Kerry Lake, head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees Voice of America, stated that the decision to choose a 'political leader for Iran' is not the responsibility of foreign news organizations but rather the exclusive right of '93 million citizens of Iran.' Lake wrote on her X account that the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) is committed to accurately covering developments in Iran, reflecting and amplifying the voices of the brave people of Iran, and transparently conveying U.S. foreign policy. She added that they are not in the business of selecting Iran's political leadership, as such an action by any foreign news organization would be irresponsible. This decision solely belongs to the 93 million citizens of Iran who have the right to determine their own fate. The head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media emphasized that the main focus should be on the people of Iran themselves, not on the various opposition groups outside of Iran. Highlighting opposition figures abroad instead of voices from within Iran risks externalizing the conflict in a way that only benefits the repressive regime and undermines protesters inside the country. She concluded by stating that highlighting a single voice would be inappropriate, and as President Trump has said, we should 'see who' will emerge as the next leader of Iran. President Trump predicted that the Islamic Republic might fall due to protests and addressed the protesters in Iran, stating that help is on the way and to record the names of the oppressors for accountability. The U.S. actions against the Islamic Republic and its clear stance towards the external opposition were also noted. Trump stated that the ultimate goal regarding the Iranian government is victory, and he conveyed a message to the people of Iran that their courage is recognized and respected worldwide.
Head of the Oversight Body for Voice of America: Our Job is Not to Choose a Leader for Iran, This Decision Belongs to 93 Million Iranians
Kerry Lake, head of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, emphasized that the choice of Iran's political leader is solely up to the Iranian people, not foreign organizations. She warned against highlighting external opposition figures, which could undermine domestic protests. This statement reflects U.S. support for Iranian citizens amidst ongoing protests against the regime.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Kerry Lake stated that the choice of Iran's political leader should be made by the Iranian people, not foreign organizations. She emphasized the importance of amplifying voices from within Iran over external opposition figures.
- The U.S. Agency for Global Media is committed to accurately covering developments in Iran.
- Highlighting external opposition risks undermining domestic protests against the Iranian regime.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has been experiencing significant protests against its government, with many citizens calling for political reform and greater freedoms. The role of external influences, including U.S. media, is a contentious issue.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%