Iranian protester pleads for U.S., world to intervene

But you use to burn our flags on television. Remember?
We support you by staying out of the way and spreading the news. Keep tweeting.

Iran in their fight for change:
How can I sit here in front of my television or computer screen and enjoy my freedom, my liberty when I am watching another fellow human being who deserves the same. And have decided to stand up even die for their liberty. I feel I must do and say something to support basic human rights. My heart cries and bleeds for the Iranian people. I ask our creator what can I do ; together we can speak out and stand up with them and some how help them to find change. I thank God for their courage.

Sincerely, written
Shelly

Unfortunately I feel the same way. Everytime we do something 'wrong' in the eyes of the middle east, the streets of Iran are flooded with protesters yelling 'Death to America', 'Death to American's', and burning of the American flag. Do I want to put the lives of our US Armed Forces in harms way for yet another Middle East country that truly doesn't appreaciate the blood we have split to help liberate their country in the name of democracy... No... Let's wait. Remember, the United States and it citizens had to suffer in order to achieve it's freedom. Pain let's you OWN your victories.

Jackie, you realize that the same government has been in place for almost 30 years, and that they have stayed in power by antagonizing the US. Mohammed represents a group of Iranians that wants to rejoin the rest of the world as a rational civilization. So don't be so judgmental and dismissive.

I support the people of Iran, but every time the united states get's involved in Islamic affairs it bites us in our ass.
I do respect your wanting new leadership a new voice for the world.
As an American I can appreciate that, because we voted someone in office that can do the same.

This sounds like a guy that was paid by CNN to say what the Americans wanted to hear. Very funny.

These students never burnt our flag. The same people who ar killing the students are the ones who burnt our flag. We can't punish the kids like Neda for the behavior of the ones whom u are complaining about. Mohaamed, u are in our rayers, we support u and hope the international community is hearing your voice.

For 30 years Iranians have been held hostage by violent extremists.
Now, there is an opportunity to foment democracy in the heart of islamic hatred, and Obama can barely speak.
Obama should resign. He is a bigger embarrassment than Nixon.
And almost a bigger embarrassment than Carter, the last democrat to get on his knees at the feet of Islam.
Impeach Obama.

Jackie Q, you don't get it , do you? The people who burn our flags ARE not the majority. What you see on TV is the minority terrorist supporters. Read what the guy said and I believe whole-heartedly that this is true! Government is different from its people.

"We are a peaceful nation. We don’t hate anybody. We want to be an active member of the international community. We don’t want to be isolated… We don’t deny the Holocaust. We do accept Israel’s rights. And actually, we want — we want severe reform on this structure. This structure is not going to be tolerated by the majority of Iranians. We need severe reform, as much as possible."

greatest sympathy to the families of every casualty.

this is a new generation, reason outweighs subordinance to traditionalism and fundamentalism. hopefully.

my thoughts are with iran.

Oh for God's sake, the young man speaking probably wasn't even born when the Ayatollah came to power, and he's certainly not part of the fundamentalist nuts burning flags of Western countires. This is a NEW generation speaking, one that repudiates kneejerk hatred of the West. Do you realize how revolutionary his statements about Israel are, for example? The West needs to do whatever it can to help the tremendous, courageous efforts of these people as they attempt to effect change in Iran.

[...] show today and had the following quote to say (among others). You can read the whole transcript HERE, including the part where he pleads for the US to get involved. Let me tell you something. For [...]

every country has there crazies, as do we friend. so try not to judge so quicly.

Where is Obama? What is he waiting for? He should try to intervene along with members of the United nations and the European Union. Now would be a good time if any to send in a covert team to arm the citizens and let them fight this ruthless regime. Tell our President to do more on this issue instead of playing golf.

JackieQ, just because we see regime-sponsored photos of Anti-American flag-burning rallies doesn't mean the majority of Iranians feel that way. You should know that. Did you know large groups of moderate Iranians held candlelight vigils for Americans after 9-11? As an American, I was long reading some of their anti-regime activist websites, before so much attention turned toward Iran after this election. Check out websites like Daneshjoo.org, that have long been the voice of more moderate, secular, western-like, Iranians.

Thank you, Mohammed, for your courage. This gives us great hope for the future of the Middle East. We think of you several times a day, and urge our leaders to support you. We Americans don't know what it is like for our streets to be turned into war zones.

Jackie ? Not all Iranians burned American flags, just like not all Americans voted for George Bush and torture. Open up your mind.

Your courage and spirit are admirable and we applaud you and othes in Iran like yourself.

It is time for the main countries to work together on these type of problems and join forces for the good of mankind. The US is not in any positon to go it alone anymore, especially now.

We feel for you but are restricted by too many things from charging into Iran's internal politics.

Iran needs prompt UN action, not just us alone. Where are the other super powers on this?

Let the past go. These students are asking for their freedom, peace and a place in the international community. They want what the rest of us want. We must support them. Loudly.

Can anyone tell me why the Arab countries in the middle east always seem to go silent when things are happening in their own region? Why dont they get involved? The Saudi's never seem to help, whats up with that?

the same people who are beating the students burnt your flag, these poeple are bunch of thugs paid by the government to act the way they do.

Mohammed: Americans, European Union, international community, this government is not definitely — is definitely not elected by the majority of Iranians. So it’s illegal. Do not recognize it. Stop trading with them. Impose much more sanctions against them. My message…to the international community, especially I’m addressing President Obama directly – how can a government that doesn’t recognize its people’s rights and represses them brutally and mercilessly have nuclear activities? This government is a huge threat to global peace. Will a wise man give a sharp dagger to an insane person? We need your help international community. Don’t leave us alone.

Chetry: Mohammed, what do you think the international community should do besides sanctions?

Mohammed: Actually, this regime is really dependent on importing gasoline. More than 85% of Iran’s gasoline is imported from foreign countries. I think international communities must sanction exporting gasoline to Iran and that might shut down the government.
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Mohammed makes a lot of sense. Sanctions including the importation of gasoline does not require troops. Of course, such sanctions would require the active participation of those countries that border Iran. That is the major sticking point.

Some of these comments are idiotic. Iran is a country made up of very educated peop-le with a small majority of fundamental lunatics who happen to be running the government so don't be so jusdgemental, short sighted and living in your small world when you make such ridiculous comment. Go out and travel the world so your eyes can open up to reality.

We should keep in mind that we, as consumers of the media, only get bits and pieces of what happens in Iran (or basically any other place we don't live in). We need to be careful about generalizing and making invalid assumptions based on limited information. Mohammed seems to be an intelligent and articulate individual, but he does not speak for the entire Iranian population or even the ones who want change. At the same time, it is folly to say that all Iranians hate the United States because a few were caught on camera burning our flag. How would we feel if others believe they know how all Americans are because they watch Jerry Springer?

The people of Iran are allies of the west & America! Millions of Iranians live in the US & are ever so proud to be Iranian – Americans The regime in Tehran does not represent the true voice of Iranians! We want peace, democracy & freedom in Iran! Gob bless America & those who live for freedom!

I would like to know if the regime change in Iraq gave hope to the Iranian people. If so, this could make us look differently at the Iraq war.

Burn your flags?? How many flags do you have? And WE the true Iranian people are a peaceful race unlike YOU.

Jackie-
what you are the last couple ofd weeks are real Iranians, the until now unheard masses, anything you see coming out of state run TV in the past is the the view of the oppressive anti West regime that the people are currently rebelling against.

They are pleading for our help!!!!!

Yeah, right, let's get into another Middle Eastern country, because it's people need our balls to overthrow their dictatorial leader! Where were they when our 52 hostages were taken? Where were they when we had Americans kidnapped in Lebanon and in other areas of the Middle East? Where were they when 9-11 happened? Where were they when we took out Sadaam Hussein? What will happen if we move in is that they will cheer us for one day, then start their idiotic Anti-American, America is Satan chants all over again. I say, let them rot in the stew they made for themselves.

We should all know by now that a government's actions do not necessarily represent the will of the people. Iranians are a very intellegent, civilized people with a wonderful culture that is tainted by their repressive antagoniztic government . We should support the pepole through the European Union and the UN.

Here is advice to our friends in Iran: Find out who is part of the Basij militia, go to their houses at midnight and beat THEM up. There are more of you than there are of them. You need to turn the tables on them and give them a lilttle taste of their own medicine. Ride around in Toyota trucks/small motorcycles with sticks and whack them on their legs/backs/heads. Take charge!

To Jackie Q:
Are you incapable of comprehending what you read? My brain hurts from your comment. Mohammed is asking that we DONT send gasoline to Iran. And he is trying to overthrow the regime that encourages US flag burning.

what a bunch of nonsense, this interview was a travesty, first, you don't know who this person is and who paid him to say what we want to hear.

We need to stay out and let them figure out what direction they want to take, CNN, please, don't assume that we are a bunch of hillbillies, some of us know what's going on.

PLEASE AMERICA AND OBAMA...DON'T INTERFERE!!! We do need help but the US is stuck in Iraq & Afganistan so CLEAN UP YOUR MESS FIRST! IRANIAN PEOPLE WILL FREE THEMSELVES!! Aram from Norway!

There is a better way to fight, and it doesn't involve acting like animals, and making chaos and having by-standers getting killed.

A government reflects its people, if Iranians really want change, they can do so by uniting and peacefully working together while following and respecting the laws of the nation.

Don't let your country turn into another Iraq or Somalia, civil war will not do any good and will make the situation worse.

–Woods.

WE ALL LOVE YOU ...PEOPLE OF iRAN..THE GREAT iRAN.

Wow – congratulations to Americans by showing that we're the "bigger person." Who cares that they burn our flag? Aren't we supposed to be better? Aren't we supposed to be America, the country that fights for the rights of all people? I guess when you get down to the populace, half of us are hateful, revenge-seekers and the other half believe in what America stands for. Sounds familiar – like maybe, half of them burn our flag and the other half have no problem with us?

Hey America, try opening your eyes for once and using your smarts – not ALL of the Iranians have a problem with us and the ones that don't deserve to be free, just like we deserve to be free. THAT is what it means to be an AMERICAN – not this petty, vindictive hate that fills our country all of the time these days.

Wow Jackie, way to generalize. because, you know... the whole population of Iran was burning American flags. thats like saying all Americans eat Burgers and hotdogs everyday, because thats what tv says we do!

the Iranian people need help, and the one time countries in Europe and the US should be helping a middle eastern country, we just sit by and watch. I'm not saying we should invade, not at all, but we need to get involved. because the government in power in Iran is Illegal, and should be treated as such.

This is one guy. I just don't know if he speaks for the entire group of protestors or if he is just relaying his opinion to the world. I want to believe that the people of Iran are not the American flag burning and "death to Americans" chanting people that we always see on TV but how can anyone be certain.

I think the protestors need to make more overtures to America and the American people. I believe the people and the govt. of American would support them if they really believed that this is what the Iranians want.

CNN sucks. How much did you pay this punk?

This country didn't care about the rigged elections of 2000 and 2004. Why should I give a crap about Iran?

Maybe President Obama and others should look at the statue of liberty pictures taken last month. Maybe then they will remember what this country stands for.

Liberty can come from one person, Gorbachev in Russia, Lec Weleasha in Poland, here we have thousands calling for liberty and change and we turn a deaf ear?

Do I want to send troops no, would it be easier to do nothing, yes but that is not what America is about. We are the ONLY country in the WORLD that has free speach. We should use that voice to lend support to those who wish the freedom to choose what governement they wish to have. We have been hearing about working together with other nations and defeat those who follow an extreme view of Islam. Well here is the handing curve ball, are we going to hammer at it or not even swing?

We as Americans must help! At the very least hold rallies in support of the people of Iran who want reform. This may give the courage and confidence to continue the fight, and stand tall for the rights of all the citizens.

How do we really, really know that Mohammad is a real student in Iran and not a made up person? Look up 'yellow journalism' and you'll understand my concern. It could be made up by ANYone.

Oh, if you check out Moussavi's Facebook, he's now trying to blame the West on the regime's censoring technology/ tactics.
We should drop a neutron and be done with it.

Seriously, what is with all you people saying "but in the past you have burned our flag"

Don't you realize that the reformers never did that. It was a big show put on by the regime as propaganda and only a small minority of hardliners participate. It is of course made to seem as if everyone in Iran agrees with the regime but obviously they do not. Just 8 days or so ago Achmadenijad said "Iran is the most stable country in the world." Does anyone really believe that? Of course they want everyone outside the country to think that they are all united under the Ayatollah. But that is simply not the case.

Now here we have someone, or rather, a whole huge group of people fighting for their freedom. Arguably the majority of the country. Agreeing with us that Isreal has rights, this regime should not have nuclear weapons, Iran should be more open and engaged with the world. How can we not help these people?

The world wants to help, but first, the people must make their full effort to overthrow this horrible government in Tehran. They rule with vile tactics. Like the Gestapo. They take people in the night, murder whole families of those that escape ect. Fear like that is not something we are used to in America. We will help when Obama's Administration gets their plan formalized. This time the world is watching. That is why the regime is using different tactics than they normally do. America will do her duty when the time comes. Watch and pray.

I just hope that CNN realizes that their conversation was recorded and that this poor student who made this call will probably suffer the consiquences for it.

The government is monitoring everything. I think that should have been included in the report. I was watching this morning and nothing was acknowledged to that effect.

Let the people know exactly how dangerous it is for those that are contacting the media by any means necessary.

Actually, the majority of Iranians in this present protest did not burn the US flag. They were too young at the time. I agree that there are still some who did burn American flags that are part of this protest. The majority of US flag burners are part of the Islamic Regime that these youngsters are fighting against. The Islamic Republic used the US and Isreal to propagandize and rewarded those who flag burned with positions of power or in some cases-gain the lives of their families. Yes I remember it too well, my entire family was killed by the Islamic Republic. The Iranian community on the whole is not against the US. There are too many Iranians who are Jewish, Christian, of any other denomination, or simply want to preserve the antiquity of the culture. There are too many Iranians who are Muslim but do not believe in the heresy of the the Islamic Republic's brand of Islam. Mohammed is correct, Iranians do not want the Islamic Republic's regime to be the example of Iran or the Iranians. You should not "buy" the propaganda from the Islamic Republic and remember from whence it comes. The Islamic Republic tortures their own people, and I do mean physical torture. Please only hold those who hate the US responsible for what they did back then and not those who didn't do anything wrong to this country. Iranians are not all crazy Ted Bundys, or Khomeinis.

The sad truth is the US government does not have any ability to get involved right now. We already have 2 wars, both in countries neighboring Iran and both bleeding our blood and treasure for years. We are involved with Pakistan, a failing nuclear state also on Iran's borders. We have an intense situation with N Korea. We are still in financial crisis and cleaning up the miscellaneous internal messes of two and a half decades of sloppy management and failed policies. What good would words do when we cannot support them with action? The American people are free and there are ways we can help with or without our government. If you care so much, put up!

Yeah but now they are asking for our help. Why dont we prove them wrong. Show them that they were burning the flag of a nation of good people who will do everything we can to bring the freedom and liberties we enjoy to all people of the world.

BeefMasterX, What exactly do you expect Obama to do? He has held his tongue when it came to the question of the elections. This situation has escalated to a cry against the Iranian Government on the whole.

Do you suggest we fly in a drop armed paratroopers? I would think if this is the scenario you prefer we would see a much greater death rate of the opposition. Plus, it would give the government the usual source of blaming the U.S. With the U.S. to hang for the revolution...you can bet they would stop tip toeing on the murder of their own people.

Do you suggest we go in like we did in Pakistan when Israel took action against them? Israel had its reasons....but we voiced our concern for both sides and stayed out of the way.

Do you suggest we go to another war? Right now many civilians are feeling the brunt of our presence in Iraq and Pakistan. This is not to say our support of both contingencies is not good....it's just that we are fighting religious extremists and their view is even the innocent should be scarified for their version of Ala's direction.

And finally, how can we jump into another confrontation when our own citizens are losing their jobs, homes, and hope?

If we are to go in to support the protestors on a more military or forceful basis....I once again suggest any action be coordinated through the UN or any other Democratic Alliance.

This is one brave man, and the Iranian people as a whole! More and more has mounted against this regime and it was only time before the Iranian people stood up and fought this tyranny. I hope these brave people overthrow the current tyrannical government and establish what this person described: An Iran that is a well respected and protected member of the international community. Death to the dictator!!!!

While I agree that sanctions might work, the majority of the worlds oil and gas come from the middle east and supporters of the Iranian gvt. There's nothing we can do about that.

I support the Iranian people in their efforts but I don't agree that the United States should interfere in any real way.

The US needs to stay out of this. It is an internal Iranian matter and needs to remain that way. The moment the US gets involved, other country's will get involved too and we could end up with the third world war with the middle east.

Iran needs to deal with this itself. You have the support of the American people, but the American gvt needs to stay out.

I agree with michaelk that Obama needs to try to intervene along with members of the United nations and the European Union. That is the key. No single Country can do this alone....We need to see that the Iranian people want change but not revolution.
Only the World Community ( US included) can come to the aid to allow the Iranian government to give their people a voice to be heard. If they do ...peace may be restored.. They need to LISTEN to their people and work with them, not againste them. The US cannot tell the Iranian people what needs to be done, As an active member of the international Community , we need to work together to create a peaceful vehicle for the Iranian people to be heard. The world is watching...

If Iran does not get any help from UN or US, this protest will be stopped and the U.S. has to deal with this government. So help Iranian and let them get the job done.

Hi ,
I am a Canadian-Iranian living in Toronto from 7years ago. I just want to say to the people who think that Iranian people are against US and they burnt the American flag, That these people who you see in Baseij are only thousands, brain washed people who live and getting paid by Iranian government and every time government want to show outside world, they will bring them with buses from different cities .
They are minority and less than 1% of the population.
Please do not mix these people with the Iranian. These are animals who will not have any place in the world If the government will change and they have to stay there and die or kill innocents people like NEDA.
I hope my country will be free on day and I hope that day will come soon. Please support our people for freedom.

I support a FREE Iran. The past is just that the past.
Throwing mud on each other will never solve any problems.
Many Cultures....One Race....HUMAN!

Mohammed you said, "I saw thousands of security officers that tried to break up the crowd. They used canisters and batons and water cannons against us. They attacked us. And we also in response attacked them. We attacked them by throwing stones. And we built trenches in the streets…"
Here in the USA after the cops attack us with water cannon and pepper spray if we then attack them with stones then they wills shoot us to death. So you see is not that much different.

Also you guys want the USA to intervene, yet when Israel attacks the Palestinians and kills them NOBODY gives a crap!!
The USA doesnt need to get involve in the middle east at all. We had enough problems thanks to Bush, Cheney and all those war Criminals GOP

There was a time when Iranians chanted "Death to America", then again it wasn't that long ago when we Americans were out for blood after being struck by an extremist minority and that anguish and fear mutated into hatred and distrust of the Muslim world.

Our current administration is wise to react with caution. Hawkish talk of war and "regime change" is exactly what has re-enforced the existence of this theocracy and authoritarian regimes like it.

My hope is that the Iranian Revolution of 2009 become more than broken dreams and broken promises that the previous revolution delivered. Good luck to the freedom fighters!

I believe the US government should help anyone big or small in their hope for freedom. I think the USA is bigger than to sit back and watch EVIL around the world. I think it's time we choose side here.

True Iranians did take American Hostages and burn our flag in their streets at one time. Like 20 or 30 years ago. Hello those people are now in their 50 and 60's, the new generation does not want all the negativity their elders did. I believe the younger generation is better informed and educated about their freedom.

I have watched the united states of americia get involved in two wars
since the 2001 attack on the twin towers in New York City. I really think
this situation in Iran needs to be looked at under a microscope before a decision can be made on it. My advise to the United states of America is to use extreme caution before committing your country to
any sanctions or military help. It just might explode into another war
Americia cannot afford. Good LUCK on this one

i think i like obama not hasting to jump in .first his speeches,personna and a lot more is what is bringing about change everywhere on this universe of us.either you are for him in most of his proposals or you pay the price .this should be a lesson to all,esp. all politicians running for a kind of position.unfortunately this th new order of the system.i think it is about time. i promise you watch when it is the time to act about iran he will come with the best resolution.

According to my information there were no protests for them today because they were in mourning for those that have lost their lives. there were 10 more killed.

I hope that the Iranian public understand that we are with them and offer our solidarity. Its unfortunate that we are not stepping in as a nation. I understand the nuclear situation and the chaos that will be caused to the global economy, but that does not mean that we should not step in as it could be far worse.

Now that we are considered the "meddeling west", would that not ally the Iranian regime further with North Korea. As it is the two goverments are on friendly terms.

Didn't We burn our own flag at some point? I think the United States as a whole would like to help, But if we steped in what would stop the people in power right now in Iran, from saying things like the reformest leaders are working with the Americans arrest them all. The power to change comes from people. I think the best thing I can say is WE are WATCHING Things are and will being set in motion the question is Will you the Iranian people follow it to the end.

jackieQ get out of your shell. With your narrow mindedness maybe the world thinks all Americans are like Rush. My support to all the new generation of Iranians wanting the same freedom we have. Yes Obama you have to be more supportive by action and not only words.

ON 2 SIDES HERE TOU HAVE AN IRANIAN GOVERNMENT THAT ONLY SHOWS ITS SUPPORTERS EVERYTIME THEY DRUM UP SOME KIND OF REHTORIC ABOUT SOMETHING AND NEVER SHOW THE PROTESTERS WHILE THE MEDIA ALSO DOES THIS TOO, ALWAYS SHOWING THE HATRED OF THE IRANIAN GOVERNMENT TOWARDS THE U.S., AND REPORTING IT, KIND OF LIKE WHAT RUSSIA DOES, SADAAM HUSSEIN DID IT WHILE HE WAS IN POWER, AS IF IT WAS THE ONLY ONE THING GOING ON IN IRAN. IT SEEMS TO ME WITH A MEDIA WITH SO MUCH INFLUENCE IN THE WORLD (BADGER,PROVOKE,INTIMIDATE,ENUENDO,REPETITIVE ANGERING QUESTIONS, SUGGESTIVE ACTION, AGITATE,TWIST,RUMOR,SPECULATE,ASSUME,ETC....) THEY DON'T ADVOCATE AN OVERTHROW OF THAT COUNTRY , THEY DO ALL THAT STUFF HERE IN THIS COUNTRY!!!!!!!!!!!

Why United Nation is so quite when the cry of the Iranian people echoes the world? If you look at the way people are ruled in Iran, one can easily understand that the motive behind it is nothing other than power and enjoy the comfort of life. Supreme leader himself was a revolutionary and came to power through revolution. Once he got the power and comfort of a divine figure it is hard for him to give it up. Mohammad Ahamadinijad is a pawn in his hand. It is important for the United Nation to hold the torch of freedom it stands for.

"We are the ONLY country in the WORLD that has free speach. "

Bob Kole YOu are soooo wrong. Travel to Europe. Spain, Italy, France, UK etc
Al those nations also do have free speech. In fact the have more freedoms than us in the USA.

Beautiful slime women in Spain, Germany and France even go topless and nude at the beach without getting a ticket!! How is that for Freedom!

Hey Jackie Q; You still don't get, do you? Flag burning is What Basij and their relatives used to do (in civilian clothes) and they are now killing people! They are minority with power and guns and the rest of Iran are hostages of the regime. Please, open your eyes..and others...

I have listened to many interviews of Iranian Americans from academia and other community leaders who are saying that BHO is handling this situation correctly. He is not giving the Leadership in Iran the pretext that it is America causing the turmoil in Iran. We should certainly do everything we can to support the opposition but we should be careful not to react emotionally resulting in more harm than good.

These people are different than their crazy government...

They are speaking about the "Audacity of Hope"!

The U.S. should support democracy for these people who are crying for liberty...

Plus, this crazy government is like a bad apple....It's infecting every country around it and is destructive to world peace.....

Obama, remember change?

SHelly "Iran in their fight for change:
How can I sit here in front of my television or computer screen and enjoy my freedo"
Seriously can you say the same when Israel invades the Palestinians and kills 100's of innocents children?
Or now you feel touch?

Next time Israel kills innocent Palestinians I hope that you too speak up.

JackieQ- Brea -Ca,
You will never get it.
Thank god most of people in the world do not think like you.
But u have the right to exist !!

We can't judge the Iranian people for the past protests and American flag burning, the government had alot to do with staging that, we must see the Iranian as a whole.

How easily we forget when Iran held our hostages for over a year!! When they burned our flags and kept saying DEATH TO AMERICA!!

They are risking their lives to protest against filled out ballots that exceed the population of the towns? Hmmm... Maybe they can come to America after they are done there, to show us what we should do since many of our cities produced more votes than our population?

I have been supporting Obama's muted approach so far, but this regime is weakened now.... there is no way it wil give up its nuclear ambitions now. The leaders will see becoming a nuclear power as the only way to save their skins. We should try to help the Iranians change their regime.... the problem is how.
Unfortunately, the effectiveness of sanctions will depend more upon our ability to convince the Europeans and Russians (good luck with that one) to go along than anything we can do directly. Still, Obama should use some of his prestige to give it a shot.

