My Reasons for Protesting against Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi
Last week marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic murder of Mahsa Amini, who was brutally killed by the Iranian regime for not adhering to their dress code. This incident sparked widespread protests across Iran as women fought for their rights and for the liberation of their country from oppressive rule. These brave protestors, many of whom lost their lives, served as an inspiration, standing up for their beliefs in the face of a brutal theocratic regime.
However, it is disheartening to witness the President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, being given the red-carpet treatment and allowed to address the United Nations. Despite this, I felt compelled to draw the attention of the international community to the atrocities committed by Raisi and his regime, as I empathize with the suffering of the Iranian people.
Iran’s actions extend beyond exporting terror – they terrorize their own citizens. In contrast, Israel does not remain present in the General Assembly Hall to listen to a leader who threatens their existence. Therefore, when Raisi started his speech, I silently stood up and exited the hall while holding a photo of Mahsa Amini, with the words “Iranian women deserve freedom now” written beside it. To my surprise, I was forcefully removed by two UN security officers.
It was a shocking experience to witness the leader of an oppressive regime, who openly called for the destruction of my democratic country, being granted a platform to spread lies, hatred, and antisemitism. Meanwhile, I was detained for silently protesting. I never expected to be the first UN ambassador detained by UN security. This incident revealed the UN’s moral compass being lost.
Decades ago, Israel had close relations with Iran, but the dynamics changed entirely after the 1979 revolution. The Iranian leader’s visit coincided with the first anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s killing due to her attire.
Today, Iran’s relentless pursuit of nuclear capabilities poses an existential threat not only to Israel but to the entire world. Their recent expulsion of International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors and blocking of camera access to nuclear sites are deeply concerning. Additionally, Iran, as the leading state sponsor of terrorism, supports numerous terror groups across the region, whose sole aim is to harm Israelis.
It is crucial to recognize that Iran’s dangerous behavior threatens not only Israel but the entire international community. They openly vow to kill American officials and dissident journalists. This alarming situation prompted the Saudi Crown Prince to warn that they would seek nuclear capabilities if Iran does.
The international community must wake up and act swiftly before it’s too late. Allowing Iran to become a nuclear threshold state would result in a significant escalation of their malign activities worldwide. We cannot allow such a horrific scenario to become a reality.
My intention was not to seek attention or detainment during my visit to the UN. Instead, I aimed to bring attention to Iran’s pervasive human rights violations and the global danger posed by the ayatollahs. The overwhelming support I have received from people worldwide, including Iranians, has been greatly appreciated. To them, I want to emphasize that the few minutes of my detention were a small price to pay on behalf of the innocent Iranians who suffer daily under this regime.
My faith remains unwavering, and I will continue to stand with the Iranian people on the right side of history. Nothing will deter me from doing what is right. The people of Israel stand in solidarity with the people of Iran.
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