
There are two things which separated: Caliphate and Imamate.
Imamate is Divine Right. Caliphate is merely the legislative body of any Islamic state and can be demonstrated in a Monarchy or a Democracy or even a Marxist regime. It only represents a legislative body or group of leaders or even a dictator under which one is either forced or agrees to be led due to matters of citizenship within a state. The "Caliphate" was taken immediately after the death of the prophet by those who did not possess Divine Right and hence, it turned sour on each "monarch" one after the other in succession during the "physical" and "non occulted" tenure of the twelve Imams/Ahl Bayt.
Imamate is a whole other ball park and for the Shia (the actual surviving members of the Ahl Bayt like Sayyed Nasrallah or Khameini or any other black hatted Shia figure), they assume possession of it and it cannot be assumed by any other. It is the case that all Shia know that even if others do not believe it is in their possession, it still does and if the actual Caliphate (which ideally would embody both things, legislative and spiritual guidance) could or should exist in the future they will remain claiming it until the Mahdi arrives and settles the situation. In that case (as it is reflected in the Iranian constitution) all laws, democracies, dictatorships would immediately dissolve/disappear and each and every muslim would have to know who their Imam was so that they could be counted the way they hoped to be previously. If a person is following an Imam who was in error then it is a problem for both the follower and the leader. The onus is not merely on the believer who may have suffered oppression and social pressure to conform to leaders not of their choosing but also and to a much more major extent, the actual Imam who insisted others ought to follow them (sometimes even in fear of their life if they didn't follow a "caliph" which is not an "Imam"). Although there are Shia Imams who are living, they are fallible to various degrees. A Marja is an living "Imam" who is as close as it comes to being free from error and worthy of being "emulated". When one refers to an actual Imam of the sort which is a claimant to Imamate, we are talking about the twelve Imams whom I am sure you all are familiar with and because the actual Khalifate is disintegrated into two things (caliphate and Imamate), a claimant will remain a claimant until such a time as justice is reestablished (the justice which was either purposely or inadvertently usurped at the event horizon of the prophet's death).
The origin of this problem is with the Ottoman, Abbasid, and Omayyed empires in which several if not all the Caliphs forced the citizens to "pledge allegiance" or suffer the death penalty or other forms of marginalization if they didn't "tow" the political line of any given Caliph. This continues to this day in many Arab states even if it is in a more subtle form. Saudi Arabia being the best model for discussion about that sort of thing.
In Iran and in all of Shia Islamic practice, a person is never coerced to "pledge allegiance" to anyone. A person selects a marja to follow if they feel they need one (they aren't even compelled to have one if they feel they can answer their own legal questions to their own satisfaction). An Iranian for instance may "pledge allegiance" to the spiritual guidance of a non Iranian scholar like Sistani in Iraq or heck, if I was a man and a marja, an American Scholar (although this is a seriously unlikely event). The point is, the allegiance is to a school of thought and legal jurisprudence which may be liberal to conservative rather than an allegiance to a person's "country" or nationality. Literally, it is an allegiance to the best form of truth per your own judgement.
Your question however i.e. it is an 'article' of faith to "know" your local caliphate and caliph...well not necessarily. What you need to know is who your Imam is and in the case of a Shia, the Imams are all dead (except for the occulted Mahdi) and the Marja's are simply legal scholars "for the times" who answer questions based both on their knowledge of "what the actual twelve Imams said" and what they can gather from a very long history of having studied exhaustively the texts surrounding the precedents in Islam and Islamic history.
The Shia view of the Mahdi is divided into two camps basically. Those who believe the Mahdi is present in all our affairs and is witness to events and those who believe the Mahdi is "somewhere else" and not in contact in any way, shape or form. Those who possess other knowledges (the highest ranking Shia scholars) may or may not make people privy to that information. That is an unknown and I'm sure, a much debated part of the argument. A consensus on that issue however is not required. The only consensus that any muslim be they Sunni or Shia need in that regard is to know that there is a Mahdi who is returning to establish justice.
Your other question, whether or not there is a consensus...well sure there is. There is a Shia consensus that is cohesive and does not vary within the Shia group and there are multiple consensi in the Sunni groups which number anywhere from four to six at this time. Those consensi are not in agreement and therefore you will find the answer to those questions depending on what it is you actually hope to know or want to know or insist on knowing or as is usually the case with those who don't like to know things, what you already BELIEVE or have been taught by your family, society and "sect" members. In other words, if you already suffer a bias it is usually the case that you will continue on with whatever it is you have now.
And (another poster, redacted), I think you are partially right and partially wrong. There is a unified theory of Sunni Islam and that is the denial of any of this and hence they are "non Shia" and cohesiveness thus far has been generated from that particular stance rather than an actual stance on the Who's Who of Islamic history.
(Yet another poster, a non muslim, redacted to protect the innocent who asked whether the Khalifate was established during the time of the revelation or after the revelation of the Quran), the Khalifa was established in the Quran because the line of prophethood ended with Mohamed and therefore, previous prophets who were Hanifas (Abraham, SA) were both Imams and Khalifas as well as prophets in their own right. It appears to me that a new class of things was instituted by Allah because Allah never leaves his religion untended but of course, the Khalifas are not prophets and of course, Allah would not be sending any more "prophets" which are clearly defined as having a text, a pedigree, access to future events (prophecy) and a clear relationship to Allah which is more or less, direct. In other words, a Khalifa cannot exist to change anything that happened previously but only exists to support what has already been revealed by the last prophet. It can be said that the Twelve Imams did have access to hidden knowledges but not as a result of a direct hotline to Allah via the angel Gibril. The cited Hanifa (Abraham, SA) was both as he was a messenger (had an actual law with its associated abrogations of past laws and texts) AND he was an Imam (scholar, teacher, locuter and in possession of certain types of hidden information) for his generation. Both Imams and Messengers must have genetic linkages to the entire line of prophethood. It is literally a "pedigree" and as such there are weak pedigrees and strong ones. The strongest pedigree is that of the Ahl Bayt. To understand the importance of the "household" of a prophet and the associated "priesthoods" you can compare the Ahl Bayt of Isa (SA, Jesus Christ) which was exactly ONE person IF ANY: Miriam (pbuh). His priesthood was composed of the twelve apostles but I have little doubt his companions were several more. The issue of his household and the household of the prophets was literally taken away from the Hebrew priesthood and their prophets which were remaining. In the Quran there are only three that I know of at that time and that would be Zakariya (the father of Yehye i.e. St. John the Baptist, pbuh, who was subsequently murdered) and Yehye himself (pbuh) who was also murdered by the Hebrews (rabbis, et.al.) and Miriam's (the Virgin Mary that is) father Imran, pbuh (unknown destiny but if anyone knows about this they could enlighten me about it). It is logical then to read the Bible stories in which the authors ascribe a "father" to Isa as being Yusef (pbuh) as completely a fabrication because Isa (SA) was created like Adam (SA) from "no sperm" and hence, unless he fathered any children (not mentioned in any text anywhere) his Ahl Bayt was concluded right there and then and the Hebrews were incensed to be excluded. In most Bibles they authored a pedigree in which Isa, SA is a descendent of Dawood and he isn't one unless you consider the maternal line. And in my opinion that is why Jews do exactly this in terms of establishing "citizenship" in Israel i.e. based on their matrilineal descent from the Hebrews. It's all they were left with in terms of being included until such a time as the Quran was revealed and they were openly advited to reestablish their covenant with Allah but many of them refused. Many of them didn't too. They became muslims you know. We had to come from somewhere!