It's quite clear that the desire for freedom and individual rights(including for women) are universal. If we continue to stand up for those rights as we have in the past it will give the people of these radical and repressive governments the strength to fight for themselves. Would anyone concede that maybe the changes toward these universal rights in Iraq and Afghanistan that our country has fought for could be having a positive effect on the Middle East? Lebanon elected a pro-west government over hezbollah and now we are seeing the Iranian people stand up out of the want to peacefully join the rest of the modern world! Maybe Bush isn't such a war mongerer afterall and he realized we would have to make sacrifices in order to spark a change in the Middle East.

BeefMasterX- SHUT UP!! You sound like the Ayatollah!

I am US citizen, but I came from former Soviet Union and I believe and understand Mohammed and his fellows. First of all our president has to speak up clear that US on the side of freedom fighters finally. Second we have to help not using any violence the way Mohammed said or any other way. America always says it supports freedom so do it otherwise we all liars!

We don't need to invade Iran. We need to sit still on this and let God (see Exodus 14:14). I doubt this man is illigitimate in his message..he is speaking for the youth there..keep in mind that is over 60-70% of the population. In defense of his plean, Consider the changed ideology of the US or Euorpean youth...it's as though the 'worldly' spirits are demanding justice in the world..and rightly they are. Justice does not have to violent though....remember the days of old when God showed his mighty hand....I say it's best to have the millions walk , peacefully, in song and praise to God seven times around the capital of Iran and watch God's mighty works happen.

You are ignorant to think this man was paid by CNN, I am an Iranian American and this is how most Iranians think, for once think outside of your box and try to understand what these people are going through. Of couse there are extreamists in every country even America, do not judge an entire nation by one persons actions. I believe that USA should not specifically intervene but Obama needs to say that we support the Iranians right to freedom. Ronald Regan did not say to Gorbecev- keep this wall up. He said-" Tear down this wall." Why is Obama so scared to say we support the Iranian peoples right to freedom? WHY???? Iranian people you are not alone. Many support you. Keep fighting for your right to freedom.
"Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves."
Abraham Lincoln-

Give the flag burning a rest, focus on the real issue, human rights. Right or wrong people burn flags in the US every day when they need attention

I think we should be stopping the flow of gasoline to help prevent a nuclear armed Iran (with it's current leaders).

However, this fight is for Iranians, by Iranians. We tried to interfear before, and the result is the current regime. Leave Iran alone. If they do succed, and overthrow their dictatorship, then we should help the new government in ANY WAY POSSIBLE.

I am all for freedom for IRAN, and would be willing to fight with them for there freedom, but freedom cannot be imposed !

JackieQ- Brea -Ca, monica0220, you two are the essence of the 'CNN viewer' what ever is put on the TV, you believe. Open your eyes, dont be so ignorant and think and research. The people on TV burning flags are uneducated villagers the same people who are pro-ahmadinejad!! These people who are protesting now are the people who have been quite due to oppression of the government, but now they are all united and not scared to express thier dislike for this regime! You understand that now, ignoramas?

The average American doesn't understand the totalitarian regimes.
Obama is in that age group. My parents escaped from a totalitarian regime. Those stories told by the people that were undr Stalin and Hitler are all forgotten.
American people need to understand that those people that burn American flags in other countries are the government sponsored people and are in the monority just like the people that burn American flags are in the minority here.
The Islam religion has to go. Just imagine the outcry if the pope ordered mass murders of all non Catholics or the head of the Episcopalian church ordered the killings of all protesants.
What kind of religion orders tyranny against their own people.
We here in America have to wake up, before Islam destroys us.
We have to educate our young the truth and the dangers out there.
The press has to tell the truth and explain what is right and wrong when they see tyranny in Russia, China, North Korea, Cuba, Venesuala, Pakistan and Iran.
Pres Bush saw this but was too stupid to get his point across to the
young people of America. Obama needs to that. People of America can't have their blinders on they need to help those people that want freedom. .

I am an Iranian American so I see both sides. My American side cringes when I see American flags burned or I recall hostages taken at the start of the Islamic revolution. My Iranian side weeps when I see young people bludgeoned on the streets. Both sides hope we can rise above our baser instinct, educate ourselves and act with intelligence and compassion toward each other.

Americans, put aside your rhetoric and grudges. Understand that Iranians love our country. The two cultures are aligned in more ways than you can imagine. Iranians are a friendly, generous people who have been grossly suppressed and misrepresented by their illegitimate government. We must stand with the reform movement if we hope it turns into a true revolution. The enemy is not Islam. It is those who have usurped Islam for their own benefit.

Iran and America once enjoyed a strong, constructive partnership on the world stage. We can get there again.

This is not our problem and we should stay out of it. If they truly want to change their government then do it and stop asking for other countries to do it for you. Step up and take control of your situation for once and stop relying on others.

Iran was one of the most progressive nations in the middle east until 30-40 years ago. There also was the whole Iran-Iraq war. I won't pretend to know the history...but there is definately "history" that put the current leaders into power. The new generation has decided enough is enough. Corruption and abuse of power.

If (some of) you cowboys think that the US should step in, you are F'n crazy. In case you weren't aware already, we're stretched between Africa, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Now Pakistan and N.Korea are becoming hot zones and the "drug war" along the US/Mexico border is also a poential flash zone.

In order to not further bastardize the US in the middle east, this uprising needs to succeed on its on, with little to zero US intervention. In case you aren't paying attention, one wrong move...one ichy trigger finger and we'll be at war with North Korea. Team America, world police we are not folks.

The problem with more sanctions is that the people who have felt their burden and will feel more of are ordinary Iranians who are protesting in the streets.

How is it still possible in this day and age that people think because they see one person burning a flag on TV that means the *entire country* feels the same way?

Wake up.

It is wrong to base our interpretation of events in Iran based on the opinions of one person. Americans would like to see a pro-American, pro-Israel, secular revolution in Iran but I think this is wishful thinking.

Jackie,

Time and again people of Iran have shown to be the most pro-US population in Middle East (after Israel). The flag burning is a propaganda of the Iranian government not a real reaction of the Iranian people.

We have responsibilities to help these people in Iran. What happened to our freedom loving people? Are we afraid or do we put our self interest in front of freedom? This is the best opportunity we have to free Iran from these fanatics. Where are you Mr. Bush? Mr. OBAMA does not want to do anything, because he wants to deal with these killers. Please help them any way you can to get their freedoms. They are not our enemies, they are our friends. Believe me I KNOW.

We should not do anything..........These same people cry "Death to America".............Now they love us when they need it!

Just let them be themselves!.................NOT (1) US soldier should be put a risk, NOR $1 be spent for these counties.

I remember when Jimmy Carter force the Shah of Iran out of office. I also remember the taking of American Hostages by the people of Iran because we tried to help. The Hostages were held for almost two years. The US always get slap arround when ever we attempt to do something. And, we always get blame for the World problems. We went in Iraq and Affganastan with the American People fitting the bill for that endeavor. And we are still in those countries. Regardless of popular belief, the US is not responsible and should not be held accountable for the Fate of the World.
As a Natural Born Tax paying American Citizen, I vote that we stay out of this. This is not our Fight.

Right now what can we do for the people in Iran?Any intervention would most likely lead to another war that we do not need. We can not be everywhere at once. In my own opinion, the people already see Moussavi as their leader. The smartest thing would be for Achmedinajad to accept defeat before sh#$ really hits the fan. In reality, he became a dictator. Why hold elections and allow candidates to run against each other if the peoples votes are going to be worth nothing? In a heart beat,
the protests could/will turn into violent riots and more people will die like Neda. Stop blaming America for what is going on and try to fix this problem as a nation not as a mob.

Nothing has change in washington,and it wont change soon...This remainds me when bush defended the saudis,but not irak .No wonder why they want us out . We Americans always talk about spredding democracy aroud the world and yeat,once again we failing to support it...And all the people,the ones who are trapped in the past like some of the fellows here, is not going to help.We are all in the same team,don't forget it. SEMPER FI

Forget support. Send nukes!

The United States needs to stay out of the Iranian elections. Look at the 2000 Bush vs. Gore election. We Americans didn’t take to the streets. I’m getting tired of watching the Iranian protests on all our news channels. Enough is enough.

Carl

My father came to America from Iran in 1974, before the revolution. These protests are the first major sign of change for Iranian people since the first revolution. We can only hope these protests will change the current regime into a more American friendly country-for my family's sake and the millions of Persians who are proud of their heritage and desperate for their liberty in Iran.

when ever they want to have an anti US rally. they call out anyone who will participate in Tehran (8 mill people). they bus people in from out of town. They even force military people and police to dress in regular clothing and show up. they force civil servants and even highschool and middle school students to show up. they almost forced me to go when i was in 8th grade. fortunetly my school was a private school led by reformists and they managed to get us out of it.

so they anti-US rallies are not exatly an acurate representation of iran.

my concern is that Mohammed's request about others getting
involved would not represent what most protestors want especially the leadership that is depending on some very conservative clerics that are starting to turn on the regime. i am not really sure what the US could do anyway. its not like anybody in they iranian gov listens to US.

I agree with Mohammed again. The international community should not recognize the Islamic Republic as the true governmental entity for all Iranians. They do not represent Iranians. He has said what I said 30 years ago. The International community- because of their recognition of the Islamic Republic as the government of Iran- is therefore also partly responsible for the mass murders of thousands of Iranians during the last 3 decades. Thus intervention by the international community should occur. This youngster gave one idea to us already and yes he is apparently under orders. If you listen to him, Mohammed clearly demonstrates that there is some organized overthrow in the process. I do agree to place US response on the side of caution. We should look to ourselves in our own beliefs first. I will only back those in Iran who want to separate church and state for one. I will only back those who will place murderers and rapists in prison and not give them luxury houses and cars.

America cannot help. What can we possibly do? As much as Iran is a rogue country, it is also a sovereign country with rights. If we did help, how? Militarily, Diplomatically, Sanctions? None, in my opinion would work. The root cause of why nothing would work is Religion. To many in Iran believe there religion directs them to hate and kill American's.

We need to walk very carefully around this Iranian episode because if we get to involved in it, essentially we own it. As it is right now with Iraq, Afghanistan and North Korea we have our hands full. Like our nation and others have done after us, the Iranians need to rise up against their repressive regimes and fight for their freedom. Its a fight they have to take. We will provide you with moral support but we can't fight this fight for you.

If you're going to hate entire countries that burn US flags, wouldn't that have to include the US? People burn flags here, people here hate our government. It's ignorant to say that a minority of people who hate us should keep us from protecting millions of others who do not from the very violence we disdain.

As an Army Mom whose only child proudly wears the Army uniform, I beg the American "leaders" not to expend our weary troops further. Sanctions – yes; military manpower – no.

There is only so much and so many tours in a combat zone our kids can take. Listening to my son the stories he tells about what truly goes on behind the scenes is deplorable.

What a great country we have, and yes, it is our responsibility to help those less fortunate. However, our troops need to rest!!!

If Americans want to end a religious theocracy....how about they tell their leaders to put PRESSURE on Saudi Arabia????? This stuff is so biased its not even funny. Yea, lets put pressure on the country that we have no interests in while we ignore the regime that feed us the black stuff. Put pressure on saudi arabia. Stop selling them weapons and tell them to open up their corrupt system. Hypocrisy has no limits. geez.

Commenters like Jackie Q are the reason why the majority of the U.S. 'hates' other countries. The only people who burn U.S. flags are supporters of the current regime, not the protesters you see in the streets. Learn before you act like a keyboard warrior. Keep Tweeting about your latest shopping spree, Jackie.

Iranian people mourned with you after 9/11 and got arrested for it in Tehran. Iranians are peaceful people. We are not in war with anybody. It is a minority of religous fundamentalists who burn your flag, people who have no support from the Iranian nation.

We need world support, to have freedom and get rid of this dangerous regime. Islamic republic is a danger to Iran and the world.

Well said Mohammad.
We Iranian-Americans are with you and stand behind you in your struggle for democracy and freedom. I agree with you that the international community, if they are serious about the war on terror, has to support you by economic means to bring down this government. Stop sending gasoline to Iran. Stop commerce, don't recognize this government of thugs and Basijis and this unpopular regime will collapse. This is the time to put action into words Mr. President Obama. This is the real test if you want to bring about change in the Middle East. Mr. President, Be under no illusion that you can deal with this brutal regime in Iran. They will pursue nuclear bomb, they will continue to support the terrorism and they will continue to repress Iranian people. Iranians have opened a new front on the War on Terror, support them.

I really feel for the Iranian people and I pray for them. I met a recent iranian immigrant a coupe months ago and she said most iranians hate Armadinigad. What are our options? Go into Iran like we did with Iraq; or place an embargo on their oil and other goods as Mohammad suggests. Since I do not think we can afford another war, I think the later would be our only choice and the rest of our allies and the west needs to help.

GW Bush called Iran, Iraq and North Korea the axis of evil. He was lambasted by the media, Dems and liberals in this country and abroad. Saddam was not the nicest of guys, wheather or not he had WMD. Now we have N. Korea with missiles aimed at Hawaii, and an oppressive regime in Iran stifling any dissent amonst it's people. Are any of the Dems / liberals willing to admit that GW was right on at least this one item? I know he was wrong on many others.

STUPID AMERICAN – realize not every person you saw on tv representing "iran" is the same people you see revolting.

Just like the world saw in Novemeber, a different America. WE were not the ones standing behind Bush, no more are THEY the ones standing behind Ahmadinejad.

WAKE UP STUPID ONES

While we may only get bits and pieces of news from people on the street in Iran...cnn and the international media should have gotten their courage up and gotten out on the streets to record this historic change...what we are not seeing is worse that what we are seeing.

International sanctions? YES International intervention? YES

The people of Iran deserve freedom. Freedom's we all take for granted in the west. These demonstrations are more than protesting Irregularities on voting. Its about liberty. This may be a prelude to more middle-eastern countries demanding more from their regimes.

This message is for Monica and Jackie. It is uneducated people like you who know nothing about suppression. It is typical people like you who make the Americans look dumb and spoiled. Those who are asking for help never burned your flag but it is not surprising that you must base your opinion on what the American media has displayed to you. Those who are protesting want freedom and peace but unfortunately people like you are only exposed to stereotypes and people like you fail to take other perspectives into consideration. And I suppose it is ok to risk the lives of your military members when they try to invade a country that isn't theirs? What about the hundreds of innocent lives being taken by the same military forces in Iraq? Perhaps, we can let that one slide I guess. I for one still cannot figure out why the American troops are fighting in Iraq and I still cannot figure out why they are being supported. Before you sign yourself up to be the first to respond to someone's plea, do some research, read some books and then include your share of thoughts. How sad is it to be deprived of knowledge about one's global community? Truly devastating.

If you want world peace and unity then you must support the voices of freedom and democracy. Obama has missed the opportunity. When people anywhere in the world are benied freedom and basic human rights we must all stand up and raise our voices.

Iranians worldwide, my thoughts and hopes are with you! I admire your courage and strength and solidarity facing this hardline regime, especially young students and women. You are so brave, my heart goes out to you! I will ask my government to help you any way they can. You have made so many sacrifices already, but stand strong and you will win. There is no other way out but to win. Don't back down! Never give up!! As Churchill said. We are with you. We are one. May God give you strength and purpose. You will not fail. You will win. The time is right.

The UN should do somthing, people are dying in Iran for wanting democracy. The UN was made to keep the peace and people are dying for wanting peace and reform in Iran. People protesting outside of Iran should call for UN itervention to at least protect the protesters in Iran

If we really care about the protesters and their lives we should intervene. The problem is that it is not them against the Mullahs alone, the Pasdaram military branch has growing influence, and is deeply tied to the Ahadinejad regime. Obama is right in thinking that an internally led change in government would be more effective than having troops installing a government (in the case of Iraq it is a corrupt government that does not have the will or interest of the people). However for an internal revolution, you need to win the support of the Iranian military. In Iran, the power structure with the military and its growing influence makes this more unlikely, and so simply encouraging them to protest is more likely to encourage young innocents to die. We should either directly engage Iran with military force, or remain silent and continue seeking diplomatic ties with the current regime. Obama's strategy of encouraging the protestors loses on both fronts and could be misleading to the protestors that are putting their lives at risk.

QUESTION: If the majority of Iranians LIKE the current regime, and reality is that the students and revolters are really the minority, shouldnt we decide the majority knows whats best for the minority?

I mean, here in America that's the way it's been set up for the Gay Marriage debate – "leave it to the states" meaning, if the majority says no, so sorry Gays – you have no rights!

America = do as i say, not as i do

Iranian, or any other humans on this planet have the right to leave in freedom. Real Iranian people are peaceful and do not hate anyone.
Thoes people the burn flags are brain washed extremists that do not represent any iranian acts. They are beaten 7 year old girls on the street and killing hundereds of people without you knowing. I have confirmed reports from Iran that the killing is still continued without any regrets by the Evil goverment. The goverment is curropt and has to be stopped by any country that can help. Sanctions will not stop this goverment. Please, Mr. Obama and other authorities of the World, help Iran people to be heared ASAP. Their stand against this evil goverment will not last and then it will be too late.
I wish that I could do more beside writing...

The middle middle eastern countries in general hate Americans and their Govermnent and they have the right to some extent. We messed starting from right after WWII by playing games and manipulating their govermnets. We made things even worst by electing Bush twice and invading IRAQ. It's time for the U.S. to butt out and pull out of the middle east all together.
The Iranian people must unit and fight their own battle. We can help by broadcasting to the world the turmoil that is going on in Iran, and hopefully the other Islamic neighboring countries will decide to help.

This puts the U.S. in a tough position. We would be more than happy to enlighten Iran with our democratic processes, but the fact of the matter is that elections were held and didn't go the way of a decent chunk of it's people. Revolutions have been started for a variety of reasons, and no country ever got aid in the very beginning of the revolution/reform movement. Even the U.S didn't get official aid in the American Revolution until 3 years after it started. And that was because our initial leaders requested aid from the leaders of France and Spain, person to person...which by the way was much harder 210 year ago.

The democratic world feels for Iran, but like everything else, if reform is to take place, it must start from within. Rock throwing never leads to anything productive, and makes an amateur statement. If reform is to take place, and I think the government of Iran may be listening, there must be strategy and exact goals. From a worldly perspective, no one knows exactly what the people of Iran want, seems like some people are just pissed off the elections didn't go the way they wanted, and there are some vague reformist ideals floating around.

I sorta remember y'all chanting "Down With America"...maybe France can help you.

As stated by other nations after 9-11 & something I heard this weekend:

"Today, we are All Iranian".

Americans are behind you and your rights. Your struggle remains in my prayers.

Just read another article on propaganda. Now Motakki accuses Britain and US as interfering in their government. Such is the way of propaganda. Hey, Motakki, what's wrong-can't handle the fact that Iranians have minds of their own?

Bush and you right-wing skunks are no better than the leader of Iran. Bush cheated and rigged 2 elections, in 2000 and 2004. Where was your outrage then? Scum!!

Yes, Iran needs to take care of this itself.
But when the government brings in the BASIJ militia which consists of out of country troops from Lebonan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and any place they can hire them, these troops do not CARE about Iranians and will shoot & kill them DEAD!
Iranian riot police are not and will not kill their fellow Iranians.
The BASIJ militia must be stopped and thrown out of the country or KILLED DEAD!

We tend to wish the worst to other countries becuase we dont feel the pain.

We had issue with George Bush going to Iraq, there were demonstration in major cities of the world. People did not burn things and obeyed the law while protesting.

George Bush did not win the 2002 election, I didn't see people on the street buring thiings. It was the supreme court that ordered recounting stopped in 2002 giving Bush the win. WIth the majority on the supreme backing Geroge Bush

Has anyone considered that the election could have been right, it's democratic system not majority carries the vote. Why will the west encourage the loosing side to demonstrate and disobey the law. Irrepective of how we dislike the current government in Iran, we should not encourage the side that lost an election to turn to violence.

When elections are lost and the loosing side feels there rigging with the counting of the votes, they should follow the civilized due process not riot on the street.

when we point one finger at some, 3 fingers are pointing at us..

When Leadership finally fails they victimize the ppl!! but is it time for their Shock & Awe!

To Nikita Kaim, please don't use big words you don't understand. it might actually hurt your little brain!

Enough already! Why does the USA need to intervene? We have our own problems with which to deal and no extra money to send to Iran. Hey, CNN! Iran did not cover our revolution, why should we continue to cover their's? Enough!

No, Obama does NOT need to intervene, and he shouldn't. If anyone should, its the UN. Stay out of it.

Freedom gained by other people interfering has no meaning at all. The Iranians must do this themselves.

Those that are shown on TV chanting death to America or UK or even burning american flags are no different from the religious leader or Ahmadi-Nejad who are torturing and killing their own people in Iran. They have been brain washed by lies and bribes but they are only fraction of ppl and mainly uneducated but they are not voice of the entire nation. I will fight for freedom of Iran and I will not stand out of the way but do anything I can in my power to contribute to freedom of not only Iranians but humanity across the globe. Our freedom is a big step in freedom of all women, men and children who are being suppressed by dictatorship.

This should be their fight – not ours. If there is a victory, it will be that of the Iranian people. Every time we stick our nose into the affairs of the Middle East, no matter how sincere our efforts, we end up in another war or confrontation and more lives are shed needlessly. The Iranian people are speaking up, as they should.

And by the way, it WAS many of those same students who burned American flags. Don't let them fool us into thinking they were innocent bystanders. Unfortunately, they can't be trusted not to turn on us again.
Obama is not the dummy that Bush was. That's why we elected him. To say "impeach him" is ludicrous and probably written by some militiaman who is still angry that he won.

I wish America rose up after the facist Bush regime stole the elections in 2000 and 2004

The Iranians have more balls then most Americans, including me

1.) Remember the chants "Down with America!"?
2.) Remember the burning American flags in your streets?
3.) Where were you when we could have used your help in Iraq?
4.) You really feel the UN will help you? Get real, the UN is USELESS
5.) Obama and the American liberals can solve this through 'diplomacy' and singing Kumbaya.

Good luck....maybe France can help?

This is a reason why George Bush sent forces into Iraq...oppression of the people. Believing in freedom and democracy the US invaded Iraq and took down the regime. And then our own country and media used it against him. I dont think Obama will be that dumb...Too much to lose.

[...] For safety reasons, CNN can only identify the student by his first name, Mohammed. He’s been a part of the protests and a target of the violence there. Below is an edited transcript of the interview.  Source Article [...]

We didn't start the fire
But when we are gone
Will it still burn on, and on, and on, and on...

-Billy Joel

Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is also a state of mind. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people.

-Jawaharlal Nehru

I agree with this young Iran protester. He is NOT asking for armed intervention from the world. He IS asking for sanctions.
The world can easily cut off the import if gasoline to Iran, and this would have a powerful effect in bringing the state to a realization of what is really happening.
Next, this young mans statements about Israel are amazing. The world needs to support this event. But not by barn stroming or sending in troops.
Obama is wise to hold off and not go shooting from the hip. The prior admin was great at being "ready, fire, aim" and making a mess of things. It is better to garner world support. going it along is what led to the mess in Iraq.
Last, but not least, shooting off the missive that "They burned our flags and shouted death to Americans" is just plain dumb. That was in the prior revolution, when the Shah was ousted. I remember it well. It was 35 and 38 years ago!! Those people are the ones in power now that this young man is protesting against.
My prayers and thoughts go out to each of them, We worship the same God, no matter our religion. We desire the same freedoms no matter our nationality or culture, we are all of the same race. We are all Iran.

C'mon Americans BY The Corporate Media....Why don't you support the overthrow of the SAUDI FASCIST STATE?????

Becomes I believe in freedom unless it costs me money or I am making money exploiting people.

America has no moral standing to say anything.

Do it on your own Iranian students. I'm with you. You do not need the bars and stripes.

Ahmadineajad must give way, he is a devil incarnate. He is another Saddam in the making. He has made inflamatory remarks about the people of God {Israel} and anybody who touches Israel is putting hands in the eyes of God. That man must be toppled at all cost, the whole world should come together to bring him down, otherwise the world will live to regret the evil he is planning in conjunction with north korea against the entire world. He was not elected but he used the power of state to rigged himself in, in order to carry out his evil act against the State of Israel and the entire world. America should do something about this Evil Fly that want recognition. Check out his nuclear activities. I know for sure, he will be H-A-N-G-E-D like Saddam. His end is near. Those who plot against Israel, never live to carry out their plan but ended up HANGED like Haman in the Book of Esther. Let Ahmadinajad read this Holy Book and see what happened to Hamman and it will surely happened to Ahmadinajad

C’mon Americans....Stop BuYing The Corporate Media….Why don’t you support the overthrow of the SAUDI FASCIST STATE?????

Because I believe in freedom unless it costs me money or I am making money exploiting people.

America has no moral standing to say anything.

Do it on your own Iranian students. I’m with you. You do not need the bars and stripes.

To all of you would-be champions of 'Iranian Rights':

Tell me exactly what we should do. If you say "Speak out in support of the Iranians", well, that's not really helping them is it? That's just words, and what's more, they're words the regime there will almost certainly use to exploit Iranian nationalist sentiments against the protesters.

If you say 'Help them', tell me, how would we do that? Would we send in troops? WHAT troops? Would you go to Iran and fight and die for these people? No, I didn't think so.

