Khamenei blames US airman’s self-immolation on ‘Western culture
Iran’s Supreme Leader Blames “Western Culture” for U.S. Airman’s Self-Immolation
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei on Wednesday attributed the self-immolation of U.S. airman Aaron Bushnell outside of the Israeli embassy in Washington, D.C. to “Western culture.”
“The genocide in Gaza is even too much for that young person who was brought up in the Western culture,” Khamenei said on X. “His conscience was hurting and he set himself on fire.”
Hours earlier, the ayatollah had also linked Bushnell’s actions to the “antihuman” policies propagated by the West.
“The West’s disgraceful antihuman policies with regard to the genocide in Gaza have reached such a point that a U.S. military officer sets himself on fire,” he stated in the earlier post.
Just after Khamenei made his posts, Iran’s Press TV eulogized Bushnell, describing his self-immolation as a “tragic protest against genocide” and a ”fiery stand for Palestine.” Its X post featured a video that included censored footage of his suicide.
Bushnell, before setting himself on fire outside the embassy and shouting “Free Palestine,” declared that he would “no longer be complicit in genocide.” He later succumbed to his injuries.
In the days following, left-wingers in the United States, including third-party presidential candidates Cornel West and Jill Stein, praised his actions. Additionally, Hamas hailed him, stating that he would “remain immortal in the memory of our Palestinian people.”
How did Ayatollah Khamenei ascend to the position of Supreme Leader?
Der Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: Background and Role in Iranian Politics
Introduction: The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds a significant position in the country’s political landscape. As the highest-ranking authority in Iran, Khamenei wields ultimate power over all major policy decisions, including those related to governance, foreign affairs, military, and religion. Understanding Khamenei’s background and role is crucial to comprehending the dynamics of contemporary Iranian politics. Biography: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was born on July 17, 1939, in Mashhad, Iran. Coming from a religious family, he displayed early signs of religious devotion and displayed a passion for Islamic studies. Under the guidance of prominent scholars, Khamenei became proficient in Arabic, Persian, and Islamic jurisprudence. He developed a reputation as a dedicated student and a thoughtful intellectual. Political Ascent: Khamenei’s political career began during his time as a student activist against the monarchy of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. In the 1960s and 1970s, Khamenei actively participated in anti-government demonstrations and worked alongside his mentor, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who would later become the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei played a pivotal role in shaping Iran’s new political order. Ascent to Supreme Leadership: In 1989, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini passed away, leaving a vacant position of Supreme Leader. Khamenei’s expertise in religious matters and his years of political activism earned him the top spot, with the Assembly of Experts – a body tasked with selecting the Supreme Leader – electing him as the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Since then, Khamenei has remained at the helm of Iran’s political system. Role and Powers: As the Supreme Leader, Khamenei holds the authority to govern Iran according to his interpretation of Islamic principles. He appoints the heads of key state institutions, including the judiciary, media, and military. Khamenei also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, placing him directly in charge of Iran’s vast military apparatus. Moreover, he plays a central role in approving candidates for key political offices, including the presidency and the Assembly of Experts. Khamenei’s Vision and Policies: Khamenei’s vision for Iran revolves around preserving the principles of the Islamic Revolution and safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and independence. He envisions an Iran free from foreign interference and strives for self-sufficiency in various sectors, including defense, technology, and economy. Khamenei has consistently expressed deep skepticism towards Western powers, particularly the United States, and advocates for an independent Iranian identity separate from Western influence. Legacy and Challenges: Throughout his tenure, Khamenei has faced both domestic and international challenges. The Islamic Republic has witnessed waves of protest, demanding political, social, and economic reforms. Additionally, Iran’s relationship with Western countries, particularly regarding its nuclear program, has been a subject of ongoing international scrutiny. Khamenei’s legacy will be shaped by how effectively he addresses these challenges while maintaining Iran’s strategic objectives. Conclusion: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s role as Iran’s Supreme Leader has been instrumental in shaping the country’s political landscape for over three decades. As the guardian of the Islamic Revolution’s core values, Khamenei continues to play a pivotal role in Iranian politics, affecting policies, national security, and domestic affairs. Understanding his background, powers, and vision is crucial to comprehending the dynamics of Iran’s political system.
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