Foreign Intervention Fuels Conflict, Not Prosperity: A Moral and Religious Imperative
Tehran, Iran – True peace and national prosperity cannot be achieved through the intervention of foreign powers, which often disguise their ambitions with false promises of assistance, according to prominent analyst Hadi Soroush. He argues that such external interference, driven by insatiable greed, inevitably leads to devastation for nations that resist their demands.
The Illusion of Foreign “Aid”
Soroush’s analysis, shared with Shafaqna, highlights the deceptive tactics employed by those seeking to dominate nations. Instead of openly declaring enmity, foreign actors often feign a desire to “help the people,” only to unleash destruction upon countries that dare to reject their hegemonic aspirations. He warns that some within the nation might fall prey to these deceptive narratives, only to witness the stark reality of foreign promises proving hollow and replete with oppression.
A Call to Conscience and Faith
Addressing those who may hold a more favorable view of foreign intervention, Soroush frames his argument from both a moral and a religious perspective.
The Moral Compass of Humanity
From a moral standpoint, Soroush poses stark questions:
- Can those who have attacked schools, staining children’s belongings with blood, truly be considered friends or patriots?
- Can those who disrupt the sleep of innocent children and cause mothers to tremble in fear claim any semblance of humanity?
- Can those who show no mercy to neighboring homes in the pursuit of a single scientist, leaving families annihilated and bodies irretrievable, be seen as compassionate allies? He recounts a tragic incident in Qom where a night raid resulted in 18 martyrs, including four children sleeping beside their toys.
Soroush sternly cautions against becoming complicit in such injustices, even through silent consent. Citing the teachings of Shia Imams—Amir al-Mu’minin, Imam Baqir, and Imam Sadiq (peace be upon them)—he emphasizes that the oppressor, their helper, and those who are pleased with their oppression are all partners in injustice.
The Iranian Spirit of Unity
He asserts that grief for every oppressed soul is universal, regardless of the timing of their suffering, as the sanctity of both people and their blood is paramount. This, he states, is a core belief of every Iranian, whose patriotic spirit transcends borders. Soroush proudly declares that Iranians, both at home and abroad, possess a profound sense of conscience, altruism, and honor, and are deeply sensitive to the plight of their compatriots.
Lessons from History and Scripture
Historical precedent, Soroush points out, demonstrates that nations seeking refuge in foreign oppressors during times of hardship, such as after World War II, have never found true welfare or freedom. The experience, he warns, leads to profound regret and potentially irreversible losses.
Divine Guidance from the Quran
From a Quranic perspective, Soroush addresses the youth, urging them to reflect on divine guidance. He highlights the supplication of true believers who, upon responding to Moses’ call, prayed: “Our Lord, do not make us [a means of] affliction for the wrongdoing people.” (Quran 10:85). He notes that history is replete with instances where individuals, driven by naivety or animosity towards one oppressor, have fallen into the clutches of a greater one, becoming a “means of affliction for the wrongdoers” (Quran 37:63).
Islamic scholars, including the esteemed Sheikh Tusi and Allamah Tabatabai, have interpreted this to mean that believers should not become instruments that legitimize or empower oppressors, nor should they be exploited as a tool for their malevolent schemes. Allamah Tabatabai explains that powerful oppressors often deceive the vulnerable, using manipulative tactics for their own retribution – this, he states, is the very essence of creating an environment for oppression.
The Pervasive Nature of Destructive Influence
Soroush stresses that when plots and atrocities, regardless of their guise, infiltrate a society, the detrimental consequences—financial, physical, and psychological—affect everyone, from the elderly to children. The damage inflicted by oppression and sedition, he concludes, can linger for years, impacting both individual well-being and the fundamental structures of a nation. He quotes the Quran: “And fear a trial which will not strike those of you who have wronged exclusively, but know that Allah is severe in penalty.” (Quran 8:25). Therefore, he emphasizes, all must unite to block the path of foreign machinations, as their negative repercussions are far-reaching.
A Path Forward: National Resilience and Self-Reliance
In conclusion, Soroush urges vigilance, advising that in times of political, social, and economic hardship, the search for solutions must lie outside the realm of empowering adversaries. He asserts that relying on or legitimizing foreign powers is incompatible with both divine teachings and innate human conscience.