We've been through this dance before. In 1956 we spoke out in support of Hungarian dissidents. Encouraged they rose up and... were brutally crushed by the Soviets while we did nothing. In 1991 we encouraged the Iraqi Shiites to rise up and overthrow Saddam Hussein, which they promptly did. The result? Tens of thousands of dead Shiites, and no regime change. Words mean nothing, but they can make it harder for the protesters by allowing the regime to paint them as tools of the American Great Satan and enemies of God. The Iranians are a proud people who can and should determine their own destiny with no interference from us. Do we support what they fight for? Yes. Will we fight their fight for them? No, and neither do they want us to.

the people that burnt ur flag were the ones sitting with khameni and sayin down with U.K. v r on da streets trying to get them of their high horses

It is a hard position we have been put in. It is easy to understand why we would not want to get involved. We have already lost so many of our own troops because of what is going on over in Iraq. This is not our fight. This is something that should really be worked out within their own country, with their own people. But, in the same respect, they are asking for our help. Being a nation who, for the most part, try to take care of their own and also help others around us, we are in the middle of a situation that, by the Grace of God, should be able to be settled without the aid of the US. We don't have any control over what our President will decide to do. But we still do have our own rights. So, until our government can figure out what needs to be done, since none of us are making the decision, the one thing we could all do for those that want our help, is to pray. If we can't help them, maybe God can.

I'm a Chinese American and a born-again christian living in US. I fully support Mohammed and his fellow Iranians to pursue peace and freedom, just like the Chinese students in Tiannman Square 20 years ago. Even though we have different religious belief and nationaility, in this sense we are one people.

Furthermore, I want to express my sincere admiration for them (especially the brave women). I pray to God everyday for them to succeed and ask God to give them safety. Remember, you have already won the battle by proving to the world that you think totally differently from the dictators in your government.

I support Iranian women. Keeping going further....

To Americans: Did you know that Iranian women have WAY more liberty than SAUDI WOMEN?????

Keep driving that SUV rick smith.

Idiots

People of Iran, continue what you can do for your country, people may die but that is just one of your sacrifices for the freedom of your children's and children. The change should be done within you, and you will realize you will be more powerful if you emerge victorious on this battle. Do not leave your freedom on the hands of haters. Once the person hates he is not worthy to be in the kingdom of God. This basic rule is in every relegion and buried deep in our pure soul(believers or non believers). I dont believe your supreme leader specially when stated that demonstrator causing the violence will have severe punishment, well if he is for the people of IRAN, he will realize that 7 students got killed by the police. I ask him, who's causing violence here? Yeah IRAN should change the government, This people love to hate. How can we be acceptable for Universal community if we ourselves can't get along together on the same planet what more if have another visitor. Human being is still destructive species, we should change this attitude and become more mature in our ways. We dont have much time.

I feel for Mohammed and all the protesters and those that agree but can't protest for whatever reason. The ones on TV we saw burning the US flag and such could have been the ones on the other side don't forget. It's like here in the US where we have all had enough of the same government and that is why Obama was elected by a huge landslide. Thank God for that or McCain would be bombing Iran right now. And who knows what Palin would be doing.

We have to help these people. I think sanctions by the entire world are a great start. Obviously power, greed, and oppression are what the current regime is all about. Take it from them and they are nothing.
Anything to bring the current regime down to it's knees. How can anyone kill or hurt another? Shooting Neda down like that? How can that be done by a human being?

Keep reporting Iran and make sure we all stay informed CNN.....

Dino, First of all CNN is great. They are showing that they care about what is happening to people in other parts of the world. People in Iran need to show the world what kind of animals they are dealing with. Also the fact that you are reading this blog and leaving a message shows that you actually do give a crap about Iran. To give you and others who pretend that what's happening in Iran does not affect them I say this: The Islamic Republic is the hornets nest of all the terrorism in the world and Iranian people will bring down this regime and will bring peace and prosperity for themselves and other parts of the world with or without the help of international community.

Nikita, I want to let you know that this is not about Mousavi and what he says anymore. People in Iran were just using him as an excuse to revolt against this regime. They are passed Mousavi and you will see this in the near future. Also on your comment about dropping a neutron I must say I really feel sorry for you. I hope you have heard about Hiroshima. Please think twice before making such comments.

I wonder what the rulers in Syria are thinking right now and, more importantly, what are the Syrian people thinking as they watch the events in Iran.

As far as the people go, it's been said that Iran is the most pro-Western country in the middle East. Don't confuse flag-burning religious zealots who get on TV with the majority of the people. Don't confuse the theocracy and the insane government with the people.

The fact that thousands of ordinary Iranians are willing to risk their lives to protest an anti-Western dictatorship, should be an indicator as to the emotional tide there.

These people are for a change, much like we did hear in the United States over and over again. If the American people were fed up with the way the government was running, then we would act on it (Civil Rights Movement, Vietnam Protests, etc). Do I believe we need are Armed Forces there no, and we shouldn't resort to it. Do I believe there should be support from the International community and United States for these people in Iran fighting for a belief a value that we cherish here, a right to speak their minds, Yes. This is close to what we did in the last Presidential election, what if Obama didn't win because of Mcain and the Republican party sabotaging the votes.........I believe people would have responded and respond with vigilance. Ok, so many peoples ignorance will come out with Iran 's conflict here in United States. "Well they burned our Flags", "There killing soldiers from the United States", and so on. That was then, a different group of people, and not in the beliefs there trying to pursue. Besides if a foreign countries took a good look at what happens in KKK Rallies and The Nation of Islam or and militant group that does not believe in equality then, there assessment wouldn't be to good of the United States either. Take the past and learn from it, lets move forward with Iran and its protest for freedom from its old government. I support there cause and hope they succeed.

this will not end you will see this is the beginning of a revolution mollahs will die all of them

How do you suppose the USA would have reacted if the UN imposed sanctions when dogs, fire hoses, clubs and tear gas were used on civil rights marchers, many of them children, in the '60's? The young people in Iran are fed up. I agree with the post that stated there must be ownership of those freedoms. If the world community had intervened in some way during the 60's many of the sympathizers would have blamed the movement for whatever sanctions were imposed, and it would have ultimately hurt their cause. This may be a good time for the Chickenhawks to shut up and sit down. History is NOT on their side!

Michael K.. where you one of the ones who sat and wondered why the world hated us when the World Trade Center building came tumbling down? To even suggest we enter this country illegally and start arming people is crazy.

Are you aware the U.S. propped up the Shah for all those years?

Obama is totally correct. We can't meddle. The minute we do those brave protesters will be in even more danger of losing their lives.

We must pray for these people. We must show them our support from our people to theirs, and if sanctions are called for and approved by the U.N. then so be it. But the U.S. has GOT TO stop being the moral judge of the world.

Many died in our own revolution. Many died fighting for the equal rights of every citizen in the U.S. and many will die in Iran. If it's worth fighting for, it's worth dying for. I pray the deaths are few, but we know from looking at many revolutions that it will not be, nor will this issue be solved in a week. This may take years.

I just don't understand all this;

Where are the brave Americans who are the symbol of freedom and democracy in the world?!!

I (as an immigrated Iranian) came to this country and am proudly serving this country;
I also have been always proud that this country is the home and carries the statue of liberty;

But where is the support for freedom?

Isn't it the time to come up with a plan and be done with Mullahs for good?! For a better world, Better middle east and better Iran.

Our young girls and boys are being killed in streets of Iran and noone from outside is helping them;

I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND!

Have USA forgotten that the prople of IRAN are the most Pro-American nation in whole middle east?

Why the leaders in world are not getting together to come up with a uniform message and a serious INTL. threat to Mullahs regime in Tehran?

If we don't do anything today, are we not going to regret it later?!!!

The Iranian Foreign Minister says that Western media is hurting the future stability of Iran. I say that Western media is not the cause of Irans problems, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is!
Some say that because I am American that I am "evil", a "Jew lover ", a "puppet", and that I am pushing my beliefs on others.
I AM an American, I am a wife and mother, I am not religious but do not begrudge people their beliefs, I love all people who believe in peace and put the children of this world first. I say SHAME on those people in power all over the world who peddle hate and animosity and then claim that all who do not subscribe to their anti-world ideologies are evil and forcing their "Western" beliefs on others! My wish for all tyrants is this, that they wake up one fine morning to find thousands of people protesting their tyrannical rule outside of their windows. And keep in mind that when this happens, no matter how you try to stop it, the world will be watching! The people of Iran have the right for their voices to be heard, their votes to count and they deserve peace. Do not support leaders who take their queues from the Hitlers of our history. Support freedom, justice, peace, and love!

Neda was 16. A student, a daughter and now a symbol. We watched her die in front of our eyes. Neda's blood pours in the streets and crys freedom. Neda. I hear the crys and they don't go in vien. Every human deserves freedom within reason.

The Saudis aren't in this fight! Are you aware of that? Figures you'd keep harping on something that is irrelevant... Gotten any freebies today, govt handouts.

Douglas,

The Saudis aren't in this fight! Are you aware of that? Figures you'd keep harping on something that is irrelevant... Gotten any freebies today, govt handouts.

Why are "Police" signs in English?

Have we forgotten our past, that we (America) had once asked France to help us during our own Revolutionary war? I'm in the service and have fought in this war over in the Middle East and seen the autorocities and not all the Iraqi people were against us, just trying to make a living with their own lives at stake by helping us. Those that burned our flag did that for propaganda by the peope we are fighting against.
All that man (Mohammed) has asked, is for us to stop trading with Iran and to place more sanctions on Irans govt. Is that too much to ask? Can we honestly turn our backs? War is never easy and never will be, it should only be used as a last resort when all else has failed.

I've been following the story and this kinda makes me sick. These peple choose to fight for freedom and all the world just watches this place go in a meltdown. This is where they need the regime change not Afganistan or Iraq. Iran's govenrment is the true threat to freedom.

Bob Kole, that was incredibly ignorant of you. Canada, Britain, and all the other free nations in the world have free speach too. Get your head out of the American sand and open your eyes to the rest of the world. The United States is NOT the pinacle of civilization.

JackieQ- Brea -Ca

Who burned who's flag ? Are you aqusing these Iranians who have been defending the west and US for 30 years putting their lives at stake of burning flags ? You are just another stupid ignorant. These are the people who are being oppressed by the flagburners fool.

We (Americans) fought for our independence. We fought the GERMANS and JAPANESE and now we are forced to fight RADICAL ISLAM everywhere. Many died in our fights for freedom but we won and it was worth it in the long run. If you want it bad enough YOU Iranians must fight for it. Why do we have to help? Once you gain control with YOUR fight WE can start to assist you with the rebuilding effort and some open trade.

YOU MUST FIGHT FOR YOUR OWN INDEPENDENCE!!!!!!!

I am a little confused gang....Can someone let me know.... are the Iranians fighting for democracy, overthrowing the Clercial regime, yearning for total revolution or just asking for their voices to be heard at the voting booth....

Before we make any moves, or decisions or intervention, should we not first find out exactly what they want. I initially thought that they were ok with the religious aspect of the government but did not like the fact that their voices for election were stifled .

If so there should be nothing but moral support that can be given by the world. We cannot and should not intervene. If the world is asked to intervene by the iranian people and the world acts in unison , that is a different subject.

So, let's find out exactly what the Iranian people are asking for....the world can only make it worse if we fail to understand the true reasons behind all of this ... and remember regardless of anything, they are a sovereign country and no one has the right to go in and decide what they should or should not do...

Strike the iron while it is hot. Israel shuould make a preemptive strike now and kick the a.. of current Iranian leadership.

With state run and censored media in Iran, it has been hard to tell exactly what was true. But right now at this time, there are people in Iran with a kindred spirit of liberty to ours in the U.S. and they are fighting for their freedom. At the very least we should stand together in our support of them despite any other ideological differences.

Freedom is never so valued as when the price for freedom is earned by the people who will enjoy it. Don't lose sight of that fact. They are asking for our help, not for us to take over their fight. Despite what the U.S. government is able or not able to do, our prayers are with the Iranians as they fight for their freedom.

Beef Master X:

Have another beer, you gibbering idiot. And after you hook it down, maybe you can explain to me what more you think Obama ought to do than he has done already. As if he could do anything further....

You seem to think that it is wise to further antagonize a regime with whom we desperately need to engage meaningful dialog. Maybe in your redneck world, a "get tough" stance works. Maybe fighting is the only way you think ought to be used to resolve disputes. But in areas of international diplomacy, words are used, and used carefully.

So, maybe your uni-brow, knuckle-dragging Cro Magnon might-makes-right approach may impress the hell out of the guys at the racetrack, but this is the real world. So stow the John Wayne macho man bravado and let a man who is a hell of a lot smarter than you do his job.

Impeach Obama... when are you wingnuts ever going to let go of the fact that your candidate lost the election?

I just wanted to say what a jack-ass JackieQ- Brea -Ca is. I really don't need to explain my reasoning. His stupid post explains why.

By rejecting imposed election results, the Iranian people, students, organizers, protesters, politicians, reform-minded clerics, and the military have demonstrated they have the power and courage to choose and create the better world they desire.

We must forget the past. We cannot blame the children for the sins of their fathers. It was the fathers that burnt the American flag.
It's thirty years later and if the young people of Iran want a true Democracy, let's back them up as much as we can.
I hope they get through this.

Everyone needs to consider the fact that the election may not have been rigged and that these demonstrators may be the minority in Iran. It should also be noted that media sources like CNN and BBC may be telling only the more dramatic side of the story in order to inspire more Americans to read their articles as was suggested in CNN's own article by Iran's government.

It shows how little we American know about Iran. We have caused many problems in that country from establishing of a first CIA created government to the supporting of Khomeini’s regime. Let’s do it right this time. Help these young well educated people to get their freedom. Establish a government separate from religion there. Stop supporting dictators around the world. If we want to help, we can do it in many many different ways. Open your eye’s and your heart’s.

Response to JackieQ- Brea -Ca:

In response to your "but you used to burn our flag on television" comment... this student was probably a baby if he was even born the last time American flags were burned en masse in Tehran. He does not burn American flags. You have to realize this is a new generation speaking to us.

These people, these protestors speaking out for freedom, for representation, for a voice in the world... they are our borthers and sisters.

The time of Bush, of the hard line rulers across the world, is over. It is time to realize that borders do not separate a people any longer. Races, nationalists, religions... these do not separate people, must not seperate people, willing to live together in harmony.

People willing to live and let live need to work together to eliminate the oppression. The time is now. There are no second chances.

In truth, there's very little the US can do about the situation in Iran. If Pres. Obama spoke more forcefully against the regime, he would just help the conservatives in Iran claim that the protesters are agents of a foreign power. The protesters are fighting those who hate the US, and they represent American / free world democratic values. The dictatorship has given the protesters martyrs – a very foolish choice indeed, in a country where the veneration of martyrs runs deep in the emotions of the people. Dictatorships require the intimidation of the people, and these people are not really intimidated. I wish them well, and I hope for their success.

Burning our flag in the past had a fairly legitimate reason, and not just a propagandaist one.

We were intrumental in overthrowing Mossadeq and installing the Shah Mohammed Reza Pehlavi, a ruthless dictator who was a puppet in US hands. The Shah fell because his thugs began torturing for the love of torture, not as a component of national security. They became lax and sadistic, which led to his quick fall. Once the Shah was overthrown, rather than hand him over to the new regime to face his crimes, we provided him safe haven. That was a pretty bad idea.

Shortly afterward, we financed Iraq's war against Iran in which Saddam used VX gas and other nasty, banned weapons, all provided to him by us. It's estimated that Iran suffered 1 million casualties from the war, which isn't an easy number to forget or forgive.

Most of the flag burning these days is done by the instrumentality of Iran's government, but there are still plenty of people in Iran who remember that we've been pretty rotten to them, too.

Iraqis didn't greet us with open arms, and Iranians won't either. And don't forget that Iraq was arguably more westernized than Iran. Iraq actually had a secular government when we overthrew it. That said, I think there are things we can do to facilitate regime collapse in Iran, just don't put any of our men on the ground to accomplish it.

What you are seeing in Iran today, with Mohammed and his fellow reform seekers, is what the world saw happen in the former Soviet union, after decades of harsh military rule. These young people have been educated, and want to be a part of the world community. The world, and yes, the US should continue to bring all the diplomatic pressure it can mustor upon the illegal iranian government. I pray that these young people are able to sustain there movment, and see that there country will be welcomed into the world community once the government is reformed.

May God keep them safe, and strong!

How can I sit back and live my life guilt free with the freedoms this country has protected and given me while the poor Iranians struggle for their freedoms? Oh, I know how, I just have to remind myself what those evil bastards did to our citizens back in 1979 when they allowed this current regime to take over. Suck it up Mohammed, you are going to have to dig your way out of this!!

Open letter to everybody in the free world.

Get involved. If we are to claim that, our greatest values are freedom and liberty, how can we then sit passively by when others fight for the same rights ? How can we claim these rights for ourself if we are not ready to defend them everywhere and in all times ? Why can we claim to hold the banners of freedom, while standing idly by when others are oppressed ? If our governments cannot or will not fight then we MUST. Get involved support the Iranian people in their plead for Freedom and democracy.

To all who keep pointing to past incidents of American flag-burning on the parts of Iranians, remember this:

On September 11, 2001, the streets of Iran filled with people, burning candles in vigil. For us, for our suffering, for our loss.

Sure, there are extremists over there who still hate us, because their government has told them to. But they are NOT the majority. They are not the Face of Iran... they are just the mask that the Iranians wish to shed.

I am an Iranian and I read most of the above comments. I appreciate those people who can hear us and trying to help us. In response to Jackie, just remember this regime is not representing the majority of Iranians. This regime is afraid of losing momentum in middle east. I read and heard from some friends they brought some Lebanese Hesbolah and Palestinians to beat and kill our people. This regime has money and brings them to support the regime in Iran. Also note Lebanese Hezbolah and Hamas will send their forces to Iran, because they don't want to lose their connection with their root (Islamic regime). They are afraid of doing re-election. If they had 65% votes there wouldn't be afraid of re-election.

I don't know why America is not acting wisely in most of the time. In Iraq they invaded Iraq while people over there were not ready to have freedom and democracy. And now U.S. government doesn't do anything while people in Iran are ready to have real democracy. We need a little help from western countries as Mohamad said. More sanctions will bring the regime down...

I doubt very seriously that this person and every single person in Iran burned US flags in the last 15 years. I think his ideas hold merit.

Regardless of what happened, the Iranian regime as we know it for the last 30 years is over.

It is over because the elites cannot come into an agreement and there are open dessent among the ruling class.

It is over because more so than ever members of the reformist bloc are able to secure a critical mass of supporters.

Most importantly, it is over because their Supreme Leader have proven to be a political idiot in navigating this election process. From his absurdly early declaration of election victory to his impassionate speech warning crackdown on what's a largely peaceful protest, he have decided to not only side against his own people, but fundermentally undermind the notion that there is a social contract between the regime and its people.

There is now no pretense that the iranian theocratic regime is dictatorial and does not serve the will or the interest of their own citizens.

I sincerely wish the protesters and reformers in Iran their best and I hope they will stay safe. Rather they know it or not, their government will not be the same ever again.

It is of no use to try to convice people like Jackie that those who burned the American flag, or took Americans hostage back in the 79/80 revolution are not the same as the people fighting for their rights.

These type of close minded individuals do not care to see what is really happening -much like a child has selective hearing, these people are selective to what they see and believe.

I for one have family in Iran and know that this young man, Mohammed is speaking for the majority of the protestors. LIke he said, Iranians do not hate the West, they want to be a part of the World community. They are not anti-Israel and actually DO recognize that the Holocaust happened.

I am an American Christian and my husband is Iranian and Muslim. His family in Iran loves me for who I am. They do not see me as an infidel nor do they see other Christians or Jews as infidels – we are all people of the book.

What you see on the mainstream media, is what the radicalists want you to see, they want you to see them burning the flag, they want you to think that they are out to wipe Israel off the map. The young reformists want this changed. They want to be recognized and not condemned by the world. This is what they are working for and this is why we must support them. I cannot be there – thus I wear green in support. THis is something that we can all do and why it may not be able to physically help, it is a sign that can be seen around the world. Solidarity we must have.

Open your eyes and your hearts

NEDA – your voice will not be forgotten

Iam a Ugandan in Belgium, i strongly support the Iranian people, governments today must rule according to people's consent not coercion. The Iranian dictators must be feeling guilty of crimes against humanity. The world needs to condemn these inhuman activities of the Iranian authorities against innocent citizens. Shame on the Iranian dictators!

To you who think these are your average iranian burning flags whenever you see them on tv. NO it is not!!! They are mainly hired or Basiji members who gather on orders of the government to make their support look larger than it really is. Trust me it is nothing special they do this all the time. I have a friend involved and he gets asked several times to participated and is told what to say how to act etc. really this happens all the time it might seem bizzare to you guys but it is a bizzare regime.
So dont think iranian burn your flags its really not like that.

CANT WE GET THESE FOLKS SOME AUTOMATIC WEAPONS?

and for whoever suggested that Mousavi is blaming the west – read it again. The post clearly points to European communication device that the regime is using to block the internet. clearly read what is being written before you make judgements.

This story is fabricated.

Hamid, actually Israel is the most pro-American nation.

Americans are promoting staying out of it for many reasons. If nothing else, the fact that it will mean more if the Iranians gain it themselves is enough reason. But there are other reasons as well. Interfering could mean a third world war. Not to mention that the US is currently involved in two wars, the American economy is nearly bankrupt because of funding those things (and a bunch of other stuff), and the American soldiers are committing suicide in record numbers due to the stress of the wars they are already involved in.

No matter how much the warmonger Republicans want to interfere, the United States needs to stay out of it. We don't have limitless resources, no matter what the rest of the world thinks.

FREE IRAN!

The protests will slowly dwindle down as their Government will soon shoot any protester. The world leans on the US whenever trouble breaks out, and blames us for everything bad in the world too. Iraq is free, women can go to school, people can think, pray, and act differently then others without fear of Saddams Death Squads. Within 5 years Iraq will be prosperous, and it's all because of the US. Iranians see this freedom, and they deserve it. Unfortunately, without military action, there is no way to stop this regime. But the seeds of discontent have been planted, reformists will group together behind the scenes, the Ayatollah's powers have been greatly diminished, and the World will be hard-pressed to recognize an illegimate Government. The CIA and other covert forces will begin speaking with the reformists there, and before you know it, this regime will tumble...and with it, the funding for 80% of the terrorist groups in the world will be gone. Change rarely happens overnight, but once the sound of freedom is heard, there is no stopping it.

Someone please have the guts to save the Iranians!
Let's invade and overthrow that regime. It's time for another shock and awe! but this time, don't linger...

I feel that the US does need to intervene in order to clean up the mess they started 30 years ago. Ous families have been torn apart for decades because of this regime and it is inhumane. I for one was raised without my family for practically my entire life and I am sick and tired of the Iranian people not being heard. We are the Doctors, the lawyers, the builders the engineers the scientists that serve in the US as excellent citizens! But now our families in Iran need help. One single death is too much! Stop this Violence from spreading any more. Give Iran the jump start it needs WORLD!

Liberty has to be earned.

America and the West shouldn't interfere. It'll actually do more harm than good. Civil rights and Human Rights should intervene. The UN should monitor the situation closely. Iran is a sovereign country. Any fight that the people have against the government should be taken up from within the country, not from without. If women and children are attacked, the world body should issue warnings, but i doubt that a dictator regime would notice. God help you, my heart bleeds for Iran. I saw Neda dying. I wonder how many such people died in Iraq. Only prayer can change things, not violence.

one commenter said that we have never seen our streets turned into a war zone. actually we have. during the vietnam war a lot of warring went on in the streets. check out the 1968 democratic convention in chicago.

before that was the civil rights war-in-the-streets. we now have an african american first family. behind that are firehoses, tear-gas and, yes, shooting.

nobody living now can remember the civil war. that was war in the streets, war in the woods, war in the swamps, war in the farms. go to gettysburg. check-it-out.

seems like freedom may be a right but it's not a "given." something we've had to fight for even in the usa all thru the years.

Unfortunately, for this young man, his views are even more extreme then his leader Mousavi. I don't think Mousavi is willing to overthrow the Guardian Council at all. If the majority of the young people of Iran share this man's views, Mousavi may well be a disappointment for them. We here in America have already forgotten the birthing pains that gave rise to our nation. Iran's Islamic regime is not ready to fall, the Revolutionary Guard and Basiji have millions under arms and have rallied against them. The only way the revolution will succeed is if the military defects and joins the people. I just don't see this happening.

I just want to ask to those who are very duch in this area WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME To INTERVENE? IS now Or Never!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think we have to help the Iranians in every way we can and if it means stop trading including Oil.

I would like to remind that NOBODY proved that the Iranian elections had been rigged. Suppose that around 60% of the Iranian voters do like Mr. Ahmadinejad – what then? 1n 1968, students in Paris mutinied to overthrow the government but were not supported by the country and thus lost. An instructive lesson.

This story is so fabricated, all this masquerade in Iran is western product.

All of you, i mean all of you do make good arguments toward the cause. I can see everyone's opinion. I understand how hard it is to start to embrace a Muslim country when all we have heard from them is "Death to Israel" and "Death to the U.S". You can say all you want to about the people who say those things and burn our flags, but they are a small minority. Yet the people that are asking for help are also a very small group as well. In the end, they will use American support for there own efforts and in the end we have yet another nasty regime on our hands. I am sry to put it that way, but it is what America would even do if it were in Iranian shoes. If the students of Iran want our support, if they want us to save them from a dictator, then they need to really emphasis it. Okay yea you have had a few rallies, some people got killed, and all of the sudden you want to recognize Israeli rights? This is hilarious! Listen students of Iran. You think all the Arab countries around you are going to respect you for turning to us for help! Everyone preaches our destruction and you will stand out from all to embrace American support. If your so serious about all this, you need to start protesting against your ruthless Jiahd boys. Start speaking out against all this stupid death to America stuff. Stop supporting the killers you have sent into Iraq.

