Obama Condemns Crackdown in Iran, Praises “Courageous” Dissenters

From Obama’s presser.

The United States and the international community have been appalled and outraged by the threats, beatings, and imprisonments of the last few days. I strongly condemn these unjust actions, and I join with the American people in mourning each and every innocent life that is lost.

I have made it clear that the United States respects the sovereignty of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and is not at all interfering in Iran’s affairs. But we must also bear witness to the courage and dignity of the Iranian people, and to a remarkable opening within Iranian society. And we deplore violence against innocent civilians anywhere that it takes place.

…

This is what we have witnessed. We have seen the timeless dignity of tens of thousands Iranians marching in silence. We have seen people of all ages risk everything to insist that their votes are counted and their voices heard. Above all, we have seen courageous women stand up to brutality and threats, and we have experienced the searing image of a woman bleeding to death on the streets. While this loss is raw and painful, we also know this: those who stand up for justice are always on the right side of history. 

Certainly seems to be taking a harder line, but undoubtedly, won’t be hard enough for the tough-talking neocon anklebiters.

Related posts:

1. House Voting on Iran Resolution; Human Rights Activist Not Against It, But…
2. Iran: Don’t Lead, Don’t Follow, and Instead Get Out of the Way
3. Negotiation Works? Iran Nears Agreement on Nuclear Deal
4. Politico on Obama Presser: “Oh, Noes! The Best Reporter on a Subject Got Called on!”
5. Biden on Iran: ‘Some Real Doubt’ About The Electoral Outcome