I'll tell you what is interesting...this same sort of "Imamate" actually was established in the time of Musa and Harun (pbut). If you refer to an Old Testament, you will discover something very interesting about the "priesthood" of Aaron (Harun). It is dealt with in great detail including the fact that the editors of the Old Testament in later times accused Harun of forcing the Israelites to worship the Golden Calf whereas the Quran clarifies his position in that another person suggested the foul idolatry and Harun feared splitting the Israelites into two "camps" or if you will, "sects" and "went along with it" until the reappearance of Musa (from the mount) but was against the action in his heart much like Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) "went along" with this usurped Caliphate physically but not in his heart where he remained a vocal advocate of the travesty of justice until the day he was assassinated by one of his own men who started doubting his advocacy of the truth due to the need to once again "acquiesce" to the power of an oppressor (Muaw'wiya). It is literally a repeat of the same old story between the Sunnis and the Shia and hence confirms one reported hadith in which a questioner asked the prophet if the muslims would suffer all the same catastrophes as the Israelites did and he answered "yes".
Furthermore, you should question those here who claim they are actually Sunni to define what they mean when they use the interchangable but split words Caliphate and Imamate. Hopefully they can provide clear answers for you.
Secondly, when it comes to Imamship and Marjas...the notion of being an Imam is based on the fact that there is a consensus between all Shia Imams regarding Imamate and hence, all Shia sholars "should" be basing all modern decisions on modern laws using their knowledge of the original infallible twelve Imams with their true pedigrees (which are also unanimously agreed upon). So, to make a long explanation even longer, an Imam is a stand in for the time being (in its modern usage) and there ought be NO claim to infallibility by a marja (and they don't claim such things). Their claim is only "as close as you can get" to things which have disappeared. As well, the Marjas that are followed are followed by huge segments of the Shia population for the most part and only vary in the sense that some of them are more liberal (Fadhallah) and some are more conservative (Sistani and Khameini). A follower is not allowed to change marjas until the marja is dead and even then, if they remain in that fellowship then they must not ask further questions of their legal jurisprudence issues. They must be entirely satisfied because a dead Marja is no longer able to address modern principles of justice as they arise. It is understood that Marja's are legally and spiritually culpable for mistakes in their "reading" and "interpretions" as it applies to the law of practice. It is a serious position in Islam and not one that just any old fella will do. All Shia know this and abide by it if they are knowledgable and have been taught the proper hierarchy of belief and the necessary leadership that it entails in times post prophethood in which the prophet (Mohamed, SA) cannot be asked a single thing.
Furthermore, to comment on (redacted post of a Sunni-Sufi fellow) posting of a well meaning article called "Let's all be friends" well...I think that sort of thing is backed by good intentions but it is the same old bandaid. It doesn't cure anything but the symptoms and does not address the cause which in reality is leadership. And clearly, the wound is such a wound that it hemmorrhages now and then and until modern times so a bandaid just isn't going to be good enough in my opinion. Actual knowledge is needed by all muslims regarding leadership issues and post haste.
I do believe however that it is possible to love a Shia even if you aren't one and make that love the type that is honest and friendly. To listen and to learn. I listen and learn from Sunnis all the time....no one has a monopoly on historical information but the case is, leadership in Islam is a Divine thing and as a Divine thing it is given by the Divine Leader Allah. It cannot be changed or substituted for something else and it is clear to me if not to others just yet that the Shia leaders are flexing their muscle.
Ahmadinijad (and the Shia Imams which support his leadership in various ways because I have no idea whether or not Ahmadinijad is even a scholar let alone a Sayyed like Nasrallah or Sistani and hence he is an average Shia guy who knows alot and has his ducks in a row when it comes to the Who's Who of Islamic history) is the first muslim leader to address the United Nations general assembly. No one else has ever bothered to do that...I suppose fearing all sorts of things. It is exactly that steadfastness that wins wars without using guns and counters threats without being threatening but being inviting. It is directly related to the troops under Ali ibn Abi Taleb (pbuh) when they were faced with dying of thirst after being prevented from drinking at the Euphrates river on their way to battle Mu'awiya. Those troops were advised to go to the river and drink (it was their human right to quench their thirst prior to the ensuing battles which were scheduled in those days and followed a type of policy and procedure manual). They were told that if Mu'awiyah's forces prevented them from taking their human rights of drinking that they should SLAY them. It is also directly related to the Sura known as "The Necessities" which is a statement about human rights. It is exactly that right that Iran is addresssing now at the UN and that is the human right to clean nuclear energy, progress and scientific enquiry and access to the river of knowledge (Kawther). It is also true that Ali ibn Abi Taleb always 'invited' his oppressors and enemies like Mu'awiya back into the fold of Islam. It wasn't until they repeatedly refused that he went to war with them and only at the urging of the oppressed muslims. It is always under duress that true muslims fight wars for such things. Afterall, if a Shia leader knows they have the Divine Right on their side, there is no war to be fought for something they already know is in their possession. Fighting for a Caliphate however...well that is the question. Some might even say that is what is going on in Iraq..that it is more about politics than spiritual issues. I think if you read what Ahmadinijad said however, you will recognize that the Shia leaders believe that the times are changing and in a very big way. It is the time in which the waiting is coming to a close and justice (and hence, the Mahdi's return) is approaching. I personally feel that is very Good News and the kind of News that all people be they muslim or not, need right now. It is hopeful and it is optimistic and shouldn't be regarded as a means of achieving superiority over anyone.
People are always trying to find fault with things. Non muslims try to find fault with muslims and muslims try to find fault with each other. What is needed is actual analysis of the real issues and some honesty plus some serious leadership and steadfastness on the part of those with certainty as opposed to those with only "faith" in Islam.
"The right of freedom of speech consists in speaking the truth."
29.9.07
28.9.07
The Last Letter
They thought I was a tire burning.
They thought I was a Marine barracks.
Z is compatible
with the dawn as it bleeds
over the pale and last star:
zoraster, zero, zen and zion.
Those diamonds are in vaults
where the eldest prisoners tortured
are rehabilitated and ready,
privy to the static
age old gnosis and not yet defeated.
Aftermath to etc., aftermath to was,
aftermath shall be - the vague carcass
of temptation a fancy term
for get thee behind me.
Mighty apocrypha tear down these walls.
Where are your villages, your birds?How many brothers walk?Fruit on the branch is willing and/or wicked.A door for entry, one for knocking.Cattle at the butcher, eyes full of angel dust.Carts of melon and spring.Collars creased to the napes of necks.Twisting ropes called spine.Nuclear disk melts the sea, a cold blanket covering entire nations.Wind and too many crops.Disasters happen once, myths twice.The Ages of Ignorance.Waves toss the work of towns into trees.Night vision and green sleepers.A general, at least one.The seventy-two pure ones.The weather is always bomb cloudy now.A simulation at Kufa and a ponderance: Hey mister, did the delightfully dead stone their women?
Looking back at that.
Memories fade, they fade.Survival is for the meek. Z is for lightning.Birds laugh in the morning, dogs all night long.
The thunder said, remember me?
They thought I was a tire burning.
They thought I was a Marine barracks.
Z is compatible
with the dawn as it bleeds
over the pale and last star:
zoraster, zero, zen and zion.
Those diamonds are in vaults
where the eldest prisoners tortured
are rehabilitated and ready,
privy to the static
age old gnosis and not yet defeated.
Aftermath to etc., aftermath to was,
aftermath shall be - the vague carcass
of temptation a fancy term
for get thee behind me.
Mighty apocrypha tear down these walls.
Where are your villages, your birds?How many brothers walk?Fruit on the branch is willing and/or wicked.A door for entry, one for knocking.Cattle at the butcher, eyes full of angel dust.Carts of melon and spring.Collars creased to the napes of necks.Twisting ropes called spine.Nuclear disk melts the sea, a cold blanket covering entire nations.Wind and too many crops.Disasters happen once, myths twice.The Ages of Ignorance.Waves toss the work of towns into trees.Night vision and green sleepers.A general, at least one.The seventy-two pure ones.The weather is always bomb cloudy now.A simulation at Kufa and a ponderance: Hey mister, did the delightfully dead stone their women?