The posters here who asked why we should help the refromists because some in Iran have chanted "death to America", are unknowing tools of the repressive Iranian regime. Those rallies in which they shout that are government sponsored and organized. In case any of you are blind AND deaf (one wonders how you post online), they were shouting that Friday, at the speech by the Ayatollah. These young people in Iran are fighting AGAINST that, they want to be part of the civilized world, and we have a DUTY as Americans to support them 100%.

How can you say something so untrue. These people never burned American Flag!! These Iranians are not what you have been seeing in the News for the last 20 years. These burning flags and Terrorism acts are doings of the Dictator Government of Iran. They donot even care for their own people. They are not even called Iranians. They rule Iran for their own pockets!! This Government and the revelotuionary Guards are what you have been seeing in the news for the last 20 years. Iranians are not like that.

In response to the last comment on the burning of American flags, lets not forget the many unspeakable inhumane acts that our country has also comitted against our fellow human beings. When are we going to really get that we are all interconnected, that what we do for another we are doing for ourselves. I am sending my prayers to Tehran and the many people whose lives are being shattered, some for the whole world to view. I pray not only for them but for the entire world. Its surreal to be typing away on my laptop, safe in my home, my family safe and as I go about my day there are people dealing with great stress and loss. Burn the flag or not, we as Americans can walk down the streets of our cities and be certain that there are not snipers hired by our government aiming at us as we go by !

If only Americans were as intelligently informed about their government as the Iranians, we might do the same thing..

Throw the bums out.. ALL OF EM! Trash K street; don't let any of the same people back in.

Trade $,1 one vote, for 1 person one vote! Force the (new) Congress to write laws in english, not legalese and start from scratch with the Consitution of the United States of America and the Bill of Rights.. that's it!

Sure now you want our help.... It seemed like yesterday you were burning our flag and chanting death to America... death to Bush... Why don't you people get some spine. Freedom and liberty don't come cheap.

I support the Iranian people.

Never before would you have heard me say those words. These are truly historical times for that country.

I'm glad Obama hasn't intervened. We as the United States don't always have to intervene at every conflict. Aside from that, Obama has stated he wanted to open dialogue with the Iranians. If he were to condemn these elections and no change of leadership takes place, I guarantee the U.S. will continue to have a strained relationship with the current Iranian government. Let's take a wait and see approach.

"Peace, Commerce and Honest Friendship with all nations. Entangling alliances with none." Thomas Jefferson

The internal affairs of another country are none of our business. Meddling will only bring us trouble. Look at what we did to Iran in the 50's when our CIA overthrew their elected leader that we didn't like.

WE SHOULD STAY OUT!!!

If we all think and send positive energy, peace, freedom, love when thinking of the Iranian protestors and their supporters, that is allot. Butterfly effect, critical mass consciousness.........whatever one would call it could really help this situation.

Why not have a 5 minute time period or so, to meditate, pray, hope, send peace and love, be still ........all in support of the Iranians that are trying to have their human rights met?

Like a certain time when the entire world can participate. Say on Friday which is their prayer day? Or Wednesday? Or as soon as it can be organized. This could work. We just have to believe it and it seems the conscious shift of humans these days, can make it happen.

CNN – how about it??

If we all think and send positive energy, peace, freedom, love when thinking of the Iranian protestors and their supporters, that is allot. Butterfly effect, critical mass consciousness.........whatever one would call it could really help this situation.

Why not have a 5 minute time period or so, to meditate, pray, hope, send peace and love, be still ........all in support of the Iranians that are trying to have their human rights met? and for all humans around the world, as well.

Like a certain time when the entire world can participate. Say on Friday which is their prayer day? Or Wednesday? Or as soon as it can be organized. This could work. We just have to believe it and it seems the conscious shift of humans these days, can make it happen.

CNN – how about it??

to Jackie Q,

Those who burn flags are a minority. THose people are brought in with buses from the rural areas to make the demonstrations look strong. Also 75% of Iran population wasn't even alive the last time there was a revolution.

You live in the bay area? go see how many Iranians are grad students at stanford and cal. Go see how many hi level Iranian tech people live in the silicon valley. None of them ever burnt the US flag

I hope that that America and the other international communities can do something to help them. Whatever happened in the past if the majority wants peace and this government than everyone should do something to help.

To those suggesting US and the rest of world intervene with covert force etc.

Remember it was the US and Europe that put the Shah on the throne, that looked to many to be nothing more than a puppet ruler, that ultimately led to the revolution in the first place.

Wow so you break the law and attack police – idiots in America want to support them.

Reminds me of Darfur – didn't hear support for them. LA riots fighting the injustice of police brutality, heard them called animals by so many. Saw so many get beaten down by the thug police but no sympathy for them. They didn't even show this on tv. That was in the name of freedom and injustice to those who rioted.

This movement represents a small minority in Iran. I guess when Bush's daddy and Cheney had lunch with the supreme court members to help cheat in 2000 we should have marched and stopped all traffic in the business districts for weeks. I wonder if America would have allowed that to happen? I don't think so...

Thousands of minorities in America feel repressed by the government, maybe we should reach out to other countries. Yes, I'm allowed to demonstrate but when the police tell me to disperse and I refused, I will be arrested. If I resist, they will brutalize me and throw me in jail. Many young men die by the hands of our law enforcement each year.

NEDA !!!!

Its sad to see so many comments spreading hate and disgust for the Iranian people. We saw pictures of a few radicals burning the American flag and we dare say that that must be the general consesus of that country?! Let us not forget the last 8 years we had under a suppresive regime that the rest of the world thought we supported! Let us NOT become hypocrites and forget our own history so easily!

Iran is run by the extremely conservative, extremely poor class. The people who support that government are not only ignorant, but are brain washed into believing whatever nonsensical rhetoric the Ayatollah spout. They are, however, less than half of the population! To say the entire country supports the radical right is like saying the entire population of the United States supported Bush. I know I did not support Bush for one second, yet I have been lambasted for living in a country where he was a leader. I would never do that to anyone else, especially those crying for help!

The Iranian people are loving, intelligent, sophisticated and beautiful. We could all learn a few things from them if we stop, listen, and support those who are fighting, tooth and nail, with only their voices and the internet! Support our fellow human beings!

This may open a door to take care of that Power Plant, You know what i mean.

We can't sit and watch Iranian young and brave people are dying on the streets of Iran. This is not an action movie... what we are seeing is people are dying on the street over there for the basic human right. we should stand up by them all around the world.

It is very interesting that many of the people that are commenting here do not feel our government has a responsibility towards Iranians, which is why I feel I need to give a short recap of history.

The tyrannical Islamic regime ruling Iran today is there in part because of US actions during the past 50 years. In 1953, the CIA orchestrated a coup that overthrew the democratically elected Iranian Prime Minister, Mohammad Mosadeq, and reinstalled the Shah and his dictatorial power. The Shah, backed by the US, then ruled with ruthless authority and suppressed political freedom, which led to popular uprising. Although many political parties (Islamic, Nationalist, Communist) were contesting the Shah, the US (ironically) backed the Islamic party because it mainly feared a Communist takeover in Iran. After the 1979 revolution in Iran, the US supported Saddam Hussein after he invaded Iran in 1980 throughout the 8 year Iran-Iraq war. This war allowed the Islamic party to solidify their power by uniting people against a common external enemy while simultaneously exterminating all of the opposing party leaders.

If you see state sponsored propaganda of US flag burning, please remember that it is not all unwarranted. The hostage crisis was in direct response of the US giving the exiled Shah asylum, even though the people were asking for him to be returned to Iran and face trial. During the Iran-Iraq war, the US supplied Saddam with Chemical weapons, which he used on Iranian civilians in Kurdistan. The US even shot down an Iranian civilian plane in 1988 (Iran Air Flight 655), which killed 300 innocent men, women, and children.

I am not saying that we should send US troops to Iran or spend a dollar of US taxpayer money. I do think however, that we should be more considerate and sympathetic to the situation and understand what our role was in the fate of this poor country. Any direct US intervention would be counterproductive, it would give ammunition to the Iranian establishment to frame the opposition uprising as a US-backed effort to overthrow the regime, which will in turn legitimize their brutal suppression. A productive measure would be international institutions, such as the UN, to increase their pressure on the government of Iran to stop suppressing their people. And of course we all know that the US has powerful presence in the UN and can make this happen.

oh ! that trip is fine .. .sorry i thought this is a subject about trips in france
sorry ! lol

We support the fight for freedom in Iran – we were students ourselves in 1979 when the Iranians took to the streets and burned our flag – we did not like that – but the people of Iran who are demonstrating today are young, educated, and want to move on from the past – we have witnessed the tyranny of the current Iranian government – we as the United States of America must be a beacon of light for other countries in the world who want freedom and the right to determine their own destiny – Obama is not doing enough – he must do more as the leader of the free world – he must take actions to show that the USA supports freedom and democratic elections for the people of Iran. Our country is based on freedom for its people – the USA (and the world) should not turn its back on the people of Iran for wanting freedom.

Who ever it was that said to Impeach Obama must of voted Republican. The reason that I say that is because Bush would of jumped right in and sent american soldiers right on over there to die trying to make someone else's life more comfortable. I support Obama's decision to sit back and watch what is going on. We are fighting 2 foreign battles, and a battle of economics on our own soil. I think that if we are going to get involved, it should be a general concensus of the whole world.

Bob Kole said: "We are the ONLY country in the WORLD that has free speech"
You probably are a hillbilly who believe all want the American TV said and you have never leave your neighborhood because your afraid.

Jacki-Q -Brie:

It was not ordinary people like Mohammed or those fighting on the streets for liberty that used to burn your flags. Those who burnt your flags are the same thugs connected to the government who are beating and killing innocent Iranians on the street and preventing them from basic human rights and democracy.
Please be aware of this fact.

We drop bombs on Iraq and kill innocent people in the name of freedom. They fight back and they are insurgents. They get tortured and killed, but no one in America will hollar out for them to be free and America to not kill them. O right, we are bring democracy...

Obama is doing what needs to be done. Silence. He is removing the age old crutch that Iran's government has used time and time again. It is the West's fault. The West did this. Blame them not us. We are just a poor Islamic country being attacked by the West once again, pity us. This time around their bluff is being called and they are going to look like the cowards they are.

Iran's government is now forced to make accusations that it cannot back up. Hopefully this turns the tide and starts shifting the people in the middle and even some on the governments side.

From what I have read and have seen the Iranian people are a educated people and progressive. They want to open up to the world and welcome in outsiders to show off their heritage and country. They want freedom. I hope they get it.

P.S. Anyone hinting at military assistance is just plain dumb. That is the last restort and I would probably hold back on that even if the country was in a full fledged civil war.

Interesting interview but it seems to me that those students are not mainstream Iranians. Most Iranians don't give a rat's ass about Israel.

I think this is a lost cause because I think Iran overall is a deeply conservative society.

Majority of Iranians love the west, specially America. The Iranian public have been repressed and bullied to say anti-american slogans for ove 30 years. Ever wondered why there are so many iranians that live in all over the world and not Iran? It's because they hate that regime. The ones who had money and were fortunate left a long time ago. Now it's time to help the unfortunate ones who are stuck in Iran. They need help to overthrough this regime of dictatorship. This regime have been commiting crimes against human rights for years. Now it has gone far enough and it's time to change. The world needs to support them. Open your minds and look at the big picture.

Why USA has to be the only one to help, why you people do not ask this help to the European Union who is the one to sell things and services to Iran regimen. What about Rusia and China

The younger generation of Iran are not the part of those terrorists that took over Iran 30 years ago. Even Back then, Iranian wanted unconditional freedom and were tired of tyranny. It was unfortunate that they end up with Mullahs and Ayottallahs. We should help the people of Iran to acheive freedom finally(after centuries of dictorship).
My heart goes to young Iranian who are ready to die rather than living under mullah's rule. Keep fighting guys.

I have been praying for Iran for more than 12 years. These people are not our enemies. They are victims of a government that rules by intimidation, torturing and imprisoning dissidents, Christians and Bahais and any who impose its policies with any degree of openess. May the leaders of the United States and other free nations see the handwriting on the wall and be able to interpret it correctly. May they speak out unequivocally, condemning the brutality, on behalf of the freedom loving Iranians. Iran will be free!.

I do not believe all people in Iran hate us. I believe that the videos have been propoganda and they may have been forced to chant they hate us. There are good and bad in all but I believe the Iranian people or more good than bad. Pray for them.

NEDA RIP.

"Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace — but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! ... Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!" – Patrick Henry

The critics of Obama's policy because they feel he is not "doing enough" about Iran, whatever that means, evidently do not remember what happened with the Shiites in Iraq under Saddam Hussein, way before the Iraq war. They were emboldened by US ya-ya encouraging "the people" to rise up against Hussein at that time. As I recall, the Shiites mistakenly thought the US would support them with concrete assistance when they laid their lives on the line for "democracy." Hussein proceeded to slaughter them, including use of chemical agents to put down that "revolution."
Unless we are prepared to go in militarily and use force, and I don't think anyone is seriously considering that at this time, Obama seems to be striking the right tone on this issue.
Demonstrators need to build a clandestine network and stockpile weapons on the QT, until they have a realistic shot rather than confront the security forces directly to get mowed down.

Frank S

If Mousavi, not a student, asks for U.S. help, then we should provide it.

We should let go of the past and support these people in their attempt NOW to be a free people. By we I mean the US, the EU, Asia, and the Arab countries. If we all come together to help them then the dictatorship there will not be able to resist.

Please get the spelling of the names right. MohammEd is the arabic way, and MohammAd is the Iranian spelling. One letter may not mean much to you but makes a lot of difference to Iranians.

If we assist Iran in the name of freedom, where will we get the money from? Won't this add to the debt of our children?

Next election if my person doesn't win I won't to start the march organization up now so we can shut down American cities because the election is rigged. Come on join me (idiots) Americans for the revolution...or should we just wait 4 years like we did with Bush and be denied and then wait another 4 years to finally get rid of Mr. Bush and elect somone else. Come on republicans revolt against Obama. You feel like you were cheated right? Come on break the law and raise up in protest. Why don't we do that as Americans? Because we are respectful of our country.

This is the former president of Iran, therefore the country is not a dictatorship. The new president was elected or rigged into office but another election will come and they should prepare for that time like respectful citizens. Why didn't the former Iran president inact all the reforms during his first term?

Using the excuse "you used to burn our flag" doesn't make sense. How do you know that these protesters were even a part of that? Don't blame something that a few Iranians did on the entire country.

IHateSpam :

Actually I supported the death to Bush part, well I didn't want him death just rolled in tar and feathers, since he and his people made a coup by cheating in the elections. Bush was the most stupid American president ever. The fact that he stayed for 8 years a testament to stupidity in America as well. just my 2 cents.

Sounds like someone paid by someone to say what war mongers want to hear so we can start a war in Iran.

Sorry, Iran. We couldn't help you because we are BROKE. Bush ran up our debts into nowhere to be recovered. Sorry, Iran, your on own.

"Neda", "Neda".............she is the rally cry for all who want to have freedom and human rights. Her rights were stopped.......but her name will live on.......all Nations of Peoples have their own "Neda"........the Native American community understand only to well.........the silence brought on by a bullett.....from someone who thinks they are in power.
Then.......reality.......they are not in power for long............the "Neda"s of the world show us this.
You who are fighting for freedom and human rights you have many,many people praying for you.........we wait your next request.

Iranian people have never wanted to Burn American Flag. Even though with little communication with out side and the propagandas that have shown the US an enemy of Iran.
Those who burned the flag of US, are now killing Iranian People, they are Government supported groups like Basij Militia.
If you go among Iranian people you'll Undestand how much they hate Hamas, Hezbollah and such groups supported by government. You always see waht Iran's government want you to see not the true Iranian folk. The Government don't pay any attention to People desire as you can see now. Burning the flag is the govenrment action with it's militia not the peaceful Iranian people.

I can't understand why the governement is hurting their own people. They are obviously hiding something, and are killing innocent people to keep whatever secret they have. I can understand why Obama has decided to wait a little longer. Its not that he doesn't want to do anything, but we cannot afford to start another war right now, especailly because of an election in Iran.

I feel your pain Iran, and i wish there was more we could do. Right now, we will pray for you. But if the U.S. is forced to step in and help the people, then so be it. I will only stand by God's decision in this matter.

jackie... 'they' burned your flags? so you say that every iranian has burned a yankee flag? first of all that is just stupid, secondly, who cares....

This is a response to Noel and Christian

How naive and stupid are you. Educate yourself before open your mouth. These people are not the same as those supported 1979 revolution. Most of these people were not even born at that time. The population of Iran has doubled since revolution. These never chanted anything bad about anyone and they are not minority either.

They will prevail eventually.

Who would want their own country to be sanctioned as Mohammed does in this staged interview.

From the Netherlands, this is the moment to support freedom. Then you'll find God automatically. Fight for it, Freedom is fantastic.

People can be so judgemental and ignorant... THOSE BURNING FLAGS ON TV ARE NOT THE MAJORITY... THESE SAME PEOPLE ARE KILLING/KIDNAPPING OUR YOUNG! The same young that are dying (AGAIN) for their country's freedom! We are the sons and daughters of CYRUS THE GREAT! Eventhough my people have been ruled for 30 years by the blood thirsty Mullahs... our people's spirit still endures!
SUPPORT THEM! BY WHATEVER MEANS! DO NOT LET THEM FEEL THEY ARE ALONE!
AMERCIANS ARE SUPPOSE TO STAND FOR FEEDOME AND DEMOCRACY (or at least that's the rhetoric we all hear).. THEN LETS SEE IT! SHOW THEM!! SHOW THE WORLD!

This is a great story!
I hope it is all true, and this is how people really feel in Iran. The fall of the Iranian system of goverment would be like the fall of the Berlin Wall in the cold war.
How brave these people are to be standing up to their religous clerics, and asserting that they are not leading the country properly.
Obama....Needs to get off the sidelines and endorseing whom ever turns out to be the winner in this battle. The fall of Iran by it's own people would be a devastateing blow to our enemies in the war against Terror.
Stand up Obama, make one of your great speeches and inspire Iranian people!

Chris in NH says CNN didn't cover our revolution. I'm sorry but I had to laugh.

I think US should not send troops to Iran. But we need to help any other possible way. We do not have to stay aside and keep silence. Ahmadinejad got blood on his hands do Obama will talk to mass killer?

wow you americans are very very naive.... If you see pictures of iranians burning flags, do you not understand that it does not mean every iranian is anti- US? a very large majority of iranians are pro-west and anti-regime..

do you not remember the Iraqis burning american flags? that didnt stop you from attacking them....

so before posting your pro-american rants, get the facts straight...

Like now that in Media of Iran you can see no demonstarations but in fact there are many of them in cities of Iran.
Never trust The liar government of Iran and its hirelings they want you to see

some of you people are so ignorant.. are all americans like you and bush?

Anyone who thinks Obama would help in this matter is blind. He supports those in power that propagate the "death to America" mindset.

Fariba Radfar and Reza don't worry. Those individuals like IHateSpam and Alex and JackieQ represent the same type of narrow-minded minority similar to that of Iran accused of past insults to the US and other Western nations. The majority of people following the growing defiance of tyranny in Iran stand behind the efforts of those many who protest in the streets daily and who face sniper bullets and police batons for their bravery. Freedom doesn't come cheap but it is also take for granted by some in free countries. I apologize on behalf of decent Americans for comments made above by those Americans taking their freedom for granted. The US, UK, France and other world powers should work with the UN to pressure the current Iranian Government, that has no right to be in power, by way of sanctions and trade embargos, etc. I would hate to cause strife to the people of Iran but without these types of measures, the international pressure on such a regime would be non-existant.

I can't believe some of the selfish, self-righteous, ignorant and, I have to say, typically American (as seen by the rest of the world) comments here.

Some of you people disgust me.

And to think these poor people in Iran are appealing to YOU.

You should hang your heads in shame.

alex, get your facts straight, they did prove it...

I ache to see the violence and suffering. I hope desperately that it will end soon and end well, and that the lives lost will not be lost in vain.

Steve:
The Islam religion has to go. Just imagine the outcry if the pope ordered mass murders of all non Catholics or the head of the Episcopalian church ordered the killings of all protesants.
What kind of religion orders tyranny against their own people.

It's happened, many times.

The protestant reformation was bloody. Explore it a little. You'll find things like:
The Peasants War of 1524-25. Scores of Catholics were slaughtered by protestants/peasants angry at the Catholic heirarchy.

Roughly around the same time, Henry VIII was reforming in England. There are several well-known instances of violence and persecution associated with religion at this time. Thomas More was burned at the stake. Robert Aske was hanged in chains as a leader of The Pilgrimage of Grace. About 200 people were put to death because of the Pilgrimage; several were nobles, many were clergy.

And the Pope has, in the past, ordered the mass murder of non-Catholics. One time is referred to as "The Crusades", another as "The Inquisition".

These are just a few examples I can think of straightaway, but there are many, many more throughout human history.

I do not think that the West should go into Iran with the military in any way. I did not believe that we should go into Iraq or Afghanistan, either. I believe we should look for nonviolent ways to solve problems (yes, even violent ones) and that violence should be used only as a last resort. Nobody ever 'wins' when things are violent.

Those of you who would withhold any assistance to these people ... SHAME ON YOU. What he is asking for is quite feasible. Burying our heads in the sand will not make our problems with Iran's government go away. Negotiations with a fundamentalist mentality will not bear long lasting fruit. A new government in Iran is the way to the solution. Even if Mousavi is cut from the same cloth, he can only be better than Ahmadinejad. Besides, it's not about him. It's about the educated people in Iran. If they win now, they will not be silenced again. AND THAT IS GOOD FOR THE WORLD.

Big Bri – that is the most intellectual post I've seen today. This was Mr. Bush's plan from the beginning to reform the Middle East. If Obama starts meddling, it will throw off the plan greatly. Great job President Bush & Great Job President Obama. That is what we do best as a nation, divide and conquer.

ok...put your flags down American people, sit on your own nationalistic ego, DO NOT claim you have understood how iraq worked/works, DO NOT claim iranian politics now makes sense to you, DO NOT say you '"magically understand' how north korean is in fact fitting the axis of evil rhetoric....
LOOK! your view, unless there on ground is moderated by mediums through which few people, few groups have control. STATE RUN media means just that...moussolini, hitler, marcos, saddam...many great powers from different generations over time fight to retain control of how people thought by controlling what the saw and heard...
OPINIONS count, but not when they're ill or mis-informed...when so your opinion is relegated to just an excuse of fluffy proportions, a contrived and convenient way to NOT get involved, to NOT search for the TRUTH.
flag burning pictures were scenes on television, yes. but do you know WHOM set those flags burning? NO! like those held in guantanamo bay...they are specific people held for unspecific crimes.
ONE CANNOT HOLD "the iranians" as a specific group for some nebulous, unspecific crime.
this group of people need from other groups of people...specific help.
for argument purposes..i am neda, i am "divine voice"...and so are you the moment you speak from secured knowledge and NOT rabble rousing rhetoric.
jeez...enough is enough of that kind of banter...it DOESN'T work

To those who say they burned our flag…. Who are they?... they are bunch of uneducated, religious freaks and tugs. They don’t represent the whole Iranian population. They are paid to go to demonstration and Friday prayers and given orders to do what the mullah regime is telling them to do. So please don’t reminisce the past.
To President Obama, these students were encouraged by you. Don’t leave them alone now. Please help them.
To all the leaders of the free world, please impose strict sanction on Iranian government.
To the People of the world, please help people in Iran. Boycott countries such as china, Russia, and Cuba who are supporting this mullah regime in Iran. Write letters to your government and representative and ask them to cut ties with governments who are repressing their people. Help this movement. If we don’t help them there would be lots of killing of these young lives. Government has their pictures. They will hunt them down one by one. They will arrest them, torture them and kill them. Please help.

The USA should not intervene in this matter. This is not our fight. Pres. Obama is doing the right thing, non-intervention is our best angle.
Also I believe the Iranian Government is doing the right thing to quell these demonstrations. I hope Mr Obama is not suckered into this fight. Anyway in any election someone will lose...stay out of this.

Student: Where were you when Iran burned our flags, when Palestinians danced in the streets and cheered when planes flown by Arabs bombed our country; where were you when we fought for OUR freedoms ; where have Muslims been while Americans have been threatened, beheaded, and tortured? We have died for you. Fight the good fight and you will help yourselves by winning your freedom.

IHateSpam June 22nd, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Sure now you want our help…. It seemed like yesterday you were burning our flag and chanting death to America… death to Bush… Why don’t you people get some spine. Freedom and liberty don’t come cheap.
-------------------------------–

The people protesting are not the islamic extremist that call for the death and destruction of America. The point of the protests is to speak out against that regime and to stand up and fight for their freedom. It's easy as American's to sit back and feel bad for whats going on in another country, while we sit in our comphy homes, and drive in our nice cars, and shop at our department stores and malls. We can protest on our streets, in front of our capitals and our White House without fear of being shot at, or beaten, or killed. Feeling bad for them is not enough, we need to stand up and tell our own leaders that the people of the world will not stand by silently while a government beats and tortures innocent people. This isn't about Iranian rights. This isnt about the United States vs the Middle East. This is about trying to help innocent Human beings who just want what we as Americans have. Freedom and Democracy. We went into Iraq for lesser reasons. We have a responsibility to help these people, as one of the worlds super-powers.

