Map of Iran | Graphic by Emily Lewis | The Wright State Guardian
As conflict in Iran continues due to the government's enforcement of strict modesty policies, illicting protest and anger among Iranian citizens, global communities react to the situation.
Background information
Dr. Liam Anderson, political science professor at Wright State University, provided context about Iranian rule and history.
In 1979, Iran’s democratic regime was replaced by the now strict Shi’a Islam religious regime. Before 1979, the United States was in allyship with Iran; however, in 1980 with the new regime, that allyship ended.
Anderson explained the differences in cultures between the U.S. and Iran: the U.S. is very individualistic, whereas Iran has more of a collectivist culture.
Events in Iran
On Sept. 16, 2022, Iran’s Morality Police arrested Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman, for not wearing a hijab; Amini died in police custody, according to a release from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
This act against Amini, as well as other Iranian women and children, was a catalyst for protest. Anderson further described the ruling nature of the Iranian leader.
“The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, is a religious cleric and you don’t argue with him,” Anderson said.
As protests continue, so does brutality, resulting in more harm and deaths.
“On Sept. 30, 2022, after Friday prayers in the provincial capital, Zahedan, security forces fired live ammunition, tear gas, and metal pellets at protesters and bystanders, killing at least 80 people, including several children. Hundreds more were injured,” the USDT announced in an Oct. 26 press release.
According to Anderson, the United States policy on Iran is evident through sanction enforcement. The U.S. government has declared sanctions against the Iranian government for the sake of accountability, according to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken in the announcement.
“The United States is committed to working to promote justice and accountability for human rights violations and abuses in Iran,” Blinken said. “We will continue to find ways to support the people of Iran as they peacefully protest in defense of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
President Biden announced similar sentiments of support for both Iranian women and Iranian citizens at large, who are protesting against the violent acts the regime has enacted.
“The United States is making it easier for Iranians to access the Internet, including through facilitating greater access to secure, outside platforms and services,” Biden reported.