Looking back at that.
Memories fade, they fade.Survival is for the meek. Z is for lightning.Birds laugh in the morning, dogs all night long.
The thunder said, remember me?
27.9.07
You Are Either With
Us or Against Us
President Ahmadinijad of Iran addresses the United Nations General Assembly:
SPEAKER: IRANIAN PRESIDENT MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): In the name of God, the compassionate and the merciful, oh, God, hasten the arrival of Imam al-Mahdi and grant him good health and victory and make us his followers and those who attest to his rightfulness.
Mr. President, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased and grateful to the almighty to have the opportunity once again to attend this important universal forum.
In the present tumultuous world and with the predominance of loud outcries, threats and tensions, and at a time when the big powers are unable to solve present problems, when mistrust in regional and international arenas is on the rise, when the psychological security of societies is being targeted by an onslaught of political and propaganda designs, and disappointment prevails over efficacy of policies and actions of the international organizations in the establishment of a durable peace and security, and the protection of human rights is being weakened, I plan to touch upon and explain the roots of and the ways out of these predicaments and some of the principal challenges facing our world.
I will also speak to you about the need for remedying the present situation, prospects for a brighter and more hopeful future, and about the appearance of the sublime and beauty, compassion and generosity, justice and blossoming of all the God-given human talents and the prominence of faith in God and realization of the promise of God.
I will then submit to your judgment the nuclear issue of Iran as a reality and testing ground for the measurement of honesty, efficacy, steadfastness and accomplishment.
In the closing part of my statement, I will offer my proposals.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Dear friends and colleagues, as you are all aware, mankind is currently facing important, numerous and diverse challenges and I will refer to some of them.
One, organized attempts to destroy the institution of family and to weaken the status of women. Family is the most sacred and valuable human institution that serves as the center of the purest mutual love and affection amongst mothers, fathers and children, and as a safe environment for the nurturing of human generations and a fertile ground for the blossoming of talents and compassion.
This institution has always been respected by all peoples, religions and cultures. Today, we are witnessing an organized invasion by the enemies of humanity and plunderers to destroy this noble institution that is targeted by promoting lewdness, violence and by breaking the boundaries of chastity and decency.
The precious existence of women, as the manifestation of divine beauty and as the peak of kindness, affection and purity has been the target of heavy exploitation in recent decades by the holders of power and the owners of media and wealth.
In some societies, this beloved human has been reduced to a mere instrument of publicity and all the boundaries and protective shields of chastity, purity and beauty have been trampled. This is a colossal betrayal of human society, of succeeding generations and an irreparable blow to the pillar of social coherence, the family.
Two, widespread violations of human rights, terrorism and occupation.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Unfortunately, human rights are being extensively violated by certain powers, especially by those who pretend to be their exclusive advocates.
Setting up secret prisons, abducting persons, trials and secret punishments, without any regard to due process, extensive tappings of telephone conversations, intercepting private mail, and frequent summons to police and security centers have become commonplace and prevalent.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): They use various pretexts to occupy sovereign states and cause insecurity and division, and then use the prevailing situation as an excuse to continue their occupation.
For more than 60 years, Palestine, as compensation for the loss that they incurred during the war in Europe, has been under occupation of the illegal Zionist regime.
The Palestinian people have been displaced or are under heavy military pressure, economic siege, or are incarcerated under abhorrent conditions. The occupiers are protected and praised, while the innocent Palestinians are subjected to political, military, and propaganda onslaught.
The people of Palestine are deprived of water, electricity, and medicine for the sin of asking for freedom. And the government that was freely elected by the people is targeted.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Terrorists are being organized to attack the lives and property of the people with the blessings of the politicians and military officials of the big powers. The brutal Zionists carry out targeted assassinations of Palestinians in their homes and cities, and terrorists are decorated with medals of peace and receive support from the big powers.
On the other hand, they gather a number of Jews from different parts of the world through false propaganda and with the promise of providing them with welfare, jobs and food, and settle them in the occupied territories, exposing them to the harshest restrictions, psychological pressures and constant threats.
They prevent these people from returning to their homelands and by coercion and propaganda induce them to malevolence toward the indigenous Palestinian people.
Iraq was occupied under the pretext of overthrowing a dictator and the existence of weapons of mass destruction. The Iraqi dictator, who had been supported by the same occupiers, was disposed of, and no weapons of mass destruction were discovered. But the occupation continues under different excuses. No day passes without people being killed, wounded or displaced. And the occupiers not only refuse to be accountable and ashamed of their adventure, but speak in a report of a new market for their armaments as a result of their military adventure.
They even oppose the constitution the national assembly and the government established by the vote of the people while they do not even have the courage to declare their defeat and exit Iraq.
Unfortunately, we are witnessing the biter truth that some powers do not value any nation or human beings and the only things that matter to them are themselves, their political parties and their groups.
In their view, human rights are tantamount to profits for their companies and their friends. The rights and dignity of the American people are also being sacrificed for the selfish desires of those holding power.
Three, aggressions against indigenous cultures and national values.
Culture is the manifestation of identity and the key to the survival of nations and the foundation for their interaction with others. In an organized movement, indigenous cultures that are messengers of monotheism, love and fraternity are being subjected to broad and destructive aggressions. National customs and values are humiliated, and the self-esteem and character of nations are ridiculed and defamed.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): The purpose is to promote blind emulations, consumerism, skepticism toward God and human values, and plundering other people's wealth by big powers.
Fourth: Poverty, illiteracy, health care issues, and the gap between the poor and rich. While a major part of the natural environment in Asia, Africa, and Latin American is being plundered by the political and economic domination of certain powers, the situation of poverty and depravation is very alarming.
Let me draw your attention to some data which was issued by the United Nations. Every day, close to 800 million people go to bed hungry, and about 980 million suffered from absolute poverty with less than $1 a day in purchasing power.
People of 31 countries, equivalent to 9 percent of the world's population, have an average life expectancy of 46 years, which is 32 years less than the average of developed countries.
The gap between the rich and the poor in some parts of the world has increased by 40 times, and many countries, the majority of the people are deprived of access to education and schooling.
In developing countries, the maternal mortality rate during pregnancy is 450 per 100,000. This ratio is seven in the richer nations and the ratio of mortality of new births is 59 for developing countries and six for the richer nations. One-third of the deaths in the world, or 50,000 people daily, result from poverty. I believe this data clearly demonstrates the tragic situation dominating economic interactions in the world.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Five: Ignoring noble values and the promotion of deception and lies. Some powers sacrifice all human values, including honesty, purity, and trust for the advancement of their goals.
They propagate skepticism and deception in their relations between states and peoples. They lie openly, level baseless charges against others, act contrary to legal norms and damage the climate of trust and friendship.
They openly abandon morality and noble values in their relations with others and substitute selfishness, supremacy, amnesty and imposition for justice, respect for others, love, affection and honesty. They sacrifice all the good things and the sublime in life for their own greed.
Six: Violations of rules of international law and disrespect of commitments. Some who were themselves the drafters of international law openly and easily violate it and apply discriminatory policies and double standards to others. They drafted disarmament regulations, but every day test and stock pile new generations of lethal weapons.
They frame the Charter of the United Nations, but show disrespect to the right of self-determination and independence of sovereign nations. They conveniently abrogate their (inaudible) and do not yield to laws concerning protection of the environment. Most of the violations of international obligations are committed by a few global powers.