Barack Obama is absolutely right in ruling out any kind of intervention in Iran.The same demonstrators in Tehran,who now seek American intervention,could very well turn around and accuse the Great Satan of all kinds of high crimes.The anti-war groups in America should make it clear that America is no longer the world's policeman.

I Hate Spam –

These people do have spine – more than you ever will. THese people are standing up for what they believe in. THey are withstanding brutal beatings and killings just becuase their opinions are against what the regime holds as true.

all you are doing is sitting here belittling their efforts. Open your eyes, do your research before you speak.

Just like a few radical iranians have made their nation look bad in your eyes. So will a few moronic americans who are too thick headed to listen will make our nation look bad in their eyes.

Hamas and Hezbollah who are called basijis are the one beating up Iranian peaceful demonstrators. They are ARABS, they speak Arabic NOT Farsi. Members of basijis are Palestinians and Lebanese. The Middle East are silent due to the fact those leaders in the Middle East are afraid if the people of Iran succeed in ousting their ayatollah, they too who belong to the royal family leading their country will be ousted by their OWN people. The only country in the Middle East supporting Iran reformist right now is ISRAEL.

United Nation Security Council is silent about this, where is the WORLD COMMUNITY? UN IS USELESS!!!!!!

Welcome to The Second Cold War. Iran teetering on the brink of regime and revolution, with the potential for trigger-finger leaders obtaining nuclear weapons. North Korea vowing to attack the United States if provoked, and planning a long range test that could strike Hawaii... On our Independence Day. The stakes are high. It seems like too often, individuals with a laptop and internet connection make the claim to be International Affairs experts. Not a single person here that is inflammatory towards the conditions in Iran has any real grasp of the situation there, nor the intelligence that President Obama has regarding that situation and others around the globe. If you want to help, write your representatives, rather than rant anonymously on a CNN page. If you want to spew hate rhetoric, look up your local Republican charter. I'm sure they'd love to hear about your problems.

The countries that have tested germ weapons on their own populace:

USSR
USA
Iraq
Iran

That's one club most Canadians are glad NOT to be a part of!

This quote from Mohammad is painful because it's just like us – frequently the diversity of opinion and quite possibly the majority opinion is never represented by it's leaders. Just as Iran may have a usurper, we had one too. Vote fraud and shenanigans and crazy talk from our leaders. If only we could speak and hear directly without need for the idiot leaders. I hope you the Iranians prevail.

alot of Americans splashing around judgments here. yeah...some iranians have been burning our flag for several decades. fact is we deserve it. WE OVERTHREW THEIR DEMOCRACY and INSTALLED A DICTATOR. OF COURSE they burned our flag. maybe all you sanctimonious social critics should get out to vote more often HERE when lunatics like Reagan and Bush appear on our ballots instead of labelling Iranians for reacting to the things they do once they are voted into power.

Tom, Albuquerque wrote: Also I believe the Iranian Government is doing the right thing to quell these demonstrations.

May I ask, how can you sleep at night?

How utterly repulsive of you to say you support state murder and repression of men, women and children.

There but for the grace of God...

The people burning the American flag are the ones who are beating and killing their own people in Iran now. In America we are all too familiar with the awful power of stereotyping. Should we punish the greater part of Iran for the actions of a few? Never should freedom "hold on", never should it bow, never should it judge guilty those who are innocent. Humanity deserves better. And the American in me wants to help those who are beaten and repressed find a way to rise above their situation.

Iranians are not asking for guns and tanks. They're not asking for soldiers. They're asking for support, condemnation of a condemning regime, and looking for effective sanctions. It may be soon coming time for the free world to step up on this one and collectively take a step closer to world peace. As a moderate conservative, I have backed and supported Obama's careful wording over the past week. Unfortunately, his words are being twisted and used as motivation for his party regardless. Ahmadinejad has already said we will certainly not be up for friendship should this movement turn out for the worst. I'm anxious to see how the Obama administration progresses with Ahmadinejad's most recent speech.

To those Iranian protesters: we hear your cries, we see your fight, and we feel your pain. Let the light of Liberty keep your spirit, courage, and hope lit. The free world is in your corner, and the world's freedom is yours to claim.

how does the old saying go.. dont judge a book by its cover.. it can also be said, dont judge a people by their leaders.. even in our own country we are not all a bunch of bush loving foreigner hating cowboys..

it is time to realize that iran has depth, well beyond the ayatollah and sharia law.. now i am not saying military action should be taken by the united states.. but to not accept that their may be millions of iranians who do not fit the american hating stereotype is just ignorant.. they are millions of individual people who are each unique. some are more hardline, others want change, the iranian people have depth and to dismiss them otherwise is disgracefull

dont be ignorant,
dont be disgraceful,
have compassion,
accept reality.

easier said than done...

The US and the world needs that oil as much as Iran needs to export it. We can't just boycott oil.

Before the election I talked to a student just like this in Iran online. He said pretty much the same thing, short of how to sabotage the regime.

Just about everyone 30 and under doesn't like the situation their in prior to the election. He spent our first conversation apologizing for any rhetoric that has been fed to our outlets via Iranian government editing.

Such a shameless stolen election.

Hilary- read my post. It is Motakki that is blaming the west. Britain called him on the carpet for what he said. IRI wants to propagandize against the west. This is a very classic stance by the IRI. Blaming the west for all Iran's troubles. As I said, the Islamic Republic killed my family after torturing them. The call for freedom is a call for a separation of church and state-ie the destruction of the very underpinnings of the Islamic Republic. The Persian nation's foundations were built upon human freedom to choose their religion or worship-not to have it imposed upon them. Read about Darius and his bill of rights. It's translated into English in the Bible and in Homer.

If US was a real democracy, and American people were as free as they think they are, they would have been WAY more informed about their own history of crimes against Iranian people. They would have known what US has done to Iran and Iranian people. They would have understood why Iranians were (and many still are) angry with US. But the media here in US is shamefully manipulative. And American schools don't teach kids about the CIA arranged coup de tats around the world that hurts millions and millions of people sometimes for centuries to come.

People like JackieQ- are the kind of American 5 year olds who will NEVER grow up and never learn anything, ever. Brainwashed and uneducated people of America can't help anybody. Please mind your own business.

it is sad that you American Media are failing to rely on your conscience
You don't care Irannians, you care one thing, to destroy Iranians as you destroyed many contries in the world, ie, Iraq, Somalia, Afganistan, Serbia, Russia, Palestine, Campodia, Viatnam, Cuba, Chechnia, etc
You happend to be a proxy for only one country who has power over you.
There wasn't and will never be a one brave man/woman from USA, to stand truth, you can't and will never
YOu will always be a puppet for Israel, and if you don't kiss the ass of Israel you will never be elected in any office in US Governemnt
The world sees the truth about you , but do you dare to
Your kids been destroyed by Meida with disgusted programs, your parents were left in Nursing Homes, your brave men and women are helpless and jobless, certain people benefitting your resources
Your weapons been used to destroy innocent children, women and elderly people , do you dare to say anything,

Christine Happy

Tom in Albuquerque...Shame on you. The repression and oppression of these people is everyones business. Obama is not just standing by and letting this happen...believe me he is not jumping into the dog fight but rather picking his venue but don't think that he will just sit by and allow this injustice. You are probably someone who voted for Bush and McCain right? Figures!

This is not us burning your flag! They are the plain cloth militia, people from the body of the dictator regime! not people. Our slogan was "Mousavi, A new greeting to the world". Iranians want to be a part of the international community , we never burn a nation's flag!

Yes we should support them as we did the Hungarian Freedom Fighters, the Bay of Pigs, the Iraqi uprising post Bush 41, and every other minor internal show of discontent that we think is going our way. And once shots are fired, we're on the sidelines wringing our hands in angst.

Let's let them do what they have to do to throw over a 30 year dictatorship. It isn't likley to happen this round, ut the regime has been exposed for what it is. Why get the West led by the US actively involved in Iranian affairs? This will only give credence to the now patently false - and which no one believes - charges that the Iranian dissidents are pawns of Western powers.

If the West gets involved in any of the hare-brain interventionist schemes floating on this board and others, after the massacre of the dissidents as Western lackies, these same interventionist folks will recede into the woodwork thinking they'd done something noble for the Cause of Freedom, just like Wolfowitz, Feith, Rumsfeld and the like.

As a reminder the US and Briish governments can take credit for the 1953 coup that ousted Iran's then democratically elected government and placing the Shah in power, which started the whole mess in the first place. Why were they overthrown? Because Iran wanted to nationalize their oil industry instead of having most of the profit sent to US and Great Britain. Very few Americans are aware of this history, but ask most Iranians and they'll tell you all about it. Sure, there are always two sides to a story, but some of us may want to think about our government's past role before we start complaining about things such as flag burning and the price a country must pay for democracy.

My prayers go out to the iranian people and particularly the coraugeous young men and women that are risking their lives for freedom and change. God bless you all. Mohamed's thoughts represent the real Iran that wants change and equal rights for men and women and be part of the international community. Let's support them and do whatever we can to help them if we really are a nation that stands for freedom and human rights.

I see many who say that Iranians have hated Americans, burned US flags, etc so we should ignore their pleas of those who say they are repressed. I certainly do not advocate getting involved in a war as we are strained as it is and who can say it is our right to do so. However, we must realize that those who have proclaimed hate for America may be a smaller percentage than we realized. In addition, the current Iranian regime would love us and even their own people to believe we are hated by them as it gives them validation for their actions. There are also always new generations and new ways of thinking. If the majority feel as Mohammed does here then I think that we have to provide support in any way we can for their better interest and for ours.

FREE IRAN!

JackieQ- Brea -Ca: US flag-burning demonstrations are manufactured by the hardliner government. They bus in kids from school. Every principal has to hand over x number of students in order to stay out of trouble. The only people who go to them voluntarily are the wack-job psychopaths in this conservative regime.

The best thing for the US to do is keep its hand off and be very very careful about what it says. It can and must be on the side of the American values of freedom and democracy, but should NOT take sides. Whomever it takes sides with will have a giant target on them, be identified as traitors and will lose the power to lead.

I pray that the power of evil be broken over the country of Iran by the power of the prince of peace the only one who can change hearts, the true Son of God, Jesus the Christ......We are standing with you brave young people of Iran!

Romanians took Ceausescu (their dictator) and his government out in a week or so (Dec 1989) They really did not deen the Americans' help. You could take them out, too. It will help if the military is on your side. NO turning back – don't give up.

Tom, have you just begun following the situation? The Iranian protesters are not upset about their candidate losing in their election. They're upset that the election itself was rigged, which is basically proven in the latest report displayed yesterday on CNN with regards to voting irregularities. The presidency was the one tiny spot in their government where they had some say over the direction of their country, but even that turned out to be fraud with this latest event.

I originally thought non-intervention may be our best bet as well, but Ahmadinejad has made it clear that non-intervention will not benefit the US in the slightest. By his view, we have already interfered though we have done nothing.

The situation is very dynamic and volatile. Obama should proceed with caution, certainly, but at no point should he not proceed.

To John:

Saudi Arabia and all the other ARAB OIL DICATORSHIPS MATTER. They are the ones that US policy can must affect.Failure to do this...means your a hypocrit.

ANd by the way. Thank you for your tax dollars. They helped me pursue and obtain PHD in Political Science. Thanks a lot! haha

Have not we burned a few flags within our own borders? Or was that bras we burned? I can't remember. It is always refreshing to be reminded that the views of a general population does not always, if ever, reflect the views of those who govern/rule them.

I deeply appreciate what Mohammed has said. I am, however, disturbed by his dutiful following of "orders." "...as soon as I get any order, I will participate in any demonstration that they tell us." What if this "any order" is not in accord with the ideals the Mohammad holds?

I worry that Mohammed may not be critically reflecting for himself. He risks being duped by another agenda that may not be entirely forthcoming. His seemingly blind loyalty may contribute more to further discord than to his idealism.

I don't know. Should we step in ? We could be stepping into 'quicksand'. Mike in Montana

I think it's really interesting that so many people think it's our obligation to go in and somehow aid the protestors. Where were all of you during the outrageous human rights violations in Burma? What about in various places in Africa? I don't recall many calls for the US to get involved in places like Darfur and Myanmar. Now all of the sudden we've got GOP members crawling out of the woodwork to demand that we stand firm with the protestors. We've got Congress passing resolutions to declare our solidarity with these people. If the reason for this is human rights, why were there no similar resolutions passed when people in other countries have been oppressed in similar ways. I also find it ironic that so many of the people who now claim to love the Iranian people were ready to bomb them not so very long ago. What is happening in Iran is horrible, and my heart goes out to these people. I have no quarrel with the Iranian people. The Iranian people are by and large very generous, peaceful people who very much want to be part of the global community. It is not our place to get involved, however. We might be welcomed at first, but we would be hated later. I'm sure neo-cons and the hardline Israeli government would love nothing better than to see us get involved. It would make it so much easier to further their plans to subjugate Iran.

Also, what exactly would intervention look like? Military action? Sanctions? What? If people support some kind of military support, exactly how will we pay for that? We've heard quite a bit from the Republican party about how we need to curtail spending (it's funny how they weren't worried about that when we spent trillions on Iraq and Afghanistan, but whatever). Any kind of intervention in Iran isn't going to be free, you know. Sanctions have to be approved by various members of the UN. The US is not in charge of the world.

People need to wake up to the reality of the situation and stop being so hypocritical. If it's really human rights you're concerned about, then good for you. But ask yourselves if you have urged US intervention during other human rights violations elsewhere in the world. I'm going to assume the answer is no.

Show Obama he is wrong join facebook group

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/group.php?gid=101105806897&ref=nf

This is not our battle; this is not our time; this is the Iranians time. You must rage; if you truly want change you must take it yourself. Hold up the death of Neda as your Alamo. Fight for the change you so want.

Whats going on is a terrible thing..I dont think its right for inocent people to get hurt if their fighting for their rights

Jabli Izvesti June 22nd, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Barack Obama is absolutely right in ruling out any kind of intervention in Iran.The same demonstrators in Tehran,who now seek American intervention,could very well turn around and accuse the Great Satan of all kinds of high crimes.The anti-war groups in America should make it clear that America is no longer the world’s policeman.
--------------------------------

If you honestly believe we are not going to step into this situation, then you do not pay close attention to what is ACTUALLY going on. Of course we are going to step in. The "powers that be" in our government have been waiting for a reason to go into Iran. Why do you think this is all over CNN for American's and the world to see? If they didn't want us to see all of this, believe me we wouldn't be seeing it. This gives our government a nice way in with support from the people of the United States. I agree with doing something to help these people, but our government as ulterior motives. Inspite of their true reasons, Iranians need help and support. And it needs to happen sooner rather then later, before more young people are beaten and killed.

Does anyone read the comments first before repetitiously stating the same old flag rhetoric that has been intellectually dismissed?...jeez

IMPEACH OBAMA! TOTAL DIGRACE TO OUR COUNTRY..MORE PRO-ARAB THAN PRO-US. BRINGING US DOWN ONE DAY AT A TIME. MORON. MORE INTERESTED IN SOCIALISM THAN DEMOCRACY! I PRAY FOR THOSE IN IRAN WHO WANT PEACE AND DEMOCRACY..and, as for those who say the Iranian youth burned our flag? That is what the Iranian government WANTED you to see. These kids are the world's future. Pray that justice is served upon the bastards in their government now.

Connie, the French were chanting "down with America" right alongside. I don't think any of us should be so naive to think that even some of our European "allies" didn't have a hand in helping the Islamic Republic in it's anti-Americanism. I still want everyone to please heed the fact that Motakki is blaming the west for these recent protests and that the IRI is rethinking it's relation to Britain. This is a very important set of propaganda now coming from the IRI. If the US were to err on the side of caution-I think taking Britain's side in this would be of great benefit.

Iranians were the only ones in the middle east who had candlelight vigils out of respect for the American victims of Sept 11 attacks.

Obama is doing what he should.If their is going to be an Iranian Revolution is should be the Iranians then and only then should the United States take the position of backing the new reformists or else our immediate participation will be the extinctsion of the light of freedom that is beginning to 'twinkle'.

Tom You must be a moron or on some sort of drug. You think it's right what the Iranian government is doing? Are you out of your f-ing mind? let me guess you voted for Bush twice? Why don't you sit back in albuqurque and watch the cactus grow and let the educated people discuss these things mmmmmmmkay? This is a global problem, we already have North Korea to worry about with their nuclear capabilities and if we don't stop this oppressive regime we'll have another nuclear dillema on our hands.

This courageous young man's message must not be ignored. I am extremely disappointed–ANGRY –that Obama is not taking this opportunity to help the people of Iran, to safeguard the world and the region. His election to the office of president was a huge mistake in respect to American security and foreign policy. He is far too obsequious, bowing down to Saudi royalty (one of the worse human rights records in the world), and he is passive–afraid to make a stand. He watches the danger in the street that the protesters face and he makes a weak statement. I hope with all my heart that he will listen, that the other countries of the world will listen to this young man's message. Political experts are perplexed by Obama's timidity.

A flag it's just a symbol. The fabric of the American flag is not important It's the freedom that it represents that is important. A flag can be restiched or rebuilt, but freedom must be fought for and defended at all costs. All America should be behind these people 100%. Because in the end all they want is to be free to live their lives without fear of tyrannical rule. That is something every American should be able too relate to.

Have the last 8yrs shown you nothing? We should not view rhetoric from an established government as the voice of the people. What we are seeing now is the true voice of the people of Iran. The repressed voice hidden beneath the government rhetoric.

The desire for freedom is as basic as the need for food, water and shelter. No human should be without these basic necessities in life.

Long live the true voice of Iran. May freedom come to your doorstep sooner then later.

As an American, married to an Iranian, I can assure you that the MAJORITY of people within Iran, feel the same as Mohammed. They want freedom, they DESERVE freedom and I hope that they continue to fight for their freedom!

I see comments about the burning of US flags. Who do you think were burning the flags. It was the government not the people. The iranian ppl are not evil as they may have been portrayed. as you can see for the past week, they have been shot at, beaten up, arrested, killed, etc... But how have the ppl been responding? by throwing rocks. Have you seen the way ppl have been killed for just walking in a peaceful protest. The riot is by the government trying to make the ppl look bad.

WHY are we still selling them gasoline? It seems an obvious way to support the reformers

Tom, from AlBUQUERQUE, New Mexico

How dare you say such things. How can you look at yourself in the mirror and truely believe that killing innocent men and women is OK for a government to do. It is very obvious you support the regime and I highly doubt you are american.

Freedom for All - Not quite true but good enough. Having lived through the 60's I saw many of our own citizens shot down by police for what they believed in and have no doubt it could easily happen again.

The point, never take your freedom and liberty for granted.

I feel the pain of those iranians who feel that they want peace and democracy there current president is defintly headed toward a dictatorship. I do think we need to wait this out see what happens if it gets worse do something to help ease this tension. We do not need another war like we did Iraq invading countries doesnt solve issues but talking to countries 1 on 1 does.

I see so many of these posts (Jackie Q, Tom, etc) regarding staying out of "political" entanglements in this recent Iranian election and I can see we've become very "gun-shy" with our complicated involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq. But, the student Mohammed being interviewed Mohammed never asked for military involvement but only economic sanctions and political pressure. It's disheartening to see how many American's have forgotten our own history. Remember, America was founded on a revolution, when our forefathers rejected the "tyranny" of England's crown. We also benefited from the help of the French to establish this country. In return, we sent the bravest and best of our generation in the 1940s to stop facism and again in Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. It only makes sense that the Iranian youth's or for that matter any human being's desire for basic human rights should resonate with us Americans. I for one will give whatever political support I can for these youth and their search for social justice.

The Iran election is a true miracle. How else can one explain how the votes were all counted and the results given in a few hours. Approximately 40,000,000 votes to count with no computers. Try counting to 1,000 with about 1-1/2 seconds between each number. See how long this takes. Now estimate how many vote counters. It is obvious it would take between 12-24 hours to count the votes minimally. Iran's supreme leader says all the votes were counted in a few hours, I call that a real miracle. Perhaps the supreme leader can fly by flapping his arms quickly!?!

The people who are trying to drag the phrase "American troops should not be involved" are simply trying to scare Americans into a senario that wont happen......Unless these Iranian freedom fighters fail and then there is a good chance we will be pulled into a war with Iran down the line.

Some people here obviously want this Iranian guy tossed under the Obamajad bus being his plea for non combat help comes in the form of meddling that Obamajad said the Iranians didn't want....he just didn't say which side.

I am impressed with the articulation of Mohammad oregarding the situation in Tehran. Two things come to my mind however. One, when it is said that students are protesting, or students are organizing, I think this tends to misrepresents the situation. It somehow diminishes the magnitude of involvement of the everyday person, of the families, of the average business person, and the elderly that are involved in the demonstration. Care needs to be taken to not make it seem that the struggle of the Iranian people is marginalized to just "students"

Secondly, is it possible to confirm that this phone call or text message is really coming from this person in Tehran?

Now is the TIME we must support the reformist movement. They have at last found the courage to protest. Among the hardliners all are not bad. There are some hearts that can be converted to goodness.That is the key. Some people dont change. Some do change. We need friendly leaders, who are sensitive to the issues of the people and the their nation. So we USA must support and do whatever we can to bring these young generation out of PERIL. The world is watching and this cant go on forever. There is a STOP for every GO. There is a RED light for every GREEN light. So America this is the time to bring our iraninan Americans and support them. This is could be a catalyst for the fall of the MULLAHS.

Danny K,

Let the peopleof Iran ask the USA and Israel for help first.. If so then and only then should we help. They can no longer say, "oh help us but not these countries...", what would that serve? Freedom is freedom for all.

Danny

This is very hypocritical. When they can not handle their own problems, the only choice they have is the USA. Then if we were to intervene, they will hate us for be in their country and messing with their internal affairs. This is what happened in the past and this is what’s going to happened in the future. Please do not take me wrong, I feel the pain of the Iranians. But I do not think it’s our business to say anything about their country or their system because there would be a backlash even our intentions is to help their people.

Monica0220,
In earlier reports cnn stated that the Iranian government has bussed in supporters to Tehran to make it look like they have more supporters than they do. I doubt that this is the first time this tactic has been used.
Remember the media does not represent the full picture. The media can only show and discuss information that is collected or given to it.
Imagine that there were ten rallies, for lets say neo-nazi's, in ten different states in the U.S. Now if the only footage that is collected by foreign news agencies is video of those rallies the U.S is going to seem extremely racist even if the vast majority of the people in the U.S are not.
As for comparing the U.S Revolutionary War, many people seem to forget that we DID NOT win on our own. The French were extremely helpful. Of course that was because they didn't like the Brittish but the U.S doesn't like Iran. Some people believe that without the French's help the U.S would not have been able to hold out long enough.
As for soldiers being sent to Iran, nobody in the government has really stated that as an option. The Iranian student had the right idea. Iran requires foreign oil to funtion. If the government can't funtion then then it can't enforce laws or show it's legitimacy..

/* More than 85% of Iran’s gasoline is imported from foreign countries. */

Hey - does anyone know where the Iranians are importing their gasoline from? It's not the US. My first guess would be Russia, but I'm having trouble hunting down an answer on my own.

Arx, OK, take your freedom and love your dictator. You say we are not for freedom? In our simple lives, we are free. Your attitude indicates the hatred many Iranians feel for us here. While thousands pray for your innocent citizens, you come out and sprew more hatred for us. do you represent the majority of the Iranians, or are you just filled with hate?

We truly care about what you're going through. We have never burned your flag here. The difference is that hate is not the first thoughts out of our heads every day. It's wanting freedom and hoping the world can taste it, too. thanks for showing us what you stand for.

But... sounds to me like a setup... AMERICANS.. intervene... so the government can shift the blame to YOU.

BeefMaster,

You are an idiot. This situation is much more complicated than you're making it. Sure it'd be nice to just step in so easily and within a week we'd have the change we want, right? Yeah just that easy... Maybe if you didn't hate Obama so much you'd realize that as much as we'd like to step in its not that simple. I'm tired of people like you criticizing the President on this issue, if you don't like the way its handled then you can go to another country and make this country one person better. Thanks.

BeefMasterX:

Why didn't Bush go in there when he was mouthing off about Iran for 8 year???

GOP is looking for a Scapegoat!!!

Everyone would have to agree if Bush was president we'd probably be in Iran now freeing the people from a repressive regime... might not have been the greatest or best entry but we'd be in there....

I think the world should help not just the US and help the citizens of Iran stand up to this regime; especially if the statements from this young man represent the people of Iran... it would be a great step towards peace.

JackieQ- Brea -Ca – Remember Japan and Germany? Allies now. This is called repairing and moving on. My grandfather killed people in Japan, another in Germany, some in our family killed by same.

Iran is no longer an American enemy, wanting freedom, International community and support.

STOP THE HATRED!

