Gary Fitleberg, December 15, 2003

Iran’s extremist fundamentalists which control the country under the repressive regime of Ayatollah Khomeini are now condemning a symbol of human rights and peace. What is interesting to note in their condemnation and denunciation is the association with Israel one of the most democratic and freedom loving nations in the entire world.

Freedom of Speech is not tolerated in Iran unless one is one of the extremist fundamentalists within the religious ruling elite

Iranian extremist factions warned authorities in Tehran of the "provocations" that Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi, can generate, according to the London-based Arabic newspaper al-Hayat.

The Iranian Islamic militia, al-Basidge, issued a statement condemning Ebadi, whom they labeled "Sharon Ebadi," for appearing without a hijab (Muslim headscarf), shaking hands with men, and campaigning in Iranian universities.

The statement described Ehabi's behavior as challenging and insulting to Islam's principles and values, reported al-Hayat.

On December 3 rd, members of al-Basidge, including religious female students, violently protested in al-Zahra University in Tehran in order to prevent Ebadi from delivering a speech there.

Ms. Ebadi, who delivered an acceptance speech in Oslo, was caricatured in the conservative Kihan newspaper as "Sharon Ebadi" -- referring to Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.

In her acceptance speech, Ms. Ebadi said she hoped her award would bring faith to other activists in Islamic countries who are striving for freedom and human rights.

Reformist activists in Iran openly criticized the campaign that Ebadi was subjected to. In a commentary published in the Tehran-based "Yas-Ai-Nou," MP Ihali Koulay wondered, "Why is Ebadi being attacked at home and abroad?" MP Koulay is a leading reformer who strongly supported the reforms introduced recently by President Muhammad Khatami in Iran.

Iran cannot repress and suppress the voices of democracy and freedom, human rights, peace and tolerance forever. It is only a matter of time before the student revolts become Iran’s totalitarian regime’s downfall.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.

Copyright © 2003 Gary Fitleberg