Seven: Escalation of threats and the arms race.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Some powers, whenever their logic fails, simply use the language of threat. The huge arms race casts a shadow of threats over the globe. The nations of Europe were the victims of two world wars and a number of other devastating conflicts and were subjected to the consequences of the Cold War for many decades.
Today, they're living under the shadow of the threat and their interests, security and lands are endangered under the shadow of the arms race imposed by certain big powers. A bullying power allows itself the right to set up a missile system, makes the life of the people of the continent bitter and lays the ground for an arms race.
Some rulers, who superficially appear to be powerful, believe the tools they have at hand can be used at any time and for any purpose, and consequently, threaten others and cast a shadow of insecurity over nations and regions.
International organizations and mechanisms clearly lack the capacity to overcome problems and challenges to put in fair -- place fair and just relations of peace, fraternity and security. There is hardly any government or nation that places much hope in these mechanisms to secure its rights or defend its independence, territorial integrity and national interests.
Dear friends and colleagues, there are many more challenges than the ones I have enumerated and I know that one would have introduced more if one had wanted to touch upon them. But I chose to confine myself to the ones I have stated. Now the important and decisive question concerns the roots and causes of these challenges.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): A scientific and careful analysis shows that the root of the present situation lies in two fundamental factors.
Without doubt, the first factor lies in the relations arising from the consequences of the Second World War. The victors of the war drew the road map for global domination and formulated their policies not on the basis of justice, but for ensuring the interests of the victors over the vanquished nations.
Therefore, mechanisms arising from this approach and related policies have not been capable of finding just solutions for global solutions since 60 years ago.
Some big powers still behave like the victors of the world war and regard other states and nations, even those that had nothing to do with the war, as the vanquished and humiliate other nations and demand extortion through condescending positions similar to that of the master-servant relationship of the Medieval ages.
They believe that they should have more rights than others and also are not accountable to any international organizations.
Mr. President, among all the ineffective bodies, unfortunately the U.N. Security Council ranks first. They have created circumstances in which some powers with exclusive and special right to veto in the Security Council act as prosecutor, judge and executioner, regardless of being a defendant or respondent.
It is natural for countries have been subjected to those powers' infringements of their rights have no hope in getting what they deserve from the council.
Unfortunately, humanity has witnessed in all long wars, like the Korean and Vietnam wars, the war of the Zionists against the Palestinians and against Lebanon, the war of Saddam against the people of Iran, and the ethnic wards of Europe and Africa, one of the members of the Security Council was one of the belligerents who supported one party against the other, usually the aggressor for the conflict itself.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Let's look at Iraq. They first occupied the country and then received authorization from the Security Council, the same council in which the same occupiers have the right to veto.
Who should the people of Iraq complain about? And where should they take their complaints with hopes of securing their rights?
We saw in Lebanon that some powers for a long 33 days prevented the Security Council from taking any action against the Zionist regime with the hope of giving them time to achieve victory.
However, when they became disappointed in seeing their hopes unfulfilled, they decided to cease the hostility by adopting a resolution. But the duty of the Security Council is to prevent the expansion of conflicts, to put in place cease-fires, and to promote peace and safety.
To whom and what organization should the people of Lebanon complain?
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the presence of some monopolistic powers has prevented the Security Council from performing its main duty which is the maintenance of international peace and security based on justice.
The credibility of the council has been tarnished and its efficacy in defending the rights of the U.N. member states has been undermined. Many nations have lost their confidence in the council.
Some other mechanisms, such as the monetary and banking mechanisms, are in the same undesirable situation and have been turned into tools for the imposition of the wishes of some powers on other nations.
It is evident that these mechanisms are not capable of responding to current needs and solving challenges and establishing fair and sustainable relations.
Dear colleagues, again, there is no doubt that the second and more important factor is some big powers' disregard of morals, divine values, the teachings of the prophets and the instructions by the almighty God, as well as the rule of the (inaudible).
How can the incompetents, who cannot even manage and control themselves, rule humanity and arrange its affairs?
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Unfortunately, they have put themselves in the position of God. They were in servitude to their own whims and the desire to have everything for themselves.
For them, human dignity and the lives, properties, and territories of others are no longer respected. Humanity has had a deep wound on its tired body, caused by impious powers, for centuries.
Today, the problems that people around the world face are mainly rooted in the disregard of human values and ethics, and also in the rule of the selfish and incompetent.
Friends, ladies, and gentlemen, the only sustainable way to the betterment of mankind is the return to the teachings of the divine prophets, monotheism, respect for the dignity of humans, and the flow of love and affection in all relationships, ties, and regulations, and to reform the present structures on this basis.
To fulfill this objective, I invite everyone -- everybody to form a front of fraternity, amity, and sustainable peace, based on monotheism and justice, under the name of "Coalition for Peace," (ph) to prevent incursions and arrogance and to promote the culture of affection and justice.
I hereby announce that, with the help of all independent, justice-seeking and peace-loving nations, the Islamic Republic of Iran will be heading down this path.
Monotheism, justice, and compassion for humans should dominate all the pillars of the U.N. And this organization should be a forum for justice, and every member should enjoy equal spiritual and legal support.
The general assembly, as the representative of the international community, should be considered the most important pillar of the U.N., in order to, free from any pressure and threats by the powers, take required measures for the reforming of the U.N. structures, and especially change the present status of the Security Council and defined new structures, based on justice and democracy with the purpose of becoming responsive to the present requirements and to be able to settle existing challenges, heading to the establishment of an enduring stability and security.
Mr. President, Excellencies, the nuclear issue of Iran is a clear example of how such mechanisms perform and the prevailing thoughts behind them.
You are all aware that Iran is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency and has always observed its rules and regulation, and has had the most extensive cooperation with this agency in all areas.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): All our nuclear activities have been completely peaceful and transparent. According to the statute of the IAEA, any member has a number of rights and obligations. In fact, all members have to stay on a peaceful path and, under the supervision of the agency, assist other members. And they are entitled to be supported by the agency and have access to the fuel cycle with the help of the agency and its members.
Thus far, Iran has fulfilled all of its obligations but has been deprived of other members' technical assistance and, even at times, of the agency's support.
For about five years, some of the aforementioned powers have, by exerting heavy pressure on the IAEA, attempted to prevent the Iranian nation from exercising its rights. They have derailed Iran's nuclear issue from its legal tracks and have politicized the atmosphere to impose their wishes through taking advantage of all their potentials.
The government of Iran spared no effort to build confidence. But they were not satisfied with anything short of the complete halt of all activities, even those related to research and university fields. They were only after depriving the Iranian people of their inalienable rights, even to the extent that those centers not involved in the fuel cycle or not in need of supervision by the agency were closed.
After three years of negotiations and attempts to build confidence, the Iranian nation came to the firm belief that the main concern of these powers is not the possible deviation of Iran's nuclear activities, but is to prevent its scientific progress under this pretext.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): And if this trend continues, there will be no possibility for Iran to enjoy its rights, not even in the next 20 years.
Therefore, Iran decided to pursue the issue through its appropriate, legal path, one that runs through the IAEA, and to disregard unlawful and political impositions by the arrogant powers.
In the last two years, abusing the Security Council, the arrogant powers have repeatedly accused Iran and even made military threats and imposed illegal sanctions against it.
However, by the grace of faith in God and national unity, Iran has moved forward step by step, and now our country is recognized as one with the capacity for industrial-scale fuel cycle production for peaceful purposes.
Unfortunately, the Security Council, in dealing with this obvious legal issue, was influenced by some bullying powers and failed to uphold justice and protect the rights of the Iranian people.
Fortunately, the IAEA has recently tried to regain its legal role as supporter of the rights of its members while supervising nuclear activities. We see this as a correct approach adopted by the agency.