Mohammad, most of America stands behind you in your quest for recognition from the international community. However, because of the historty between the US and Iran, American must remain cautious. It would be political suicide for the President to act otherwise. I have a brother who is stationed in Afghanistan and have served several tours in Iraq. Our family is tired of war, protests, suicide bombers, torture, etc. My thoughts and prayers are with the Iranian people.

I am throwing politics aside here. Regardless of my thoughts on the Obama administration, this is something I think we REALLY need to come together on. These people want freedom, and we need to do all we can to help them. We don't need to invade and if Obama is really seeking to have a reasonable dialogue with Iran, it won't come from the current administration. It must be with the new generation of freedom loving Iranians.

Most of us Americans support your struggle for democratic rights. I'm not sure what tack our government will take but our citizens are on your side. Hopefully there's something we can do – like trying to cut off gasoline exports to Iran as you suggested. Good luck!

The leaders only want you to see images of people burning US flags. They control the media there. I agree. The minority feel that way about the US there. The majority want freedom and peace!

I’m an Iranian born American who has spent the majority of his life in the US. What Americans think they know about the Persian people up to this point is the result of careful manipulation of the state media in Iran and the 24 hr news thirsty media in the West. Although, changing mess perception is extremely difficult, what we are finally seeing on televisions is the images of the actual ordinary people; their views and their struggle. The images of flag burnings and chanting of “Death to America” has always been a way of an illegitimate regime trying to keep on to power by isolating its people.

No one is asking for US troops on the ground, or the involvement of any military action.

All that is asked by Mohammad, to whom I have the deepest gratitude for his courage, is for the international community to support the people of Iran by knowing that the views shown by Iranian government does not represent the people.

Wake up folks, this is the 21st century and a new breed of determined peaceful people, who want inclusiveness and freedom has ushered in. As a new day in America dawned in November 2008 so can a new day dawn in other coutries around the world. We have devoted american blood, sweat,and money to senseless causes around the world for decades, now an opportunity presents itself for us devote our resources to rid Iran of its backward thinking government. These people need our support. If they are willing to die to effect change and get rid of the tyrants, then we should be willing to support them in any way possible to truly attain global peace.

Smart kid. He is absolutely right. Stop the flow of refined petrol and sanction Iran for crimes against its own people. The iranian revolution suceeded in part from a strike in the Iranian oil fields. If we were to sanction Iran by cutting off the supply of gasoline they might shift the focus from enriching uranium to refining oil. The French have to much at stake econimically for that to happen though.

Jake in LA, You are sailing without a sail or a rudder. The protesters in Iran are being propelled and encouraged by outsiders to disrupt and /or overthrow their Government. Musouvi is but a pun in this matter. The West have since 1953 tried to engage in Iran affairs and select its leaders. These protesters mean well but the majority of them are not well informed and are being swayed by emotionalism, like you Jake.

I truly sympathize with the Iranian people. But the fact of the matter is we are already in 2 wars, a deep recession, and a growing energy problem, we honestly cannot accept OR AFFORD another military action. I want to help these people as much as the next person but the truth is if we interfere that will only strengthen the Ayatollahs power and resolve. The people of Iran can do this on their own. Seeing the events of the past week I have absolute belief the Iranian people have the power within them to change their gov't for the better, they just need to keep believing in themselves and remember that an oppressive gov't is not one which is legitimized by it's own people and they have every right to do reform it!
Obama is right to show support for the Iranians but not to get involved. The best way to help is keep our internet services up and running to provide access for communication for these people, ie. twitter, facebook, and a host of other sites. This is why he asked Twitter not to do that update.
So everyone bashing Obama needs to get a grip on our current reality as well as the Iranians and get over your Bush era war-mongering since it will not solve anything just as the current wars we are in will solve nothing.

Wow, it's astounding how many people believe that Obama's "inaction" is indicative of weakness. You do realize that our founding fathers all felt very strongly that the US should not try to impose ourselves on other nations, right? Obama is right in this matter. Why do you think the hardliners in Iran are trying so hard to connect us with this? They WANT us to play right into their hands by throwing all of our support behind the protestors. Our involvement would only make things worse for the protestors. We would indeed be "meddling," and we would once again be seen as attempting to force ourselves and our customs on the Middle East. Iran is a sovereign nation. If there had been widespread protests after the 2000 or 2004 elections (or any election for that matter), would Americans want other countries to come in to put things right? I seriously doubt it.

Also, anyone who believes that democracy will rule if the protestors prevail is seriously naive. The Iranian people should have their voice heard, for sure, and it does appear that the elections were somehow fraudulent, which is unconscionable. But let's not pretend that if Ahmadinejad is ousted, Iran will suddenly be a thriving democracy. It will still be a theocracy. People who think otherwise don't seem to wholly understand the situation.

I'm not one to speak about lying to the American people, but why does the Iranian police force spell out "POLICE" in english and they are in Iran?

All you clowns ripping Obama....What's all the concern about the Iran situation....I thought it wasn't foolish to be considered a citizen of the WORLD!!....

What do you want Obama to do....What did Bush do for 8 years???

The same people we see shooting and beating people are the ones burning the flags and chanting death to America.

Same as the "official" stream of information coming out of Iran right now.
17 people killed.

Bull.

How many people said stay out of Germany?

just curious – why dont you have a share link so that we can easily share this article and the comments via twitter?

If you read history, US has twice intervened with regime changes in Iran. Once in 1950s and second in 1979, where they tricked Shah into leaving the country and instead it back burned on them when the hostages were taken. People never voted for an islamic regime, Khomeini declared himself Supreme Leader AKA Dictator AKA God. This is a clerical regime, these people are uneducated, insane individuals who in the name of a religion have supressed people of Iran. US again has a chance to not intervene but deliver a clear message that says we support FREEDOM for people of Iran. Freedom in Iran means peace in the middle east.

Unfortunately, I think "the establishment" in Iran would use western involvement as an opportunity to scapegoat America/the west and pretend like it is America who wants them to admit their election is a farce, rather than the Iranian people. The way things are, who is going to take them seriously when they say that when it is obviously their OWN citizens who are protesting and whom they are brutalizing?

But that doesn't mean my heart isn't breaking for the Iranian protestors who are courageously standing up for their rights. Hell, if I lived in Iran, I'm sure I would be pleading the world for help too. Please stay strong, Iranians. We are praying for you. You are so brave.

Let Adrian Pasdar become an ambassador for the Iranian people. He is a hero after all. His father was an Iranian immigrant and cardiac surgeon.

Americans would be amazed if they actually went and had coffee at an Iranian cafe. These are progressive, educated people who indeed light years ahead of the oppressive regime they have to deal with day after day. It's a hip, young population that may embrace Islam, but also embraces the ideas we espouse here in America: worship your G-d in peace. Let us worship ours, likewise. And come Saturday night, let's tip a few beers – despite prohibition – and enjoy a little rock n' roll...or hip-hop, as the case may be. We Americans should fully support the uprising against the Islamo-fascists. Someday, Iran will be a great trading partner in goods and tourism.

I will stand with anyone who wants FREEDOM! I don't care about the past, I only care about today – people change!

I have long believed that the only way to get a grip on terrorism is for women and educated young people to scream bloody murder against the tyrrany they live with. that's what they are doing.

Listen to them!!!!

wats happening in iran is also a scene displayed in Malaysia, where the ruling govt has used force, extortion to be in power.

The Prime Minister – Najib – has a murder charge, for blowing up a Mongolian woman with explosives and he is ruling the country. He has refused to testify and the the juducuary is in tatters.

Read: the malaysianinsider.com

Sad, but thats the state of many muslim countries, who in the name of Islam, commit crimes on its own people, and are involved in big time corruption and what not.
These countries are at par with Zimbabwe, where the Devil rules

US Citizens don't have such a short memory that we have forgotten the images of students burning American flags or footage of 52 blindfolded hostages held for 444 days by students that raided the US Embassy (with the support of the Iranian government I might add). All this because of the US chose to get involved.... and back then we couldn't "tweet" or "blog". 66 million people live in Iran. A few HUNDRED protest that the election was rigged. No real proof is offered, despite the simple fact that if 11 million votes were rigged proof should abound. This is a storm in a teacup pumped up by the media and President Obama has been wise to show restraint.

"But you use to burn our flags on television. Remember?"
I seriously doubt Muhammed has ever burned an American flag. I know the time period you're referring to. It is possible during the beginning of the Hostage Crisis in 79 he had grandparents involved in protests against the U.S. but this was 30 years ago, several generations apart for Muhammed. Khomeini back stabbed and lied to the people over there with his promises in the beginning for a democratic government.

"the streets of Iran are flooded with protesters yelling ‘Death to America’, ‘Death to American’s’, and burning of the American flag."
Much of that is staged presentation for the media. The people that do this, if you watch your tv you will see that they always do this at the same location – it appears to be inside an open-air mosque at Tehran University. When they chant they know the camera is focused on them. Many of these "Death to America" chanters ARE PAID TO ACT. It's True. I've read about it in a book called Persian Mirrrors by a NY Times columnist who has covered in Iran since 1978. Many of them chant half-heartedly, they are given freebies, some are paid, most are given a free meal to participate in the chanting of "Death to America."

I am standing in solidarity with each and every Iranians who are fighting for their human rights no matter what issues between america and iran shows,they are fighting for the same rights that martin luther preaches about and i stand by them in solidarity.

Can someone tell me why these photos always have English markings in them> Police written in English>Where is my vote written in English. Seems strange to me.

Bad idea for the US to interfere. Let these folks take care of their own battles. Stepping in to help them do what? Kill the bad guys? Once we get in there we will never get out....more dead people, civilians and military....we NEVER have tried to just "stand back and watch" when we see a threat to us, that's a different story. I think for once, the president is smart....let them earn their own democracy...we did.

Infowar against Iran
http://www.infowars.com/iran-faces-greater-risks-than-it-knows/

another examplet of CIA Operation Mockingbird
secret Central Intelligence Agency campaign to influence domestic and foreign media

CIA, Iran and the Election Riots

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRwUZ-u6KFo&feature=player_embedded

Israeli Effort to Destabilize Iran Via Twitter

http://www.godlikeproductions.com/forum1/message817610/pg1

Mohammad, I am sure your message is welcomed by most freedom loving Americans and the rest of the world. Keep up your work. You can count on Americans when it comes to promoting freedom around the world. It is Essential to our survival and best deterrent (better than nukes we have) that can guarantee peace and security for all of us. Don't be discouraged by some postings above with extremist views. It may be surpirsing to you, but we DO have extremists in U.S. as well. They are also free to post their opinion. Most people with right mind just ignore them.

http://bit.ly/8pc1T

Every official at every level of the US government swears to uphold the Constitution before officially assuming their role. It would be a true "Morning in America" if they actually read it and let it inform their conduct in office. We had our revolution. Let Iran have theirs, and let's take a page from "friends" China and Russia's playbooks and do something in OUR national interest for a change. Let's ditch the obsession with the affairs of other nations and tendency to meddle that started with Eisenhower's Dulles brothers, went on steroids with the Kennedys and persisted with virtually every administration since. No more Republican "Shining City" crap, no more Clinton/Gore social work-by-force, no more "Leader of the Free World" posturing. No more. Get our military back in our own hemisphere, retaining the ability to obliterate any enemy while we mind our own business and see if we can salvage a country successive generations will want to live in.

It is the same old garbage. Everyone hates the U.S. until their liberties are being infringed upon and then they come crawling for help singing our praise. Well, this time Iran you are on your own—the same goes for you France. You cannot love America only when you need something.

Why does he want the UN impose more sactions against his own government? That would only hurt the citizens like himself... doesn't make any sense...really leads me to believe this person has been paid as the responses really do sound fake.

No way America gets involved without U.N. approval this time. Basicly, if the west gets involved like so many people are asking for then it is for the same reasons as them being in iraq....think about it. Futhermore Iraq's government at the time was much more tyrannical.

When and if this gets brought before the U.N. many countries will use this forum to harbor anti-american/british sedemit like always. Nothing will be accomplished. You can't be pro western involvement in Iran but be anti westeren involvement in Iraq. Its a trap set for the west, no matter what they decide they will be wrong. I know its a hard time for the people of Iran but pain is usually part of victory.

To the misinformed commentators here: it was the pro islamic government people who burned American flags 30 years ago and ohter times since then, not the opposition who would like to change this government.

Call me a wuss, but I cried when I saw Neda murdered on the streets of Tehran. And for what?......a peaceful protest. My heart goes out to them.....but beyond words....I am not sure there is much we can do. And we must choose those words carefully else the ruling clerics use them to denounce the protesters as "American Lackeys".
My heart hopes for the best for them but my brain says it will be crushed and crushed violently. CNN has never been my primary news source but I commend them on their coverage.

I read here many posts asking why Obama is not doing anything, you all realize that once US takes a side there is no way back? And if for some reason US do not succeed in helping the democracy in Iran that will bite us back? It is a tough situation and has to be tough thoroughly as it may send a wrong message throughout the Muslin world. Right now I think that we can help protesting and when the right time comes the world should do something but don’t put on Obama’s hands the decision to go there and end this thing, it is a global responsibility, EU, Asia, Americas, ONU, everybody.

Our prime purpose in life is to help others. And if you can’t help them, at least don’t hurt them. The only hole that vengeance has ever filled, resides in the ground, six feet deep.

America, Iran and all of humanity understand these basic principles, because we are all the same, worldwide. To give and receive Love, respect and dignity; these are the most basic of human needs. These things above all else are what drive our passions. And because we strive for all these things so passionately, it is sometimes so hard to see through the agendas of men and women who desire power and compliance and are willing to use your Love for your brothers and sisters against you.

Whether you live in the United States, Iran, Iraq or South Africa, we all understand what it is like to feel humility and pain; to have our voice go unheard; to feel weak in the face of hatred and powerless in the wake of the powerful. In humanity, there are no party lines; there are no boundaries between countries; there are no government agendas; there are no races. There is you and the world you see. By believing that the world is split into so many different countries, religions and beliefs, men and women who desire power are able to use that belief to get you to act or feel a certain way. Don’t buy into it. The only line that divides us is the line we choose to make. Rub your feet in the sand and remove that line from your heart.

You are good, you are able to give as well as receive Love, and above all you are the hope of the entire world.

It’s all been said countless times before, by mean and women smarter than us. We just need to listen with our hearts to understand.

In the end, we are all the same. Our views may be different, but we are not. And whether you believe in Buddha, Allah, Jesus Christ or no one at all, in the end, it is you who will need to justify your own actions to make peace with this world. Make the best and greatest impact you can, while you can. If you can make a change, do so. Do not worry about your neighbor’s views towards you, do not worry about being ostracized in your political party, do not worry about those who will hate you because of it. Be the person you were born to be. Lead through Love and other will respect you for it; whether they follow your example or not. Do what you can, because this life is not a dress rehearsal. This is not a movie. This is your life. Live it and let humanity be that much better because you did.

My thoughts and prayers go out to those who have lost so much, by their willingness to stand out. One life lost has been too much.

You must be the change you wish to see in the world. ~Mahatma Gandhi

Peace to you and your families.

Minneapolis, Minnesota.

I think something is being missed here......many other comments have touched on the fact that when the Iranian regime has a problem with the US, they fill their public area's with USA flag burning and banners with anti US slogans and shouts of "death to america"...it's true, we have all seen these images on our screens from the news, but in the first few days of the big rallies after the "election" in Iran, the Iranina government was bussing in hundreds of people from all over the country to hold their own Pro government rallies to make it appear as if there is a majority of Iranians who accept the package they are trying to sell, and those are the images displayed on the official Iranian news network and broadcast to the world....

If they are doing that now, don't they do the same thing with the US flag burning rallies to make it seem as if the Iranian people are all anti western?

The Iranian government is a dictatorship and has been all along, Amadinejad is nothing but a puppet of the "supreme leader" and he dances to the tune for them. They pick the candidates that they think are worthy and let them run for office and they pick the winners who will support their policies. In truly FREE elections anyone can run for office and the people pick the candidates who represent them.

In Iran, the entire election process is a farce from the get go, there is nothing free or just about it.

The people of Iran have obviously grown tired of being TOLD who will represent them, I think the west has an obligation to help free the people of Iran from oppression and dictatorship, we should not believe everything the regime broadcasts on the news as it is mostly propaganda and a pack of lies.

If there was anything legitimate about this election, the Iranian government would not be shutting down the cell phone service of the entire country, shutting down the text messaging and cutting off web sites that help the people communicate and ejecting foreign reporters and banning all news casts of what is taking place...they don't want the world to know what is really going on in Iran.

Please REJECT the Iranian regime, and SUPPORT the people of Iran

For all those people who feel angry because Iranians burn down their flags and chat “Death to America”, “Death to Israel” let the world know: it’s not us. It’s not normal Iranians. We do not hate you. We do not burn your flag. Iranian government lies to you. They show disgusting images of thousands of Basiji forces who chant “Death to America” and burn down your flag. All those people, thousands of them, are PAID to do this. Basiji forces who burn down your flag, are the same people who kill us on our streets. You are upset that they burn your flags? They burn our bodies, and the world does not know how upset we are.
What can we do about it? We can’t do anything. For 30 years, we have been in isolation, and when we want our voice to be heard, they fire us, arrest us or even kill us. You witnessed it by your own eyes.
Just know this. It’s not us. We believe that people of the world (Americans, Jews …) are our friends, sisters and brothers. But we can’t express it. Let the world know that we do not hate you. You must let the world know.

Stop telling these people they don't deserve our help or sympathy because "some" Iranians danced after 9/11, burn our flag, call for our "death", held hostage dozens of our people a long time ago. All this is true but most of the protesters are young with different ideals. Most probably were not even born during the hostage crisis. Even if they did some of the other things, it was likely at the encouragement of adults, parents, and such. Also, people do change. How can we turn our backs on sincere cries for help? Why do Iranians look to the U.S. for a solution? Because deep down inside they know who and what we really are.

I refreshing and unique perspective from someone within a very repressive country. I am exicted to hear this kind of talk coming from a place where choice is not an option.

I don't know if the international community has the right or responsibility to intervene, as much as we may like to help, is it not for the Iranian people to do?

Freedom cannot be given, it must be earned. We tried to "free" the people of Iraq, and look what we got for it. Years of bloodshed and untold violence.

I hope they can be sucessful and topple the governement, but I don't think it is right for the USA to do it for them. The will of the people must be concieved from within.

I am so afraid for these people. Proud to see them stand up for what they believe in but afraid that they will all be slaughtered for their dissent.

Guy could tell truth, Guy could not tell the truth. Serious problem.. Like all the time when getting Information about Iran these days.

Make sure you checked the phone call for authenticity...of course CNN is part of the mainstream media with no credibility...so I wouldn't put it past them to get fooled

I read all these comments which have little relation to what Mohammed asked. He asked that other countries help through sanction, particularly not exporting oil from Iran. He never asked for American to send their troops there!!!

Extremists are the price for true freedom of speech. In my country Denmark, we have extremists from all sides of the political spectrum. Leninist, Stalinist, National socialists. We generally ignore them, by being informed and alert. We recognize their right to speak, and having parties. This is the terms of having a TRUE democracy. The Iranians that protests wants a TRUE democracy. Not a rigged election that keeps their oppressors in power. Thats not just the Iranians fight. Thats the fight of all that believes in TRUE democracy and rights of freedom.

America has enough problems of its own. Where is FRANCE?
They want to be a super power, let them step up to the plate.

As a father who lost a young son with Leukemia,my heart goes out to the young girl who was killed(NEDA) and her family in which I know their grief and to all those who lost their lives. (there are tears in my eyes as I write this!)The good people in Iran only want what we take for granted in the west. The world can't stand by and watch this slaughter of innocent people. All the countries of the world should and must severe all ties with this BRUTAL Government in Iran. Yes the world is watching but that is not good enough.These people need action and support from the free world.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL IN IRAN FOR STANDING UP FOR WHAT YOU DEARLY BELIEVE IN AND DESERVE!

Who cares let them fight it out amongst themselves. America is not the worlds fu ck ing babysitter!

US involvement would be a huge mistake.

Iran has hated us for so long because we orchestrated an overthrow of their democratically elected government back in the 50's which resulted in the installation of an incredibly brutal ruler. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past and expect different results.

As painful and heart-wrenching as it is to watch on TV, these people must win their own freedom or it will have no value.

If we help – there will always be those who say it was America and not the "will of the people."

Every swing of the policemans baton is actually another nail in their own coffin. The world is watching...

To the people that can't understand why an Iranian protester would write in English on his posters of protest: Can you all read farsi ? Of course they write in English as well, they want their words to ring out to the world as well.

This is a twofold argument. On one side there is the premise of not interfering with the internal affairs of a sovereign nation and on the other hand there is the reality that there are many thousands of people in Iran who want change and want to become a modern society. I mean can you really blame them, they live in a society where women are viewed as inferior and thoughts different to the status quo are viewed as radical and defiant.
We intervened in much the same way in Vietnam and it bought us an almost decade long war at the cost of over 50,000 American lives. I think that if we can do anything it would be assist the protesters by providing training via Spec Ops teams and Green Berets and help to undermine the Iranian government much the way we did with the Soviets in Afghanistan. This way Ahmadinejad and the the Ayatollah get what’s coming to them and he hands of the United States are clean and we are in the position to become a very good friend to a blossoming democracy in the middle east.

From Berry Woods:

"There is a better way to fight, and it doesn’t involve acting like animals, and making chaos and having by-standers getting killed.

A government reflects its people, if Iranians really want change, they can do so by uniting and peacefully working together while following and respecting the laws of the nation.

Don’t let your country turn into another Iraq or Somalia, civil war will not do any good and will make the situation worse.

–Woods."

What world do you live in?!? Wake up! The world isn't all hugs and kisses like in Berkely, CA. Yeah, we really blew it with the American Revolution. If we had only sat down and peacefully engaged in dialogue with the British, realizing our nationhood would have been delayed by only a century or two.

People wake up! These left-wing peaceniks have no concept how the real world works. Put one of these Islamic extremists in a room with you with a gun and he'll put a bullet in your head. He will have no regrets and sleep like a baby at night..

Regimes in power with little popular support will resort to extremes to maintain their positions. Only resistance will bring about change.

Fight on Mohammed!!

"The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." -Thomas Jefferson

Don't worry, the United States would not take any action that they believe would not also benefit US.

The overwheming majority of the American people support the Iranians peoples fight for change. Our hearts were bleeding like the blood running from Neda's face when we saw the results of some coward's bullet from a rooftop. Unfortunately, our government and other governments around the globe are going to do little to nothing to help the Iranian people. The Iranian people must rise up on thier own. There will be a huge amount of sacrafice, but it's the only way. May God be with you.

the last time we encouranged revolution, it was to the shiites of basara, george h. left them out twisting in the wind as sadam slaughtered them. are we willing to help overthrow this government if invited in?
probably not since W has us tied up in Iraq and Afghanistan. if we had taken care of business in Afghanistan in 03 before bolting to Iraq with no game plan, we would be in a much better position to help militarily, and that's what it will take to defeat the republican guard and whoever else backs the crazy religous zealots.

Hi Mohammad – this is an incredible opportunity for young Iranians to overthrow the Islamic Regime and bury everything it stands for. Rise up, yell, be brave and know that this is your ONE MOMENT to make REAL change not only in Iran, but to squash the regime's proxies,Hezbollah and Hamas.

@Susan:
the reason Arab countries are silent because in essence, they're always wary of Iran and the Iranian regime. Remember: Iran is not an Arab country, and moreover it is a majority Shiite nation. So the Gulf Arab states don't necessarily feel a common link with them culturally. Further, Iran is a nuclear state - and they feel threatened by that, but are afraid of saying anything about it for fear of isolating the hardline elements within their societies who may quietly sympathise with the Iranian regime's ideals. So while the Iranian regime keeps up with it's anti-Israel rhetoric and continues to live in isolation, they don't care because they can keep selling oil to it and not worry about any radical backlashes from the Mullah's back home.

It's funny how everyone seems to think they're right in this matter, when the fact is, there is no 'right' or 'wrong' decision. No matter what the U.S., or E.U., or U.N. chooses to do to assist if anything, it will be wrong to someone on this vast planet.

The United States cannot appease everyone all the time, we are choking ourselves with political correctness in our own country, and too stupid to realize it; we do not need to be involved in other conflicts. I have to admit that President Obama is doing exactly what he should be doing . . . nothing, at least for now.

Some of you have claimed this Mohammed could be a paid person to shout what we want to hear, that could be true, but it could also be he very well is an Iranian crying out for help . . . I have seen one cry for help so far on twitter from Iran, I would love to be able to sit and blog and comment all day and watch to see where this goes. However, I have work to do and cannot possibly do that, in order to monitor how many cries for help we receive. We all have our own opinions and voices, as should the Iranian people; after all that is what 'freedom' is all about, and the blog sites and comment postings are a part of that freedom.

Yes, my heart aches for these people, I watched the video on youtube.com of the young teen being killed up close. It's gruesome, it's horrifying, and it's insane that anyone in this world could tolerate such dictatorship. Of course these people want out of their oppression . . . who wouldn't? However, we as 'free' Americans cannot give that to them, they must organize themselves, and take back what is theirs.

I saw a comment from someone telling to 'turn the tables' on the Basij, absolutely, I agree. Take control, I also saw on certain blogs that I will not mention (in order to keep the Iranians profile low) that the Iranian opposition is quite intelligent in ways of confusing their enemy and protecting themselves from further harm, or at best lessening it.

