TEHRAN: Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei convened with a group of first-time voters and esteemed families of martyrs.
During this gathering, he emphasized that the robust and widespread participation of the Iranian populace in elections serves as a demonstration of national strength, ensures national security, and thwarts the ambitions of Iran’s adversaries, as per khamenei.ir.
Ayatollah Khamenei underscored that conducting vibrant elections stands as a cornerstone in the effective governance of the nation and serves as a pathway toward addressing Iran’s challenges and propelling the nation forward.
Reflecting on the pre-revolution era, Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted the manipulation of elections by elements within the Pahlavi regime, where candidates were predetermined within the Shah’s court or even foreign embassies, as acknowledged by some.
Drawing parallels with other major revolutions, he emphasized Imam Khomeini’s trust in the people’s judgment, exemplified by the swift referendum on the type of government post-Revolution, entrusting the populace as the ultimate decision-makers.
Ayatollah Khamenei cautioned against the vigilant gaze of adversaries towards Iran, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. He asserted that the U.S., European policies, Zionists, capitalists, and other interested entities fear the Iranian people’s participation, recognizing the potency of popular influence that dismantled tyrannical regimes and thwarted external aggression.
Highlighting the significance of robust electoral engagement, Ayatollah Khamenei stressed its role in bolstering national security, asserting that any perceived weakness could invite threats from various quarters. He emphasized that the election of capable candidates and the formation of a robust parliament are pivotal in addressing national issues and ensuring progress.
Ayatollah Khamenei further underscored the educational value of elections, particularly in enhancing political awareness and analytical skills among the youth, crucial for countering adversaries’ machinations.
In his concluding remarks, Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized the pivotal status of the Gaza issue in the Islamic world, illustrating how it showcased the resilience of Islam in the face of oppression.
He criticized Western policies and their failure to acknowledge Zionist atrocities, highlighting the disgraceful nature of such actions, as epitomized by the recent self-immolation protest by a U.S. Air Force officer. Ayatollah Khamenei expressed optimism for the triumph of Islam, Muslims, and particularly Palestine, including Gaza, invoking divine assistance for their cause.