Previously, they illegally insisted on politicizing the Iranian nation's nuclear case, but today, because of the resistance of the Iranian nation, the issue is back to the agency.
And I officially announce that in our opinion the nuclear issue of Iran is now closed and has turned into an ordinary agency matter.
Today, many important questions have been raised about the nuclear activities of certain powers within the IAEA which should be dealt with properly.
Of course, Iran has always been and will be prepared to have constructive talks with all parties. I would like to thank all the nations and countries that during this difficult period defended the legal rights of my nation and motherland. And I also want to appreciate the members of the Non-Aligned Movement, our friends in the Security Council and the IAEA's Board of Governors, the committed and law-abiding experts of the agency, and its director general, for their standing by the law.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): I would also like to announce that, unlike the monopolistic powers, the Iranian nation is ready to offer to other members its experiences in the form of educational programs and based on its obligations under the agency's statue and under its supervision.
Now I would like to address those who have shown hostility toward the Iranian nation for about five years, offended and accused my people who have contributed to the history and civilization of the world. And I advise them to learn from history and their recent actions.
They badly mistreated the great Iranian nation, but they should be careful not to inflict the same on other members of international organizations and not to sacrifice the dignity of international organizations for the sake of their unlawful wishes.
Today, the nations of the world are wide awake and resistant. If you reform yourself, the world, the whole world will be reformed. Nations are inherently good and can coexist peacefully. Those powers should endeavor to serve their own people, others do not need them.
Is it not high time for these powers to return from the path of arrogance and obedience to Satan to the path of faith in God? Would they not like to be cleansed of the impurities, submit to the will of God and believe in him?
Faith in God means believing in honesty, purity, justice and compassion for others. They can be certain that they will benefit from purity, honesty, justice, and loving and respecting the human dignity.
They can also be certain that such values are more and more considered appropriate, valuable and beautiful by the nations of the world.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): This is the invitation of all the divine prophets, from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus Christ, and Mohammed, peace be upon up him. If they accept this invitation, they will be saved. And if they don't, the same calamities that befell the people of distant past will befall them, as well.
According to the Holy Koran, one who does not answer the divine call should not think that he has weakened God on earth. He has no companion but God and he is clearly engulfed by darkness. They have nothing of their own and cannot escape from the dominion of the rule of God and his will.
In this important gathering, I have to remind them of the following words of the almighty which has been mentioned in the Holy Koran. Do they not look at the powers and governments which came before them? If the people of the past had actually possessed something, they would have kept it and would not have let you possess it now.
God destroyed them because of their sins and nobody could protect them against the will of god. These powers have to know that the thoughts and methods based on oppression and injustice are doomed to failure. Do they not see the signs of vigilance and resistance based on monotheism, philanthropy and the justice-seeking spirit of the nations of the world? Do they not notice that we are nearing the sunset of the time of empires? I hope that this invitation will have a practical answer.
Excellencies, peoples and governments are not obliged to obey the injustice of certain powers. These powers, because of the reasons already mentioned, have lost the competence to lead the world. I officially declare that the age of relations arising from the second World War, as well as the era of materialistic thoughts based on arrogance and domination, is well over now.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Humanity has passed a perilous precipice, and the age of monotheism, purity, affinity, respecting others, justice and true peace-loving has commenced.
It is a divine promise that the truth will be victorious and the Earth will be inherited by the righteous. You who are free, believers and the people of the world, put your trust in God.
You who crave high values, wherever you are, try to prepare the grounds for the fulfillment of this great divine promise by serving the people and seeking justice.
The era of darkness will end. Prisoners will return home. The occupied lands will be freed. Palestine and Iraq will be liberated from the domination of the occupiers. And the people of America and Europe will be free of the pressures exerted by the Zionists.
The tenderhearted and humanity-loving governments will replace the aggressive and domineering ones. Human dignity will be regained.
The pleasing aroma of justice will permeate the world, and people will live together in a brotherly and affectionate manner.
Striving in this way to surrender rule to the righteous and perfect human, the promised one, is indeed the final cure for the wounds of humanity, the solution of all problems and the establishment of love, beauty, justice and a dignified life all over the world.
This belief and endeavor is the key to unity and the constructive interaction among nations, countries, the people of the world and all the true justice seekers.
Without any doubt, the promised one who is the ultimate savior, along with Jesus Christ and other holy saviors, will come. In the company of all believers, justice seekers and benefactors, he will establish a bright future and fill the world with justice and duty.
This is the promise of God, therefore it will be fulfilled.
Come, let's play a part in the fulfillment of all this glory and duty. I wish for a bright future for all human beings and the dawn of the liberation of and freedom for all humans, and the rule of love and affection all around the world, as well as the elimination of oppression, hatred, and violence, a wish which I expect will be realized in the near future.
Thank you very much.
Us or Against Us
President Ahmadinijad of Iran addresses the United Nations General Assembly:
SPEAKER: IRANIAN PRESIDENT MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): In the name of God, the compassionate and the merciful, oh, God, hasten the arrival of Imam al-Mahdi and grant him good health and victory and make us his followers and those who attest to his rightfulness.
Mr. President, excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased and grateful to the almighty to have the opportunity once again to attend this important universal forum.
In the present tumultuous world and with the predominance of loud outcries, threats and tensions, and at a time when the big powers are unable to solve present problems, when mistrust in regional and international arenas is on the rise, when the psychological security of societies is being targeted by an onslaught of political and propaganda designs, and disappointment prevails over efficacy of policies and actions of the international organizations in the establishment of a durable peace and security, and the protection of human rights is being weakened, I plan to touch upon and explain the roots of and the ways out of these predicaments and some of the principal challenges facing our world.
I will also speak to you about the need for remedying the present situation, prospects for a brighter and more hopeful future, and about the appearance of the sublime and beauty, compassion and generosity, justice and blossoming of all the God-given human talents and the prominence of faith in God and realization of the promise of God.
I will then submit to your judgment the nuclear issue of Iran as a reality and testing ground for the measurement of honesty, efficacy, steadfastness and accomplishment.
In the closing part of my statement, I will offer my proposals.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Dear friends and colleagues, as you are all aware, mankind is currently facing important, numerous and diverse challenges and I will refer to some of them.
One, organized attempts to destroy the institution of family and to weaken the status of women. Family is the most sacred and valuable human institution that serves as the center of the purest mutual love and affection amongst mothers, fathers and children, and as a safe environment for the nurturing of human generations and a fertile ground for the blossoming of talents and compassion.
This institution has always been respected by all peoples, religions and cultures. Today, we are witnessing an organized invasion by the enemies of humanity and plunderers to destroy this noble institution that is targeted by promoting lewdness, violence and by breaking the boundaries of chastity and decency.
The precious existence of women, as the manifestation of divine beauty and as the peak of kindness, affection and purity has been the target of heavy exploitation in recent decades by the holders of power and the owners of media and wealth.
In some societies, this beloved human has been reduced to a mere instrument of publicity and all the boundaries and protective shields of chastity, purity and beauty have been trampled. This is a colossal betrayal of human society, of succeeding generations and an irreparable blow to the pillar of social coherence, the family.
Two, widespread violations of human rights, terrorism and occupation.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Unfortunately, human rights are being extensively violated by certain powers, especially by those who pretend to be their exclusive advocates.
Setting up secret prisons, abducting persons, trials and secret punishments, without any regard to due process, extensive tappings of telephone conversations, intercepting private mail, and frequent summons to police and security centers have become commonplace and prevalent.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): They use various pretexts to occupy sovereign states and cause insecurity and division, and then use the prevailing situation as an excuse to continue their occupation.
For more than 60 years, Palestine, as compensation for the loss that they incurred during the war in Europe, has been under occupation of the illegal Zionist regime.