For now it is best we stop slamming hatred towards the people of Iran, and let them know we support their fight for freedom. However, sit back and be patient; and for Pete's sake get off the Presidents ass . . . would you like to be in his position right now? Really think about that . . . I highly doubt it!

JackieQ ... tsk tsk, I think no more needs to be said.

absolute rubbish.
why would a muslim want foreign forces to intervene in Iran. This is just a work of US to prove to others that iranians want them to be there. Ofcourse the drama is set inorder to steal oil and kill iranis
over 250 000 iraqis were killed by US soldiers in the past 5 years. No iranians want US to be in Iran

SANCTION is not the solution, it is not going to affect the leaders of Iran, it will only target you and me the people of this country.
The government won’t care if we are poor and hungry, the will remain in power; it is much easier to rule a poor Iran.
If we didn't have the money to provide computer and internet to Iranian civilian, imagine how much easier it would have been for the government to suppress this people.
Please don't say that, we need to target the people who are in charge in Iran, not the structure of the government itself.
SANCTION IS NOT A SOLOUTION, IT HELPS THE GOVERNMENT TO SURVIVE AND SUPPRESS MORE.

To all of those that mistake the actions of the paid demonstrators of the regime in Iran over the years such slogans against the U.S. and burning flags etc., Isn't it time that instead of accepting that regime's propaganda you start seeing the real people on the streets of Iran fighting for the cause of democracy and freedom? Now you see on your TVs, and internet the atrocities of this regime in real-time, but people of Iran have been living through this for three decades. That government has never been of the people, by the people and for the people. Change of this regime in Iran will bring back the stability and peace to the Middle East and the world.
CNN please stop having interviews with supporters of the regime like the filmmaker that was portraying the basijis as nice people on Saturday. Or Ms. Amanpours interviews with her University of Tehran student that was a speaker for the regime.
Please listen to the people of Iran.
An Iranian-American

I am very surprised that America declare the crusade against Sunnis but they are forgiving Shia. America bombed Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, Iraq, Over throw Nwaj Sherif and replace him by Dictator Musaraf. Remove Saddam and replace him by Shia. Now why they can not bombed this evil shia empire.

[...] June, 22, 2009 - nicedeb An Iranian student protester from Tehran spoke with CNN's "American Morning", this morning, and made this passionate plea for help from the US and world communities: Mohammad: [...]

Anyone that will not step up for the universal right for Freedom don't deserve it themselves.

@Susan:
and further, many Arab countries don't have elections - so it would be hypocritical for them anyway to say that people deserve to be represented properly...that would pretty much cause a backlash among the liberal populations back home.

Has the UN even made a statement. This is why the percecuted around the world don't call on the UN. I say we stop sending in our UN dues and divert those funds to help the young people of Iran.

Should we, as Americans, fight every fight in the name of democracy?

It’s true that the Iranian people protesting this election are not the same who created this mess in 1979, but if there are that many people who are dissatisfied with their current government, they can unite and fight their own fight.

Supposedly, as portrayed by our own media, there are plenty of people who want a change. I believe these people should OWN their decisions and be responsible for their implementation. By looking for others to facilitate the change, the door is opened for accusations of corruption and the possibility of expecting favors to be returned; which then can undermine the new government’s legitimacy.

Yes, the election results seem skewed, but can we be sure that Moussavi won and will actually be supported in the long term? I don't see Moussavi leading, but rather covertly sending his supporters to bleed on the streets in the name of reform. Can we be sure he's willing to step up, govern and implement change if the coup happens? Can he stabilize a torn nation and be the uniting force to heal Iran? Before we even think of assisting a coup, we should be assured of its future success. After all, it’s not just the initial help we need to finance but the seemingly endless stabilization that comes after. In Iraq, we helped and it seems to me it's been a money pit and a millstone around our necks.

So, no, I don’t believe we need to spread democracy whenever the opportunity arises. Not only will we fall even further into bankruptcy, but the legitimacy of the new administration and its success will be compromised by the very help that would bring it into existence.

Jake from LA

If you're so educated, why are you so quick to pass wide reaching judgment? I agree with you that Tom is wrong about the matter, but why do you suggest that all Bush supporters feel the same way? I'm educated, voted for Bush, but I also believe in human rights and pray for the Iranians and hope that the US, currently led by a democrat, does something.

Bush tied Obama's hands with respect to Iran. Because his designation of Iran as part of an "Axis of Evil," nothing ANY American President says carries any weight. Obama cannot do much, otherwise it would be perceived as being "American meddling" in Iran's affairs. Mir Hossein Mousavi, at least last week, did not want American assistance because the reformist movement did not wanted to be perceived by Iranians as being "run by Westerners."

My American friends. I am an Iranian and been lived in Denmark in the past 23 years.. A real Iranian never hate America. In 50 years until Jimmy Carter, Iran & US had great relationship. The shah (former King) was a dictator too (But Not like this regime), and people started the revolution in IRAN by Ayatollah Khomeini, I can describe him as a psychopath and genius in Politic and less an Islamist (at the beginning anyway ), In 2 years everything was fine and a new dictator was born. We trusted the Ayatollah Khomeini to give us the democracy. But he stole it from us. In order to survive he began to create enemies and US and Israel was the best candidates because they were the best friend of Shah and were since then, Not for us Iraninan but for those brainwashed, analphabets, which Iran unfortunately has 6% of those who also has all the guns and ammunitions. You saw it yourself in the Internet what they did to Neda,. But what you have seen nothing. They are going to kill more if you hear 5 died it means 50. Bushes Biggest mistake was he should have attack Iran instead of Irak. And believe me People would open the gates for you and no American soldier would be dead by road bombs and they did not have to stay so long because All we want is to get rid of this regime, who has no mercy for thier own people. So let all pray together. Back in 9/11 we all became American, I think now we should all become Iranian to get rid of these Islamists and “Ahmadi Nejad” the chimp. I pray for that day to see your flag close to ours in Iran. So I hope Obama send a smart bomb to Ahamadi Nejads and Ayatollas home and free 65 Mill people. We will send the rest (the 5 mill Ahmadi nejad followers) back to their villages to grow carrots.

Iran is changing. I admit that I've hated Iran, but it's clear my hatred has been based on the voice and actions of an individual that no longer truely represents the Iranian people. I'm looking at Iran in a whole new light, and I wish them well. I understand that there probably won't be a regime change in the near future, but change is coming, and it's in the best interest of all of us. Good luck to the people of Iran in finally achieving a true democracy.

As for the US getting involved, I think we need to stay out of this unless it gets much more serious. It's up to the Iranians to defend their own freedoms from their own country, they're very capable.

No way! US stay out. These people need to fight for themselves if they want peace and democracy. No more intervention. when they get control and through out the supreme leader we can help but until then it's their fight. we cannot do this again, invade another country where people openly hate us.
we need to keep out until these people decide what they want to fight for and do it themselves.

The U.S. can't do anything. We're broke.
However I do believe our leader could be more vocal in his support of democracy.
I think the reason is he's silent, is that he's not all that fond of democracy himself.

For those of you who say the Iranians burnt the American flag, I say to you that we have Americans burning our flag. The Iranians that did so were few just like the Americans that did the same. The common Iranians want peace with the world. Let's not forget them. Let's make sure they get their peace and freedom as well.

Young people in Iran did not ask for help from US.

It's the Republicans who want to take advantage of the current situation and get their dirty hands on Iran resources...we don't forget 1953 !!!

Freedom for Iran, by the people of Iran!!!!!

Down with the Mullahs and Islam...

@JackieQ- Brea -Ca please read your history and you will understand why people hate America .... they hate the American Government not the people.

@ JackieQ- Brea -Ca

You cannot blamed all the iranians for the actions of very few...
It is unfair to point your finger and said what you said about burning the flag....

Usually people who do things like burning flags are the most ignorant and poor and also the nosiest....

sorry
thats the voice of someone paid by CNN. No muslim wants US involvement after what the americans have done in Iraq. Even minor boys were raped by female US soldiers in abu gharib prison. Americans , stay in US . we dont want you .also Moussavis` supporters are mostly KURDS and not iranians. His main supporter is US. obviously , US wants iran`s oil and Moussavi is the gateway for that resource

JackieQ- Brea -Ca June 22nd, 2009 9:48 am ET

But you use to burn our flags on television. Remember?

---

@JackieQ.....fellow Brea dweller are you kidding me? We see pictures of Iranians burning the American flag because their news is FILTERED dont you get it? The whole reason these people are speaking out now is because thier voices cannot be stopped. Sure there is a large portion of Anti American Iran but you are seeing the Minority rising up against the Majority and thus changing roles. What do you mean 'We support you by staying out of your way? Is that an appropriate response you would like if I was watching you get your @ss handed to you while I was watching? wow sir or madam...unbelievable comment there. Any NO i do not suggest the only alternative is invading either. Its not that black and white yet either.

All the dishonesty coming from people in response to a plea from an Iranian guy who simply wants some assistance in not recognizing an illegitimate government via sanctions and no trade has somehow turned into a MOVEON.ORG fest.

The difference Bush and Obama in this current state of affairs is this.

Obama will no way in Hell send in troops.
Bush would have no way in Hell sent in troops.

Obama congradulated the rulers for "robust debate" in their win, while at the same time the same rulers we're murdering Iranians in the street.
Bush would have stood along side of those seeking freedom, he would have led the way in this regard as opposed to following Europe.

At least Iranians who have the capability of reading these posts can judge who the kooks are and people who genuinely wishes them well being their success can change our future for the better as well.

What we are seeing is a military coup d' etat in Iran. The "official" election results are fraudulent. See videos of men filling out multiple Islamic Republic of Iran presidential ballots, using other people's social security numbers at http://jigsawnovich.blogspot.com

CNN, please leave and let Iran solve their own voting issues. You reported and we get it. Now you are percieved as meddling..the last thing we need to do as a country,who they hate, is meddle in their affairs.

I'm reading a lot of comments from people sayinghow the US should intervene in Iran, arm the protesters or even send in troops!
Haven't we seen where that has gotten the US in the past!? Can anyone say Bin Laden!?
I was born in N.Ireland and lived there for the first 22 years of my life. I have first hand experience of terrorism. I also saw the results of guns and bombs FUNDED by Americans sympathetic to the poor little IRA, trying to kick those big bad Brits out of Ireland.
The worst thing the US can do at this point is get involved in Iran. If this revolt is meant to overthrow the government, then just let it happen. Stop trying to police the world! It doesn't work.
Obama is right to keep quit on the topic of Iran. Let the people of Iran fight the current regime themselves.

that's a small minority with the flag burning

Pro-American, Anti-American, that isn't the issue. What is the issue is that a country who wishes for change, and I'm not talking a campy post Obama "change", I mean a real policy change to their fundamentals is being denied by an extreme conservative nut. This show the majority of Iranians do not support Ahmedenajad or his outdated policies or insane beliefs. They want basic civil rights for their peoples.

They want to become a better nation that is respected in the international community, can't we support that?

Of course the U.S. wouldn't be free if the French navy hadn't come to our rescue to help us fight off the British. It helps to have powerful supporters.
The world will sit this one out.
It's learned it's lesson on getting involved in middle east affairs.

What's happened in past, stays in past. I believe they wants change for better future, if any of you don't believe that, then can anyone tell why those people are in pain or even end up die for either freedom or civil right?

As you seen what the Supreme Leader said, Americans are their enemy, why are we their enemy? even now?

Honestly, I forgot the word "Iran" long time ago until the Iran president start light threat, insult, and bad mouthing a lot, that's when the word "Iran" come back in my mind. Looks like Iran president wants America to stay enemy to Iran.

That's all I needed to hear...

No western wants US involvement in Iran either. You need to earn your freedom like we did more than 200 years ago. However we applaud all the people who want to express their feelings and protest for what they believe. If there is anything you could learn from the US is that one. Freedom of speach, democracy and tolerance are the key for a great and powerful society.

My thoughts with the Iranian people and everyone who wants to be free and be able to talk without fear to be punished just because he or she does not agree with their government.

If you turn back the pages of history, you will find that American government was directly responsible for fall out of democracy in 1958 with the help of CIA. the reason at that time was the political and financial interests which US government decided to topple Mosadgh and help the late shah to take his power.
However today peace loving Iranian are asking help not to intervene militarily into Iran but ofcourse sanctioning key element which can help financially and economically overthrough this tyranny government which has been problem maker of world peace from its beginning of its satanic regime of islamic republic.
Therefore we need help from world peace loving people to overthrough this tyrany government and once for all eradicate the islamic ideology from Iran which will help world reach sooner to peace. as all know Iranian government is responsible in major terrorist activity and helping islamic terrorist organization financially and militarilly in training and also sending basijis and other islamic millitia to make trouble in different parts of the world.
by helping to overthrough this government the world will come to peace faster than to keep this fascist government to exist.
and we do not want any military action against Iran , no invation of any sort....please

I get a real sense....for years... that the Iranian people have always wanted to have a voice or Freedom. They are a proud people who want a place on the World's Stage as a free society. Unfortunately, political rhetoric such as the burning of the American Flag is a symptom of an suppressive government and is orchestrated by that government. Any government that rules via suppression is going to contrive and invoke "group mob psychology" control and they supplant the "pictures" to be viewed by not only of the suppressed society but more importantly, by the world's free peoples as to distance themselves from the world. This hatred is self serving...it attacks our Freedoms and conveys to Free peoples a sense of hate against so called Free Societies. This is a classic example of reinforcement of flawed ideologies and keeps the suppressors in power via a military platform.

What has happened in Iran is that the ruling cleric have lost all relevance to their society. I hope freedom prevails. My prayers are with the Iranian People.

We want blame a whole country because some tug burned the US flag one day? Americans burnd US flag several times in US.
People of IRAN (not the government) has always loved US and its people for what it has always stood for which is human right.
All these people are asking is basic Human Right. US does not need to and should not get involved militarily, but should get involved in any other way to help these people to get there.

To: JackieQ- Brea -Ca

The people who burned US flags in Iran are the same people attacking Mohammad and all of the protestors in Iran. To be clear: the "riot police," the "Basij" and a very small ignorant population were the ones who burning US flags in Iran. The majority of the people in Iran are freedome seekers who want peace with the international community. I am 100% certain that Mohammad has never burned a US flag.

To Tom in Albuquerque- Stop taking money from the Islamic Republic to continue your gibberish. We all know the IRI pays you to say such ridiculous nonsense. The protesters are being killed, held prisoner, tortured, accused of immorality, etc,etc,etc. This is not being done by the US nor Britain, nor do these people play pawn to the US CIA to get shot by other Iranians. These are people who have already been tortured, beaten, families killed, tortured, beaten, falsely accused etc etc. Go see a psychiatrist Tom. Apparently you have a problem with sadism. Either that or get the hell out of America if you feel the IRI is so good and live with the IRI yourself.

The reason a lot of people around the world HATE the US: army and the US: government(s), is that every time they meddle they leave a huge mess. I am PRO NATO and PRO democracy as well. I like the American people in general. Friendly and outspoken. The US. ARMY on the other hand ... Well it's always nice to have friends with a HUGE HAMMER, but it's generally not wise to do brain surgery with it.

My comment is in response to Jackie Q. The people of Iran are not the ones that burn our flag. Those are few extremeist out of 75M that live in Iran that do such a shameful act. You can not pass judgement on a population of 75M by viewing an act of a few in the population. Iranian people are peace loving people and that is evident through out the 3000 plus years of their heritage and history.

I just repeat what one of the readers rightfully wrote here: " These students never burnt our flag. The same people who are killing the students are the ones who burnt our flag. We can’t punish the kids like Neda for the behavior of the ones whom u are complaining about. "

A few thoughts:

First off, concerning President Obama's action, or lack thereof. I personally think that the president has handled this situation very well, and I'll tell you why. First off, there were folks like John McCain who were calling on the President to be more forceful with his comments as early as the day after the election. The major violence did not begin for an entire week afterwards. Had President Obama spoke out forcefully then, it very much so WOULD have been seen as the United States meddling in a sovereign nation's internal affairs–and it we would have been accused of doing so before the really atrocious nature of the current regime was brought into such poignant focus for the entire world to see. Don't get me wrong–I think that most Americans already had a negative view of the current regime anyway, but the way things have played out in the last week, no one in Iran can blame America for what has happened there this past week. We took a hands off approach, and in doing so the Ayatollah has been unmasked in a more poignant way than he would have had we been quick to rally support for the opposition.

Furthermore, on this same point, there was a wonderful interview on the CNN newsroom between Don Lemon and an Iranian-American journalist Saturday night, just before 11pm EST. I've written and asked CNN to post that interview to cnn.com but so far they've not done so. The journalist in question had spent the last four years in Tehran and was clearly an expert on the state of affairs in the country, and he said that Obama was "the only person in Washington that seemed to be thinking sensibly" about the situation, and that President Obama had done exactly the right thing up until that point.

Now, a second point: Do I believe that the Ayatollah is bad news?? Of course I do. Do I think that Moussavi would be a better leader?? Of course. But, let's not forget that prior to the election commentators were saying that Moussavi was essentially a moderate candidate who may or may not turn out to be better than Ahmadinejad. Moussavi himself is in favor of a nuclear power program for Iran. Don't get me wrong–of course I want him in power, and of course I want a regime change. But, I think it's a bit too soon to start treating him like he's the MLK of the Muslim world. This conflict is about voter fraud–we wouldn't be seeing this all happen if votes had been counted properly. I'm convinced that had Moussavi lost the election by a slim percentage but the votes had actually been counted, then you wouldn't be seeing protests or violence in the streets today.

That brings me to another point: do I think that the election was rigged? Yes. Do I think that Moussavi won? Perhaps. The truth of the matter is that the real vote tally wasn't counted, and many commentators have said that it's entirely possible that Ahmadinejad may have won the election. Now, this is not to say that that's what I think happened–I'm simply saying that it's not outside the window of possibilities that had the vote actually been counted, it could have gone his way by a 51-49% vote.

That having been said, this is my point: Let's say that Moussavi and the protesters did win the election. Ok, fine. How much might they have won by? Every single commentator out there will tell you that Ahmadinejad would certainly have gotten at least 40% or so of the vote–at least that much, and it's entirely possible that he might have gotten more.

Soooo....for those that are saying that "the real Iran doesn't hate America, the real Iran are those who are protesting against this tyrannical regime." Well, hey, I'd like to believe that. But, the truth of the matter is that even if Moussavi did win, 40-50% of the country voted for Ahmadinejad–so let's not view this whole thing through rose colored glasses and act as though 90% of the people are being controlled by 10% of the population. That's just not what's happening there. So, if the US were to get involved, what are we going to do??? Kill off 45% of the population????

Which brings me back to what I started out with: President Obama has done the right thing so far. The John McCain/George Bush/GOP quick-to-war, "Bomb, Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran" mentality would most definitely not be in anyone's best interest–neither of the people marching or of those of us here at home. We all need to keep that in mind before we cast judgment on our own President.

How would American's have reacted if Britain or France or Russia stepped in and tried to settle the 2004 US presidential election snafu? Iran for Iranians. Let them settle it amongst themselves. However, if the reformists need a few more guns, I'm sure the NRA and friends would offer them at a discount.

Why do we need to intervene in Iran when there are dozens of corrupt, dictatorial regimes in the world, repressing and slaughtering their own people? How long has the killing in Darfur gone on?

Oh yeah, Iran has oil, Darfur doesn't. Never mind.

Great job, Mohammad. Your words were very accurate and appreciated. As for what to do, I agree that the gasoline sanction will most likely end up hurting the very samepeope who are now protesting. Need to figure out a way to affect only the leadership. In the meantime, someone needs to figure out a way to deconstruct the nuclear mechanism that is now in play in Iran. Don't take our collective eyes off the ball. To do so will be devestative to life as we know it in the civilized world and life will be far worse than the existing riot situation is now.

The real problem lies with Iran's nuclear facilities. Those must be discovered and destroyed immediately.

Somone from Iran- thank you for your post. you are correct. Americans often have a difficult time grasping the idea of the people and the government being two different groups.

In support to our great citizen Mohamad who made a phone call to CNN today: We will remove this dictatorship and we will show the world one more time Iranians are peaceful and most trusted nation.
We will bring back our credit. We built the HUMAN RIGTHS by Cyress(Great Kourosh) and stand beside it.

Death to America, but could you please help us?

I too hate to see others oppressed, but if the Iranian people want freedom, they MUST earn it themselves. Once enough people get together and press for freedom, it will endure. If the US comes in and buys it for them by spilling American blood, the Iranians have earned nothing and appreciate nothing and nothing will endure.

For over 30 years the Islamic Republic killed inocent Iranian people to stay in power. This regiem is dangurous for the world peace.

This is the only chance to remove the Islamic republic of shame. Every government must speak up and support Iranian in their fight against this Evil system. God bless you all.

Can we really refuse to do business with their government because the election was a sham? Didn't Al Gore win?

We should not intervene.

The USA has killed and punished enough of our own protesters in this country to last a lifetime.

Remember Chicago 1968. Kent State. Martin Luther King The Civil Rights Movement

The people in Iran need to remember the words of a man who knows the real cost of freedom.

Nobody can give you freedom. Nobody can give you equality or justice or anything. If you're a man, you take it. Malcom X 1965

The United Nations should be helping the Iranians or at very least European Countries. I feel for the Iranians but the United States should not get involved. It would only fuel the fire for more terrorist.
For everyone saying Obama should take this time to make a strong statement. Shut up! He said exactly what needed to be said. Its the Iranian peoples moment in history and no one should dilute it for political gain!!

@drider
no u wont be standing for anyone wanting freedom.
firstly, this guy Mohammed is just a hoax and no iranians want US to be in iran
secondly , you didnt side with the iraqis. you went there to steal oil. No iraqis ever wanted US presence. US attacked iraq on the claim of possessing WMD. when the real reason was just to gain access to the oil reserves

Oh sure, when you are in trouble "Please help us America!!". Freedom isn't free! You want to change your country, some will die. And THAT people is what it takes, pure and simple. I wouldn't want it to be Americans dying. As far as being and Iranian-Ameriican (or African-American, or Mexican-American for that matter) horsesh*t! If you were born here, you are an AMERICAN of iranian,mexican,african (pick one)decent. If you can't live with that, go back to Iran,Mexico,Africa,etc. This is AMERICA, FIRST AND FOREMOST! Dont like it? LEAVE, please!!!

Burning our flag is not the issue here.
These young people want freedom, justice and to be respected by their elders and the world. This is their country and their place to define its future...not ours.
We took on the most powerful country in the world in 1776 and by the grace of God and plane dumb luck, we won. I pray that they can too. May God be with you.

Listen people,All I've ever heard coming out of Iran is death to America, and now you people want our help,you come to this country
and become better than the citizen's. How about first realizing that GOD don't like ugly............You people mock our religion you mock our
way of leaving and then when stuff it's the fan in your country you want the us to help. Well tell your idiot leaders to first recognIze OUR people's existence you know...........
what kind of God would tolerant you treating women worst than animals..............

Rebecca York,

You need to call 911 right away, whatever medication you are on must be bad.

" June 22nd, 2009 12:37 pm ET
If we all think and send positive energy, peace, freedom, love when thinking of the Iranian protestors and their supporters, that is allot. Butterfly effect, critical mass consciousness………

Amy -

Well said, I agree 100%, we cannot afford to help another country even if we wanted to, and definitely cannot afford to open anymore doors of corruption.

L

It is sad that people with little knowledge are still among us. This kid did not burn the U.S. Flag. I think he was a kid in 1979. The brave Iranian people are trying to stop an evil government which soon might send a nuclear device this way. The world and our own survival is dependent to support these students. They are stopping a new Hitler. They don't ask for U.S. Military help. Not that the U.S. Military could do anything anyway. We can't fix Iraq which is 1/3 the size of Iran. And lets remember that it is this Iranian government that has killed more of our Military than any other government in Iraq. If Iran is Free our military would be a lot safer. All it takes is stop trade and blockade Iran. No gas no trade. This goes to Russia, China, Europe and the rest of the world. Stop trading. Do not recognize the Iranian mullah government. Issue international arrest for War crimes and crimes against humanity. Next time any of these mullahs and mullah puppets step out of Iran they should be arrested and put on trial. As a final step arm the Iraninian people. Drop ship FN-SCAR Guns. They will become free. They already have shown no fear of death.

I agree with George, CNN pays good for a story like this, albeit rehearsed. Reading the transcript shows you how obvious it was just that: a read transcript. Maybe Iraq will have WMDs too, I got a tweet from Mohammad that said it was so. Keep a balanced eye on the American media, I had no idea how controlled and manipulated it was until I lived in Europe. I love this country, freedom, and democracy; but it is not for everyone and does not need to cost more Americans their lives. The true threat to our country is our invasion of yet another sovereign nation and not making the issues of our homeland a priority.

It is amazing how many ignorant people live in this country !!
To all of you who constantly generalize and put everyone in the same pot, please go and read your country's history starting with the end of WWII and learn how the foreign policy of this country has meddled in so many different parts of the world. Once you research and read (i doubt too many of you is capable of it) you will realize how many of these comments are so out there.
In the meantime do everyone else a favor and don't add your comments, they are really idiotic. If the US foreign policy is not to help a country such as Darfor and we all have seen what has happened , would it be wise to make the same mistake over and over again? If the president is a person who has no clue about a country and invades it, does it make sense the next president sit on his hand and wouldn't commit to helping human beings in despair? President Clinton has stated in numerous occassion that he "wished he had done something about Darfor"!!! So go learn your facts before you make a full out of yourselves.

