The View from Washington: Bush On Iranian Youth

In recent days, President George W. Bush has repeatedly spoken in support of the aspirations of the Iranian people, especially the youth. In a press conference in Istanbul, he stated that successful democracies in Afghanistan and Iraq would serve as powerful examples for other countries in the region, particularly Iran. 'Note that there are those inside Iran who are watching what is happening... aware, professional, and dynamic youth who want to be free. And they want to know if they will have such an opportunity or not.' Mr. Bush, in remarks at Galatasaray University in Istanbul, said that the youth of Iran, like others around the world, are caught in a struggle between tyranny and a government that represents the people. 'We are witnessing such a struggle in Iran. There, tired and discredited autocrats are trying to suppress the democratic will of a rising generation.' Mr. Bush made these remarks just days before the fifth anniversary of the July 9 uprising in Iran, which began with protests in Tehran following the closure of a reformist newspaper. Security forces beat, arrested, and killed students who protested. Following this, thousands across Iran rose in rebellion. The protests were brutally suppressed. Since 1999, June and July have been tense months in Iran, as students and others attempt to commemorate the anniversary of the uprising, while the government seeks to stifle any dissent. In the lead-up to last June's anniversary, four thousand people were arrested during a wave of reformist protests, and the government banned any commemorative events. Iranian authorities have announced a similar ban this year. Furthermore, according to news reports, special police forces have apparently filled the streets of Tehran to assist traffic police. A student leader told Reuters that the presence of special police creates a dangerous atmosphere in the city. Nevertheless, the future belongs not to the autocrats and dictators like the rulers of Iran, but to the brave and aware men and women they seek to suppress. President Bush states: 'The rule of free nations in the Middle East will be established. And Americans will use all their strength to help them find the blessings of freedom.'