The Palestinian people have been displaced or are under heavy military pressure, economic siege, or are incarcerated under abhorrent conditions. The occupiers are protected and praised, while the innocent Palestinians are subjected to political, military, and propaganda onslaught.
The people of Palestine are deprived of water, electricity, and medicine for the sin of asking for freedom. And the government that was freely elected by the people is targeted.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Terrorists are being organized to attack the lives and property of the people with the blessings of the politicians and military officials of the big powers. The brutal Zionists carry out targeted assassinations of Palestinians in their homes and cities, and terrorists are decorated with medals of peace and receive support from the big powers.
On the other hand, they gather a number of Jews from different parts of the world through false propaganda and with the promise of providing them with welfare, jobs and food, and settle them in the occupied territories, exposing them to the harshest restrictions, psychological pressures and constant threats.
They prevent these people from returning to their homelands and by coercion and propaganda induce them to malevolence toward the indigenous Palestinian people.
Iraq was occupied under the pretext of overthrowing a dictator and the existence of weapons of mass destruction. The Iraqi dictator, who had been supported by the same occupiers, was disposed of, and no weapons of mass destruction were discovered. But the occupation continues under different excuses. No day passes without people being killed, wounded or displaced. And the occupiers not only refuse to be accountable and ashamed of their adventure, but speak in a report of a new market for their armaments as a result of their military adventure.
They even oppose the constitution the national assembly and the government established by the vote of the people while they do not even have the courage to declare their defeat and exit Iraq.
Unfortunately, we are witnessing the biter truth that some powers do not value any nation or human beings and the only things that matter to them are themselves, their political parties and their groups.
In their view, human rights are tantamount to profits for their companies and their friends. The rights and dignity of the American people are also being sacrificed for the selfish desires of those holding power.
Three, aggressions against indigenous cultures and national values.
Culture is the manifestation of identity and the key to the survival of nations and the foundation for their interaction with others. In an organized movement, indigenous cultures that are messengers of monotheism, love and fraternity are being subjected to broad and destructive aggressions. National customs and values are humiliated, and the self-esteem and character of nations are ridiculed and defamed.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): The purpose is to promote blind emulations, consumerism, skepticism toward God and human values, and plundering other people's wealth by big powers.
Fourth: Poverty, illiteracy, health care issues, and the gap between the poor and rich. While a major part of the natural environment in Asia, Africa, and Latin American is being plundered by the political and economic domination of certain powers, the situation of poverty and depravation is very alarming.
Let me draw your attention to some data which was issued by the United Nations. Every day, close to 800 million people go to bed hungry, and about 980 million suffered from absolute poverty with less than $1 a day in purchasing power.
People of 31 countries, equivalent to 9 percent of the world's population, have an average life expectancy of 46 years, which is 32 years less than the average of developed countries.
The gap between the rich and the poor in some parts of the world has increased by 40 times, and many countries, the majority of the people are deprived of access to education and schooling.
In developing countries, the maternal mortality rate during pregnancy is 450 per 100,000. This ratio is seven in the richer nations and the ratio of mortality of new births is 59 for developing countries and six for the richer nations. One-third of the deaths in the world, or 50,000 people daily, result from poverty. I believe this data clearly demonstrates the tragic situation dominating economic interactions in the world.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Five: Ignoring noble values and the promotion of deception and lies. Some powers sacrifice all human values, including honesty, purity, and trust for the advancement of their goals.
They propagate skepticism and deception in their relations between states and peoples. They lie openly, level baseless charges against others, act contrary to legal norms and damage the climate of trust and friendship.
They openly abandon morality and noble values in their relations with others and substitute selfishness, supremacy, amnesty and imposition for justice, respect for others, love, affection and honesty. They sacrifice all the good things and the sublime in life for their own greed.
Six: Violations of rules of international law and disrespect of commitments. Some who were themselves the drafters of international law openly and easily violate it and apply discriminatory policies and double standards to others. They drafted disarmament regulations, but every day test and stock pile new generations of lethal weapons.
They frame the Charter of the United Nations, but show disrespect to the right of self-determination and independence of sovereign nations. They conveniently abrogate their (inaudible) and do not yield to laws concerning protection of the environment. Most of the violations of international obligations are committed by a few global powers.
Seven: Escalation of threats and the arms race.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Some powers, whenever their logic fails, simply use the language of threat. The huge arms race casts a shadow of threats over the globe. The nations of Europe were the victims of two world wars and a number of other devastating conflicts and were subjected to the consequences of the Cold War for many decades.
Today, they're living under the shadow of the threat and their interests, security and lands are endangered under the shadow of the arms race imposed by certain big powers. A bullying power allows itself the right to set up a missile system, makes the life of the people of the continent bitter and lays the ground for an arms race.
Some rulers, who superficially appear to be powerful, believe the tools they have at hand can be used at any time and for any purpose, and consequently, threaten others and cast a shadow of insecurity over nations and regions.
International organizations and mechanisms clearly lack the capacity to overcome problems and challenges to put in fair -- place fair and just relations of peace, fraternity and security. There is hardly any government or nation that places much hope in these mechanisms to secure its rights or defend its independence, territorial integrity and national interests.
Dear friends and colleagues, there are many more challenges than the ones I have enumerated and I know that one would have introduced more if one had wanted to touch upon them. But I chose to confine myself to the ones I have stated. Now the important and decisive question concerns the roots and causes of these challenges.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): A scientific and careful analysis shows that the root of the present situation lies in two fundamental factors.
Without doubt, the first factor lies in the relations arising from the consequences of the Second World War. The victors of the war drew the road map for global domination and formulated their policies not on the basis of justice, but for ensuring the interests of the victors over the vanquished nations.
Therefore, mechanisms arising from this approach and related policies have not been capable of finding just solutions for global solutions since 60 years ago.
Some big powers still behave like the victors of the world war and regard other states and nations, even those that had nothing to do with the war, as the vanquished and humiliate other nations and demand extortion through condescending positions similar to that of the master-servant relationship of the Medieval ages.
They believe that they should have more rights than others and also are not accountable to any international organizations.
Mr. President, among all the ineffective bodies, unfortunately the U.N. Security Council ranks first. They have created circumstances in which some powers with exclusive and special right to veto in the Security Council act as prosecutor, judge and executioner, regardless of being a defendant or respondent.
It is natural for countries have been subjected to those powers' infringements of their rights have no hope in getting what they deserve from the council.
Unfortunately, humanity has witnessed in all long wars, like the Korean and Vietnam wars, the war of the Zionists against the Palestinians and against Lebanon, the war of Saddam against the people of Iran, and the ethnic wards of Europe and Africa, one of the members of the Security Council was one of the belligerents who supported one party against the other, usually the aggressor for the conflict itself.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Let's look at Iraq. They first occupied the country and then received authorization from the Security Council, the same council in which the same occupiers have the right to veto.
Who should the people of Iraq complain about? And where should they take their complaints with hopes of securing their rights?
We saw in Lebanon that some powers for a long 33 days prevented the Security Council from taking any action against the Zionist regime with the hope of giving them time to achieve victory.
However, when they became disappointed in seeing their hopes unfulfilled, they decided to cease the hostility by adopting a resolution. But the duty of the Security Council is to prevent the expansion of conflicts, to put in place cease-fires, and to promote peace and safety.
To whom and what organization should the people of Lebanon complain?
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the presence of some monopolistic powers has prevented the Security Council from performing its main duty which is the maintenance of international peace and security based on justice.
The credibility of the council has been tarnished and its efficacy in defending the rights of the U.N. member states has been undermined. Many nations have lost their confidence in the council.
Some other mechanisms, such as the monetary and banking mechanisms, are in the same undesirable situation and have been turned into tools for the imposition of the wishes of some powers on other nations.
