Iranian Scholar Praises ‘Phenomenal’ Public Spirit, Citing Global Impact
Tehran, Iran – In a powerful statement resonating with national pride and spiritual conviction, Hojjat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen Hadi Soroush, a prominent Iranian scholar, has lauded the extraordinary resilience and profound influence of the Iranian people. Soroush’s remarks emphasize the foundational role of the populace in national strength and their recent demonstrations of unwavering resolve in the face of complex challenges.
The People: A Nation’s Enduring Foundation
Drawing from deeply rooted religious texts, Soroush highlighted the Islamic principle that “people are the pillar of the tent.” Citing Imam Ali’s words from Nahj al-Balagha, he underscored that the general populace is not merely the bedrock of faith and the catalyst for vibrant communities, but also an “astonishing force against enemies.” This belief, he noted, has been profoundly reinforced by recent events in Iran, which have surpassed prior expectations of the people’s capacity to “prove themselves.”
Soroush contrasted the current display of steadfastness with historical moments of Iranian resilience. He recalled the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which saw the nation rise against oppression, and the eight-year Sacred Defense (Iran-Iraq War), where the people heroically repelled aggression, inspired by the sacrifice of martyrs and visionary leadership.
Unwavering Resolve Amidst Adversity
Critically, Soroush emphasized that the contemporary demonstrations of public spirit have emerged despite significant internal challenges, including economic pressures and issues related to governance. He marveled at the people’s collective stand, which occurred even after a significant national loss and under unprecedented external pressures, referring to a period when “missiles and bombs rained down from various land, sea, and air points.”
The scholar recounted witnessing people from all walks of life – the elderly, women, children, and youth, including those with diverse interpretations of hijab – participating actively in public gatherings. This broad-based participation, he asserted, underscores the deep-seated commitment and unity of the Iranian nation, making them “miracle-makers” beyond ordinary description. He invoked a quote from the late Imam Khomeini, who once proclaimed the Iranian nation to be superior in resolve to historical communities in Hijaz and Iraq, highlighting Iran’s exceptional zeal.
Shifting Global Perceptions: A New Era
Soroush argued that the Iranian people’s “zeal” has yielded significant political outcomes on the international stage:
- It has “shattered the grandeur of the Western world.”
- It has “exposed the human rights slogans of the Western world” as hypocritical.
- It has contributed to portraying Israel in a negative light in global public opinion.
To support these assertions, Soroush cited reports from international media. He mentioned an article in the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, which reportedly stated: “Netanyahu believed in the myth of American power, a myth that no longer exists.” He also referenced CNN reporting that “Trump is now facing intertwined crises in this conflict. Tehran’s stubborn resistance has created the risk of a prolonged stalemate.” These external observations, Soroush suggested, are but a few examples of the global recognition of Iran’s strategic impact, predicting that future researchers will dedicate countless pages to the greatness of the Iranian people.
Guardians of the Nation: Acknowledging the Armed Forces
Beyond the civilian populace, Soroush extended profound praise to Iran’s armed forces. He hailed their “chivalry,” courage, unwavering faith, and deep national and religious convictions. These “children of the nation,” he stated, have miraculously defended Iran’s territory and sovereignty. He quoted an esteemed Iranian intellectual from beyond the country’s borders, who explicitly declared, “One must kiss the hands of the country’s armed defenders, and I feel humble before their courage and greatness.”
A Call to Action: Leaders’ Responsibility
Concluding his reflective piece, Soroush addressed the officials of the Islamic Republic, urging them to recognize and honor the invaluable spirit of the Iranian people. His message is a fervent call for renewed commitment from within the system:
“O Islamic System! Appreciate these people, kiss their hands before the eyes of the world, and vow to build their future. Grant them the right to vote and choose, do not deprive them of the right to know and the means of communication, and with wholehearted dedication and immense effort, provide them with more and more welfare and a high quality of life.”
