“For many of us, these actions are seen as support against the regime that has oppressed our people for decades.”
Those words come from Hamidreza Nasiri, an Iranian living in Prince George, who says numerous Iranians are not upset about the military actions taken by the United States and Israel in Iran.
It was confirmed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an airstrike on Saturday.
“For nearly half a century, this government has ruled through fear and oppression,” Nasiri said.
“Many families in Iran have directly suffered from action. Two months ago, they killed around 40,000 people in the street, people that just wanted human rights and freedom. Some people would ask why Iranians would welcome outside help and war, it is pretty simple, if a thief breaks into your house and threatens your family, you will call the police for help.”
He added many Iranians are hopeful about the future.
“For the first time in many years, there is a figure who represents hope for unity amongst many Iranians, and that is Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah of Iran,” Nasiri said.
He said many people believe Pahlavi could play an important role in guiding the country to a democratic transition.
“Iran has great background and great history, we had a very nice and very rich country before the Islamic Revolution,” he said.
“I think after falling the Islamic government, after that, if Prince Reza Pahlavi comes to Iran and starts to build, constructing the country, making good communication with countries around the world, Israel, Canada, U.S., every country, I think after that, we will be much better in a financial aspect, and the other problems will be solved step by step.”
After the war started, Nasiri said internet access was cut, but he was still able to get in brief contact with his sister in Iran.
“My sister in Iran could send me two messages, text messages,” he said.
“She said that “we are okay, don’t worry about that, we will gain our human rights, we will gain our freedom.””
Nasiri adds he wants to see Canadian leaders continue supporting Iranian people throughout this struggle.
“Even a small statement of support for people of Iran can have a powerful impact,” he said.
“It can give hope to millions who are fighting for freedom. Iranian people deserve a future with democracy, human rights, and peace. After many years of suffering, we hope they are finally approaching.”
–This story has been updated to correct an error, which misquoted a number said by Nasiri
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