It is evident that these mechanisms are not capable of responding to current needs and solving challenges and establishing fair and sustainable relations.
Dear colleagues, again, there is no doubt that the second and more important factor is some big powers' disregard of morals, divine values, the teachings of the prophets and the instructions by the almighty God, as well as the rule of the (inaudible).
How can the incompetents, who cannot even manage and control themselves, rule humanity and arrange its affairs?
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Unfortunately, they have put themselves in the position of God. They were in servitude to their own whims and the desire to have everything for themselves.
For them, human dignity and the lives, properties, and territories of others are no longer respected. Humanity has had a deep wound on its tired body, caused by impious powers, for centuries.
Today, the problems that people around the world face are mainly rooted in the disregard of human values and ethics, and also in the rule of the selfish and incompetent.
Friends, ladies, and gentlemen, the only sustainable way to the betterment of mankind is the return to the teachings of the divine prophets, monotheism, respect for the dignity of humans, and the flow of love and affection in all relationships, ties, and regulations, and to reform the present structures on this basis.
To fulfill this objective, I invite everyone -- everybody to form a front of fraternity, amity, and sustainable peace, based on monotheism and justice, under the name of "Coalition for Peace," (ph) to prevent incursions and arrogance and to promote the culture of affection and justice.
I hereby announce that, with the help of all independent, justice-seeking and peace-loving nations, the Islamic Republic of Iran will be heading down this path.
Monotheism, justice, and compassion for humans should dominate all the pillars of the U.N. And this organization should be a forum for justice, and every member should enjoy equal spiritual and legal support.
The general assembly, as the representative of the international community, should be considered the most important pillar of the U.N., in order to, free from any pressure and threats by the powers, take required measures for the reforming of the U.N. structures, and especially change the present status of the Security Council and defined new structures, based on justice and democracy with the purpose of becoming responsive to the present requirements and to be able to settle existing challenges, heading to the establishment of an enduring stability and security.
Mr. President, Excellencies, the nuclear issue of Iran is a clear example of how such mechanisms perform and the prevailing thoughts behind them.
You are all aware that Iran is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency and has always observed its rules and regulation, and has had the most extensive cooperation with this agency in all areas.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): All our nuclear activities have been completely peaceful and transparent. According to the statute of the IAEA, any member has a number of rights and obligations. In fact, all members have to stay on a peaceful path and, under the supervision of the agency, assist other members. And they are entitled to be supported by the agency and have access to the fuel cycle with the help of the agency and its members.
Thus far, Iran has fulfilled all of its obligations but has been deprived of other members' technical assistance and, even at times, of the agency's support.
For about five years, some of the aforementioned powers have, by exerting heavy pressure on the IAEA, attempted to prevent the Iranian nation from exercising its rights. They have derailed Iran's nuclear issue from its legal tracks and have politicized the atmosphere to impose their wishes through taking advantage of all their potentials.
The government of Iran spared no effort to build confidence. But they were not satisfied with anything short of the complete halt of all activities, even those related to research and university fields. They were only after depriving the Iranian people of their inalienable rights, even to the extent that those centers not involved in the fuel cycle or not in need of supervision by the agency were closed.
After three years of negotiations and attempts to build confidence, the Iranian nation came to the firm belief that the main concern of these powers is not the possible deviation of Iran's nuclear activities, but is to prevent its scientific progress under this pretext.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): And if this trend continues, there will be no possibility for Iran to enjoy its rights, not even in the next 20 years.
Therefore, Iran decided to pursue the issue through its appropriate, legal path, one that runs through the IAEA, and to disregard unlawful and political impositions by the arrogant powers.
In the last two years, abusing the Security Council, the arrogant powers have repeatedly accused Iran and even made military threats and imposed illegal sanctions against it.
However, by the grace of faith in God and national unity, Iran has moved forward step by step, and now our country is recognized as one with the capacity for industrial-scale fuel cycle production for peaceful purposes.
Unfortunately, the Security Council, in dealing with this obvious legal issue, was influenced by some bullying powers and failed to uphold justice and protect the rights of the Iranian people.
Fortunately, the IAEA has recently tried to regain its legal role as supporter of the rights of its members while supervising nuclear activities. We see this as a correct approach adopted by the agency.
Previously, they illegally insisted on politicizing the Iranian nation's nuclear case, but today, because of the resistance of the Iranian nation, the issue is back to the agency.
And I officially announce that in our opinion the nuclear issue of Iran is now closed and has turned into an ordinary agency matter.
Today, many important questions have been raised about the nuclear activities of certain powers within the IAEA which should be dealt with properly.
Of course, Iran has always been and will be prepared to have constructive talks with all parties. I would like to thank all the nations and countries that during this difficult period defended the legal rights of my nation and motherland. And I also want to appreciate the members of the Non-Aligned Movement, our friends in the Security Council and the IAEA's Board of Governors, the committed and law-abiding experts of the agency, and its director general, for their standing by the law.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): I would also like to announce that, unlike the monopolistic powers, the Iranian nation is ready to offer to other members its experiences in the form of educational programs and based on its obligations under the agency's statue and under its supervision.
Now I would like to address those who have shown hostility toward the Iranian nation for about five years, offended and accused my people who have contributed to the history and civilization of the world. And I advise them to learn from history and their recent actions.
They badly mistreated the great Iranian nation, but they should be careful not to inflict the same on other members of international organizations and not to sacrifice the dignity of international organizations for the sake of their unlawful wishes.
Today, the nations of the world are wide awake and resistant. If you reform yourself, the world, the whole world will be reformed. Nations are inherently good and can coexist peacefully. Those powers should endeavor to serve their own people, others do not need them.
Is it not high time for these powers to return from the path of arrogance and obedience to Satan to the path of faith in God? Would they not like to be cleansed of the impurities, submit to the will of God and believe in him?
Faith in God means believing in honesty, purity, justice and compassion for others. They can be certain that they will benefit from purity, honesty, justice, and loving and respecting the human dignity.
They can also be certain that such values are more and more considered appropriate, valuable and beautiful by the nations of the world.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): This is the invitation of all the divine prophets, from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus Christ, and Mohammed, peace be upon up him. If they accept this invitation, they will be saved. And if they don't, the same calamities that befell the people of distant past will befall them, as well.
According to the Holy Koran, one who does not answer the divine call should not think that he has weakened God on earth. He has no companion but God and he is clearly engulfed by darkness. They have nothing of their own and cannot escape from the dominion of the rule of God and his will.
In this important gathering, I have to remind them of the following words of the almighty which has been mentioned in the Holy Koran. Do they not look at the powers and governments which came before them? If the people of the past had actually possessed something, they would have kept it and would not have let you possess it now.
God destroyed them because of their sins and nobody could protect them against the will of god. These powers have to know that the thoughts and methods based on oppression and injustice are doomed to failure. Do they not see the signs of vigilance and resistance based on monotheism, philanthropy and the justice-seeking spirit of the nations of the world? Do they not notice that we are nearing the sunset of the time of empires? I hope that this invitation will have a practical answer.
Excellencies, peoples and governments are not obliged to obey the injustice of certain powers. These powers, because of the reasons already mentioned, have lost the competence to lead the world. I officially declare that the age of relations arising from the second World War, as well as the era of materialistic thoughts based on arrogance and domination, is well over now.
AHMADINEJAD (THROUGH TRANSLATOR): Humanity has passed a perilous precipice, and the age of monotheism, purity, affinity, respecting others, justice and true peace-loving has commenced.
It is a divine promise that the truth will be victorious and the Earth will be inherited by the righteous. You who are free, believers and the people of the world, put your trust in God.
You who crave high values, wherever you are, try to prepare the grounds for the fulfillment of this great divine promise by serving the people and seeking justice.
The era of darkness will end. Prisoners will return home. The occupied lands will be freed. Palestine and Iraq will be liberated from the domination of the occupiers. And the people of America and Europe will be free of the pressures exerted by the Zionists.
The tenderhearted and humanity-loving governments will replace the aggressive and domineering ones. Human dignity will be regained.
The pleasing aroma of justice will permeate the world, and people will live together in a brotherly and affectionate manner.
Striving in this way to surrender rule to the righteous and perfect human, the promised one, is indeed the final cure for the wounds of humanity, the solution of all problems and the establishment of love, beauty, justice and a dignified life all over the world.
This belief and endeavor is the key to unity and the constructive interaction among nations, countries, the people of the world and all the true justice seekers.
Without any doubt, the promised one who is the ultimate savior, along with Jesus Christ and other holy saviors, will come. In the company of all believers, justice seekers and benefactors, he will establish a bright future and fill the world with justice and duty.
This is the promise of God, therefore it will be fulfilled.
Come, let's play a part in the fulfillment of all this glory and duty. I wish for a bright future for all human beings and the dawn of the liberation of and freedom for all humans, and the rule of love and affection all around the world, as well as the elimination of oppression, hatred, and violence, a wish which I expect will be realized in the near future.
Thank you very much.
24.9.07
Why do Americans hate other people so much? Is it because Israel has taught them that everyone except Israel is a bad guy?
The only bad thing we see is an illegal state that murders people day in and day out, destroys their life and their culture, villifies and starves them and never stops whining about poor little Israel.
"Well, you have to appreciate we don't need a nuclear bomb. We don't need that. What need do we have for a bomb?" Ahmadinejad said in the "60 Minutes" interview taped in Iran on Thursday. "In political relations right now, the nuclear bomb is of no use. If it was useful it would have prevented the downfall of the Soviet Union." That's Ahmadinijad for you...a straight shooter, a kind and educated man, a man of faith and a man who knows how he will be remembered.
The only bad thing we see is an illegal state that murders people day in and day out, destroys their life and their culture, villifies and starves them and never stops whining about poor little Israel.
"Well, you have to appreciate we don't need a nuclear bomb. We don't need that. What need do we have for a bomb?" Ahmadinejad said in the "60 Minutes" interview taped in Iran on Thursday. "In political relations right now, the nuclear bomb is of no use. If it was useful it would have prevented the downfall of the Soviet Union." That's Ahmadinijad for you...a straight shooter, a kind and educated man, a man of faith and a man who knows how he will be remembered.
23.9.07
Nuclear Inspection on Israel NOW. THAT is what American's should be demanding from their, ahem, politicians.
22.9.07
Supplication for a
Reading in March
Last night my Allah
you brought to me
Spring Ulmer and thank you
for that, for bringing
a voice from the prisons
and killing fields
I have not seen before.
Last night my Allah
you told me a secret
about all of us
while she was reading
and the windows were open
without screens to filter
the sounds of the merry
making below in Brewery
Gulch, the sounds
of the Harley Davidsons
speeding off and the squealing,
drunken women and men.
Last night my Allah
you kept the gnats
from biting my flesh
so that the windows
could remain open
and cool my mighty thirst
for words and the outdoors.
Last night my Allah
you crept in through
the lips of an athiest
and told me that
we are the successful
and I thank you for that.
Last night my Allah
you hinted that Mr. Ali
would come here
in March and I said,
as I hoped, in'sha'allah.
My Allah, please do not
take Mr. Ali from this world
before March, I implore you.
Please my Allah do not
take me either until
I hear Mr. Ali speak
and have made my Haj.
Last night my Allah
the windows were open
and those you created
from clay and water
made laughter and chaos
and it bled into the room,
where the night
had overtaken the day.
And you put off the chastisement
for another day or another
year, put off the victory
so we could enjoy the loss
and the way it sounds
to our shell shaped ears
for just a bit more.
But please Allah do not
take Mr. Ali before March
and he stands on the stage
in Arizona and knows that I am here.
I want Mr. Ali to know
that I am here and that he came
as if to see only me
and tell me that he
knows about all of this.
My Allah I know two
of your secrets, I know
that there are no accidents
and that you created
the Sun after you created
the shadow. So please
do not take me before
my Haj and do not
take Mr. Ali before
he comes to visit me here.
On Supplications
Reading in March
Last night my Allah
you brought to me
Spring Ulmer and thank you
for that, for bringing
a voice from the prisons
and killing fields
I have not seen before.
Last night my Allah
you told me a secret
about all of us
while she was reading
and the windows were open
without screens to filter
the sounds of the merry
making below in Brewery
Gulch, the sounds
of the Harley Davidsons
speeding off and the squealing,
drunken women and men.
Last night my Allah
you kept the gnats
from biting my flesh
so that the windows
could remain open
and cool my mighty thirst
for words and the outdoors.
Last night my Allah
you crept in through
the lips of an athiest
and told me that
we are the successful
and I thank you for that.
Last night my Allah
you hinted that Mr. Ali
would come here
in March and I said,
as I hoped, in'sha'allah.
My Allah, please do not
take Mr. Ali from this world
before March, I implore you.
Please my Allah do not
take me either until
I hear Mr. Ali speak
and have made my Haj.
Last night my Allah
the windows were open
and those you created
from clay and water
made laughter and chaos
and it bled into the room,
where the night
had overtaken the day.
And you put off the chastisement
for another day or another
year, put off the victory
so we could enjoy the loss
and the way it sounds
to our shell shaped ears
for just a bit more.
But please Allah do not
take Mr. Ali before March
and he stands on the stage
in Arizona and knows that I am here.
I want Mr. Ali to know
that I am here and that he came
as if to see only me
and tell me that he
knows about all of this.
My Allah I know two
of your secrets, I know
that there are no accidents
and that you created
the Sun after you created
the shadow. So please
do not take me before
my Haj and do not
take Mr. Ali before
he comes to visit me here.
On Supplications
Live Video From Baghdad
This is one of my all time favorites. It is about how America (and Saudi Arabia who funds Al Qaeda) gave the little Iraqi kids cancer. Heartwarming.
This is one of my all time favorites. It is about how America (and Saudi Arabia who funds Al Qaeda) gave the little Iraqi kids cancer. Heartwarming.
I must have been born to a band of gypsies and adopted by kindly gringos.
Israel's DEATH JUNKIES to squeeze the life out of Gaza one megawatt and baby at a time:
"This Thursday, the Israeli cabinet's decision to declare the 8-kilometer-wide, 23km-long, arid Gaza Strip a "hostile territory" has started to be translated by facts on the ground."
Meanwhile, back in the bat lair, an Israeli independent death squad squashes a Palestinian kid like a bug. Go team, go bees!
What is Zionism you ask? A fool's mission, that is what it is.
21.9.07
Is Bisbee Arizona really the center of the universe? Yes, yes..it is.
Spring Ulmer live Friday night September 21 at 7:30 at the Central School Project in old Bisbee. Admission is free although donations are suggested. Go here to see some truly fantastic images of Spring and by Spring. I'm so lucky you know. Why me? Why not me!
October 5, David Meltzer and Michael Rothenberg at CSP for the pious admission price of 6 bucks (which would be 48 bits). Which is about six shavesandahaircuts down here.
Spring Ulmer live Friday night September 21 at 7:30 at the Central School Project in old Bisbee. Admission is free although donations are suggested. Go here to see some truly fantastic images of Spring and by Spring. I'm so lucky you know. Why me? Why not me!
October 5, David Meltzer and Michael Rothenberg at CSP for the pious admission price of 6 bucks (which would be 48 bits). Which is about six shavesandahaircuts down here.
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