I have to laugh at those who try to blame Obama for EVERYTHING. What is he suppossed to do? Drop Billions of dollars into invading another Middle Eastern country? That and a 1000 other decisions by George W Bush is why our economy is so weak right now and why the US infrastructure has begun to deteriorate. I feel for the Iranians who are being repressed by an extremist government. But, to assume they are the MAJORITY of their country and to call for another US police action is incredibally short sighted. Let's show compassion and support for those seeking freedom in Iran... but the US does NOT have to act as the police force for the world. I would rather see tax dollars go into US education and healthcare than poured into another war with another muslim nation.

Jackie Q: do yourself and everyone else a favor and stop commenting. You sound like a dumb blond!

The Iranian election has been a disaster from the begininng. It stands to reason that the election was rigged. If the majority really voted to keep the current 'leader' they would not be protesting now.

But this is a travesty that the Iranian people must handle on their own. The 1979 revolution didn't need our help so we must instead send our 'prayers' as Rebecca York suggested and hope the outcome is positive.

Iran consists of about 9 different tribes (turkmans, persians, arabs, kords, lors, etc) each withholding different values and culture. the only power that mollas thought will bring these tribes together was through religion which was practiced by majority, Islam. Iranians at first seemed to be supportive of the idea. However, after years this idea of Islam was not a reason of union anymore, it turned out to become a forced repulsive method to take people's liberty and freedom away.
Iranian new generation, under age 30, were born after the revolution and have seen nothing but dictatorship. there are more than 70 million Iranians living currently in Iran. less than half voted in the election. majority of those who didn't vote were the ones who didn't find any of islamic republic candidates to be worthy of governing the country.
the reason that re-election was rejected by khameneyi was that many of those who voted for ahmadi nejad at first, wouldn't vote again because their violent actions toward protesters, besides those ~35 million who didn't vote would this time vote for musavi to just show their opposition. also iranians living outside the country would vote for musavi too to support iranians inside...thus by allowing a re-election khameneyi's power would be doomed.
now, young Iranians are trying to change this regime, for many musavi is just a excuse for change. but many fear the direct involvement of the United States, because of recent US/ middle-east history during the presidency of Bush + the history of Iran/Iraq war. The only way that US could show its friendly support is letting Iranians voice to be heard through media, so Iranians inside and outside could keep in contact, and UN take action in supporting their human's right for freedom and democracy.

President Obama, Please do as the Iranian student says and cut off Iran's gas. I read it has only one gas refinery so one way or another please see that what he says is done. If anyone has the ear of the President, please get him this message at once.

People of Iran,

Rise up and defeat the Ayatollah menace.
It could easily become WW3 if they maintain power.

234 years ago a group of people stood up and demanded change. They fought for what they believed for and they won creating the United States of America. The people of France were kind enough to give assistance with money, supplies and manpower. We asked for their help and received it and with their help won Freedom and liberty are two grand ideas that we fought for. Are these people not doing the same? When they ask for help will we not provide for them just as France did for us? When Mousavi asks, the United States should be there. The difference between Iran and Iraq / Afghanistan are that the people of Iran are ready for change. I am nowhere near a fan of Iraq. A horrible war developed on lies and personal gain. I am not Iranian or Middle eastern, I am a white christian from Arkansas by way of California, so in this case there is no bias. If it were not for France 234 years ago where would we be here in the United States? Give these people a chance!!!! The United States needs to help no strings attached. Help them win their freedom then let them govern themselves just as France did for us, with NO western influence!

For the last several years, the world has told us to leave them alone. But we always stick our nose in where it does not belong. This produces dictators like Saddam and regimes like the Taliban and the Pakistani regimes. This is hands off time. Hope for them, but this is their fight. They will have to spill their blood in order to achieve freedom. Freedom can not come from intervention by other countries. It must come from within. Keep up the fight! And do not let up!

IIt is quite alarming to see how so many are ready to castigate either Obama or teh Iranian freedom fighters, It is indicative of how little some folks know of International politics, past and present. Obam ahas struck the right balance regarding Iran in order to avoid having the USA become the excuse for further bloodshed in Iran. We need to let thispure process process proceed w/out giving the current regime the excuse for mass slayings using tas an excuse he propanganda that the freedom fighters are fighting at the US' urging.

These students never burnt your flag. The same people who are killing them are the ones who burnt your flag. Remember the state TV is controlled by those extremist, that's what you have seen. Now, get the whole story from youtube and tweeter, from real people.

The World is powerless to help. We haven't heard anything from other Muslim countries. Iranians must help themselves. After all, it is the Iranian bothers and sisters who are clubbing and killing their own. It appears that the ones with the clubs and guns don't care – shame on those cowards.

Where is the Western World?

Poor people Whant Freedom.

Help The Iranian's and The Palstinian's get reed of
therie rajims.

Hamas, Ayattula's

You are next!

To everyone.

I hope after watching all of these videos and photos on internet, we have noticed that there is a difference between Iranian people and the current government in charge.

Do you still think this government is going to use the atomic energy for peaceful matters? After watching how they bit and kill their own people you think they would have any mercy for others?

How the other countries can help? simple, don't recognize the selected president, don't trade with them, block the money they have in banks, like what the UK did. Anything but military intervention which I am totally against, would be helpful. Provide the people with hints about how to be organized and protest with less casualty.
.... you know what? Ask the politicians who where in charge 30 years ago in your country. Ask them what did you do in 1979 to help bringing down the Shah government.. They can help for sure.

Send a letter to your MP, governor, .... today! The earth is no longer bounded by lines on maps. If we want to live in peace there should be peace everywhere.

Live in peace all.

As a veteran of Iraq (2004-2005 & 2006-2007), I can tell you that I fully support the Iranian people. All of you people saying "they should do this on their own" and "remember when they burned our flag in the streets and shouted 'Death to America'" seem to have quickly forgotten that in Iraq there was NO demonstration to bring down Saddam, but we went in anyway. There was NO organized opposition party who was willing stand alone in the face of that dictator, but we went in anyway...all in the name of freedom. I saw friends and civilians blown up and shot to give freedom to a country who didn't have the initiative or courage to fight for it on their own. Now Iran, part of the "Axis of Evil" has a huge number of her citizens screaming for freedom and DYING for their own freedom, and the United States isn't going to do anything about it? That is the most backwards logic I have ever heard. I would gladly fight along side any man or woman who is will to fight for their own freedom. God Bless the Iranian people…don’t give up hope!

As an Iranian-American, I would like to thank all of you for your kind words of support for our people and recognizing the universal right of freedom from oppression and persecution.

To those of you that keep addressing the flag burning, please keep in mind that the majority of these flag burners are the poor and uneducated people from the "dahats", or villages. Quite simply, many of them don't know any better. They often believe that those behaviors are in defense of Islam, which they are led to believe is under attack by the West.

Iran boasts one of the highest literacy rates in the world and places high priority on education. It is these people, those that have come to know better, that are protesting and need our support. Ironically, at the time of the revolution, the regime had encouraged families to have many children to ultimately back their flawed principles. Today, it is those same children, the children of the revolution, that are fighting for Democracy.

Wow some people dont want to help Iran because of past differences...Just like the Great Dr.Martin Luther King saig To ignore evil is to become an accomplice to it. It dont matter that we were once cursed at how better are we then them if we do nothing. In order to be respected we must be respectable. Second we need to stop reffering to them as them we are all one in the same its us over there.

JackieQ- Brea -Ca,

The only people in Iran that have been burning US flags are government employees which are paid to do so....

You need to understand the different the people of Iran and the government...

International communitry: Act and pressure the unrecognized government of Iran to stop these horrible crimes. How can you watch peaceful, freedom seeking people getting killed and do nothing! There is something extremely inhumane about that.

We need to stay as far away from this as we can, if others lead the charge through the UN, we agree and nod, and go along with it nothing more.

When the U.S. gets involved with Iran, it always seems to end badly for us in one way or another. Iran is like that girl who just for some reason kept popping up in your social life, and you mess around a few times, and every time you say... "I wish I never did that, it was more trouble than it was worth."

Same thing.

Bazid, read these posts a bit more carefully sir.

The only ones who bring up the ludicrous thought of US troops being sent to Iran to "help" are followers of Obama.
No rational, thinking person in America would even have such a ridiculous notion come to mind, the mention of it is designed simply to invoke Bush/Hitler garbage.

Of course the main beef these followers have against this Iranian man who is appealing for help is that in him doing so, is destroying what was suppose to be wise and determined leadership as us not being seen as meddlers, as Obama decreed.

PS,
Most of us knew he was full of bull from the start of his "non-meddling" campaign and we secretly root for these Iranian freedom fighters anyhow.

I totally agree with another poster on here (George). There is something fake about this interview....it seems staged. "Mohammed" seems to be saying exactly what needs to be said in order to get the American people in favor of meddling in Iran. Prior to all of this, Americans wanted NOTHING to do with Iran. Everybody was already upset with Iraq & Afghanistan, and were worried that Bush would extend the wars into Iran.....now, many Americans seem to want us involved.....media manipulation if you ask me.....

It doesnt look like there will be any major change for the people of Iran any time soon. Just more fighting and killing. I feel so sorry for them and i cringe when i see the images of violance ,especially the women Nada bleeding on the street. why cant we just go and send some snipers to take out all the bad guys in command.. then let the people rebuild their government... sucks that all of the world watches on tv and internet as they suffer things we cant even imagine. I hope they get what they want and the killing stops soon. they are good people.

The Iranians will solve "this" particular problem. We did have our own share of bloody share of bloody protests, and much like the Iranians right now, but always something came out of it that is good for our country - we learn, we strengthen our democracy more, etc., and . . . we did it our own way.
What is happening in Iran right now will give way to a much better system, trust me, just like ours. Yes, it will cost blood, but when did it ever not? Our own labor unions of long ago freed us from the injustice of greedy corporations by shedding blood for us so that we may get our much enjoyed benefits right now.

Lets not forget who overthrew the democratic leader of Iran in 1953 and install the Shah, and lets not forget who decided it was time for the Shah to go and welcomed Khomeni in 1979. The US has always meddled in Iran's affair, but today the Iranians are asking for help and Obama is not doing a thing.

AND ALSO , THE BURNING US FLAGS ARE DONE BY GOVERNMENT PAID EMPLOYEES OF IRAN, THEY ARE NOT THE IRANIANS YOU SEE IN THE STREETS TODAY FIGHTING FOR THEIR RIGHTS AND FREEDOM. FOR THE AVERAGE AMERICAN, I KNOW IT IS HARD TO UNDERSTAND THE IRANIAN AND US POLITICS BUT IT IS SOMETHING YOU NEED TO RESEARCH AND KNOW...

-----------------------------
Monica

Unfortunately I feel the same way. Everytime we do something ‘wrong’ in the eyes of the middle east, the streets of Iran are flooded with protesters yelling ‘Death to America’, ‘Death to American’s’, and burning of the American flag. Do I want to put the lives of our US Armed Forces in harms way for yet another Middle East country that truly doesn’t appreaciate the blood we have split to help liberate their country in the name of democracy… No… Let’s wait. Remember, the United States and it citizens had to suffer in order to achieve it’s freedom. Pain let’s you OWN your victories.

We need cooler heads to prevail. Can someone in the Iranian leadership say something that appears diplomatic?

You know what would be interesting? A live event, showing all the presidential candidates and the Ayatolla speaking in a civilized way at the same time with some basic agreement that discussions are under way to address the demonstrators concerns.

THATS ALL THE WANT. They are not interested in revolution. They are not interested in taking over the positions of power, they JUST WANT THEIR VOICE TO BE HEARD and have a sense that IT IS being heard.

THATS IT.

If they do that, these demonstrations will be over with within a week.

The Iranian people are too smart and have too much history to let this break themselves from their common unity.

Time for cooler heads to prevail.

I hope that when the President speaks tomorrow (Tuesday) at 12:30 p.m., he will speak out verbally in support of the Iranian people who want freedom. I agree that the International community should draw up a response to the Thugs and so-called hypocritical religious leaders who are suppressing free speech and civil rights of the Iranian people. I would like Iranians who are protesting tyranny within their country to know that this president and the American people's prayers are with you. Now, the world is getting a good understanding of Iranian democracy and why the U.S. has the 2nd Amendment (to carry guns). That would have been an equalizer in Iran.

It is the responsibility of any Democratic government to assist any other government (weather legit or seeking to be legit) to provide or install a Democratic government for the people by the people.

While I am against and hesitant to send soldiers (I was a former soldier for 10 years) to once again another place in the world that asks for our assistance to only turn around years later and insult us for being there in the first place. However, I am torn by my desire to want to help the the result that help will give. Americans are ALWAYS interfering is what we hear, what we don't hear is that we were ASKED to interfere.....

If Irianians want change, then they need to form a replacement government, hold secret votes support or assisted by the UN to prove majority rule. Then, and only then should the INTERNATIONAL community get involved to remove the old government. As an international community, stay there until the new government is in place and working.

Stand up for what you want. Stand behind what you say. Expect from your government the power YOU give it!!!! Remember, a government is there to voice your desires and to protect your freedoms NOT to set those freedoms for you.

The Iranians now crying for help from the free world has said many times in the past," Death To America" you people made your bed now lie in it. I am glad Obama is showing presidential restraint and not acting like the buffoon GW Bush .

The world is against the policy of the iranian givernment. And now when the own people of Iran stood up against their regime and it's foreign policy we can't leave them alone. By fighting, getting killed persians are helping not just themselves but also the entire world to put an end to the dictatorship. Persians are changing the world for better. Persians are highly-educated , very civilized people and they don't hate west, they are pro-western. It's just the government which is in hands of a bunch of ignorant mullalar provokes hatred toward the west. But persians know the truth. People who burned american flags are a bunch of hilly-billies who were payed to do that. Persians hate their regime, their government

I'm watching the coverage of these events and I can't help but think that if McCain had been elected we would be bombing all these freedom seeking people. Bomb Bomb Iran. The republicans said that Obama was naive when it came to his ideas about talking with Iran, that his policies were making America less safe and, that he had no expierence. Now the republicans are saying that he's not taking the right approach. That his response is weak. When it comes to foreign policy I'm going to listen to the people who actually have some credibility on the subject. People who aren't so eager to bomb everyting in sight. Would any of this be happening with McCain in the Oval Office? Think about it. Those protesters would not be there. This would not be happening. The world knows where America stands. So when I see that some of the congress and the Senate have opinions that differ from the President I know its free speech, I also know its wrong.

DK: Who says we have to be the police force for the world? However, we have been as long as there has been something in it for us!! That is how we have gotten involved in so many place where we should not have been to begin with. Having said that, this is the best opportunity for US government to take the control out of bunch of idiots with nukes and save lots of lives in that region.

@DK

"I have to laugh at those who try to blame Obama for EVERYTHING. "

LOL!!!

Welcome to the past eight years and being a Republican. Look at your own post!! You're still blaming him for everything...even now!!!

Give it a rest already.

Is Hezbollah and PA Hamas being used to assist Iran to control the Iranian people? Shiites and Sunnis fighting? Ever heard of the Molotov/Ribbentrop pact? It is an alliance between Hamas and Iran. So the scene is finally set for brutal imposition of Islamic theocracy upon the ME and what? the world? Does the Islam theocracy reaching all the way into the office of Obama. Yes it is folks. Perhaps USA citizens need to take note of the brave Iranians fighting for their country! We could learn a few things. Imagine what people can do to uproot evil in their country! Dare we step in their shoes and believe? A government that does not represent the people anymore and thinks it can have its way without anyone uprising, but look whats happened! The best to the Iranians, they have guts! Americans use to.

I am utterly amazed at the STUPIDITY and IGNORANCE in the comments by JackieQ and Monica 0220!!

Do either of you even know that the US was actually behind a coup in Iran in 1953 that overthrew a DEMOCTRATIC government and replaced it with a US friendly dictatorship. Much of the problems in Iran are rooted in that interference. The reason the US should not interfere again is not that Iranians and muslims in general are ungrateful America haters, as your simple minded comments claim, but rather that the twisted history of American involvement in Iran could actually endanger these brave protesters.

Read a little history before you post stupid comments!!!

I pray for this brave Mohammed and all of the brave Iranians who ae standing up to a brutal dictatorship. They are lying to their people, and brutally repressing them. I hope and pray they will overcome this repressive regime so they can be a part of the civilized world.

Yes, you are right they use to burn our flags. However, I am not sure that was this generation.

Very delicate situation, one we can not get involved in, not yet. Sorry, we just cannot at this point. We cannot offer anything, because we cannot back it up. There is the potential that there will be significant repercussions if we are involved. If we support a movement and the opposition begins to be slaughtered, we would have to sit back and watch. Our soldiers cannot handle anymore, we already ask to much of them with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. There would be nothing we could do but sit back and watch what we instigated.

We will pray for you, sanctions might work, and support the ideas of liberty and expression.

Unfortunately, there is nothing the United States can do other than offer words of support, and these words may end up being the very sword of destruction.

Dont forget our troops in Iraq. We cannot put more pressure on them by supporting revolutionaries in Iran.

Unfortunately, the administion and the democrats are filled with the John Lennon type of protest. Perhaps they will stage a "bed-in" to show support for the Iranian students? Our cowardness weakens not only us, but freedom everywhere.

Guns against stones. It may seem out of place but as Iran calls for our help it also calls for reflection here at home. Did our forefathers see such images for us when they protected a right to bear arms. How easily a few can repress many with todays technology and limiting the ability to protect ones self. This should cause us to pause when we seek laws here at home that may put us in a similar position someday.

Iranian in Denmark wrote: "Back in 9/11 we all became American, I think now we should all become Iranian to get rid of these Islamists and “Ahmadi Nejad” the chimp."

WHAT? You think we should ALL now becoming Iranian? For WHAT, I'm becoming Iranian too?? Is not big joke! Is crazy! You want me speaking Farsi also? Okay, give me dollar – I speak Farsi! Neh mi fama, Hodafes!

For clarity, American did not win its freedom from Britain on its own. Google: 'France in the American Revolutionary War'

OMG! My heart bleeds for the Iranian people. Our NATO allies need to stand up & speak out. That said, the Iranian people are in the fight of their lives, and need to win it without foreign intervention. What would Americans have said if Europe had sent troops to the streets of Alabama during the Civil Rights movement?

Rest in Peace, Neda. You're beyond this Veil of heartache.

I'm not buying it. Not Mohammad, not CNN's coverage, not the acid-tongued opinion-givers in this list, certainly not Jackie-Q. I tire of hyperbole, spin, half-assed half-facts, misdirecting psuedo-truths and all the religious crap people want to cram down my throat. Find the facts and dispense with opinion because the former trumps the latter.
Iran is a sovereign state with its own government and culture, as magnificent and legitimate as our own. Monitor, but leave them alone. There are more important things for us to froth at the mouth about. I am pleased by Obama's approach to this and other issues of our day and understand our divided country will take some time to heal from the Bush era.

One of the best weapons we have, as people, against what is happening in Iran right now is this: Information. Yes, there are a lot of opinions on here that are biased one way or another, but people are at least *aware* of what is happening. Of the terrible losses being suffered by the protesters. Of the irregularities in the election. Of the horrible violence that has broken out.

I sorrow for those who have lost so much, not only in Iran, but elsewhere. The world is an unjust place, and only by recognising the injustices can they be corrected. Freedom and justice often come at a terrible cost, but once gained, are all the sweeter.

To those in Iran who are standing up and speaking out, know that there are those of us who may not stand with you in body, but do so in spirit. May God bless you and keep you...

I don't know what people expect us to do. The president has already stated his support and forcefully demanded a stop to the violence by the government of Iran. People are being irresponsible when they try to make it seem like we are going to come the aid of people on the streets. We are not going to invade this country. See Iraq. We are not going to arm them. See Osama and the Taliban during the Afghan/ Russian war. Our constant meddling in international affairs continues ot backfire on us.

The United States has to step back and let people in developing countries grow up and take responsibility for their futures. We have to let these people earn their freedom. Let them develop their own Ben Franklins, George Washingtons and Martin Luther Kings. Everytime we step in, we hinder their development into a true democracy. We can't even get out of Iraq because the people are dependents of the US. They are on international welfare. Let the Iranian people win this on their like they are trying to do now. They know we are behind them.

I still think we should side with Britain on this issue. I read that Moussavi's supporters still side with an Islamic government but the very nature of the "freedom's" that these people want attacks the underpinnings of Islamic control. The mere fact that the IRI is once again accusing the US and Britain of interference is the same old rhetoric. The government still won't let their people have a mind of their own!! The IRI continues with isolation because they don't want their own people to be allowed a mind to think what they think and feel how they feel. As much as I side with caution-to continue to harass foreign governments which the IRI has done-over what their own people say they want is in my opinion enough to engage the IRI in retaliation. We should stand up with Britain-stop the IRI's rhetoric and tell them that after 3 decades they have done nothing to support their own people and blaming the US and Britain for their own failings does not add any of our interest to engaging them in any diplomatic process.

What you people do not realise is that Iran is ISLAMIC republic where 95 percent of the population is muslim. None of this was imposed on them, in fact they choose in a referendum to get rid of their king and turn the country into an Islamic republic. The fact is that despit some of the vote irregularities, millions and million of people did really vote for Ahmedinejad and he would have won even if it was a fair election.
People do not want to end the Ilamic revolution. The evidence of that is the 85 percent turn out in the elections. econd evidence of people wanting to remain Islamic is the fact that these "protesters" want Moussavi as their president. This is a guy who helped start the Islamic revolution and was the leader of the country along with Khomeini. His party's colour is green which is also the colour of Islam.
Every protestor has been shouting Allaho Akber from yheir roof tops and roads and their balconies. This is not a war against the Islamic Revolution. It is simply a protest to get rid of Ahmedinejad. Only people shouting "freedom for iran" are the ones living in America who wernt even born in Iran or havnt returned since the Islamic Revolution.

Why are we americans so obsessed with Iran? Why can't we mind our own business and leave Iran to the Iranians? It's ridiculous to see our media giving so much undue media attention to the plight of people who really do not matter to our daily life. Being an Iranian American myself I would advice the Americans to please mind your own business and not meddle with others affairs. I hope we as a nation can grown up and stop acting anal.

Many of you post here saying you want freedom for Iran. If you really believe in your heart that the U.S. should 'help' them please don't forget to stop at your recruiters office and sign up. I'd hate to go have to fight this war without you.

Obama is doing the right thing by staying on the sidelines.We don't need to give the government of Iran a reason to abuse their people.The united nations must stay united and tackle this problem collectively.If it was George Bush we probably would be fighting by now.

Remember that most of these people were children or not even born when Iran has their uprising against the Shah and the hated regime the West put in power. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all ... and much though our government would like to step in, what can we do but give those in power who oppose you just another reason to crack down.
Good luck...may you persevere and win. Indeed, by showing the world the other side of Iran, you already have.

After reading some of the posts here, it is clear that most Americans do not know their own government very well. The bottomline here is the US took away the Freedom Iran had in 1953 by installing the Shah and the outcome today is what we see in Iran. SO PLEASE DO NOT SAY THAT IF IRANIANS WANTS FREEDOM IN IRAN, THEY HAVE TO FIGHT FOR IT ALONE.. HAD THE US NOT MEDDLED WITH IRAN'S AFFAIR IN 1953, THE ENTIRE MIDDLE EAST WOULD HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT TODAY.

I'm an Iranian, I must tell the world that the majority of people here want peace, they don't lke violence.It's about a 100 years that the people of Iran are fighting for freedom but I don't know why we have always gone the wrong way. The islamic revolution was one of these ways which people followed to gain that freedom, but again they were wrong. I'm sure the words of Mohammad are true because these words are what most elites, most of the students and many of the people here believe in deep into their hearts.
Like who doesn't like freedom???
WE ARE NOT SAYING THAT AMERICA SHOULD INVADE THE COUNTRY, WE ARE SAYING, NOT TO RECOGNISE THE PRESIDENT AND THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN.

Before asking the question of whether the US should intervene we might consider whether we even have to. The mullahs who have been running Iran are now clearly understood by the Iranians as the charlatans that they indeed are and have always been.

These inept tinpot dictators are undermining their own cause more severely than we in the US or elsewhere could ever hope to. The tinpots have so incensed their populace that they are in the streets day after day at very real risk to themselves-as unfortunately has become all too evident.

The mullahs may hang on for a few days, weeks or months, but their days are numbered. Just wait until the funerals for the martyred protestors start and we'll all understand.

I'm man enough to realize and correct a mistake when I make one.

When I mentioned that Obama followers we're bringing how they are against the USA sending in troops to Iran to help Iranian freedom fighters, I was wrong.

It wasn't "just" to invoke the Bush/Hitler garbage.

It was to insert a strawman (American troops) who will never be sent into Iran to sort out this illegitimate government for the Iranian people.

It is being said as a type of subliminal, nonexistent....future debate.... that we could save billions more dollars by not sending strawman troops into Iran and we could better spend those saved dollars on education and ACORN.
I feel terrible for freedom fighting Iranians, I really do but look at how many billions of dollars we saved.*rolls eyes*.

Unfortunately, the majority of Iran are rural religious people who support the current government. It's nice that the middle class and students want more freedom, but they don't represent the majority. Tougher sanctions might get the people that currently support the status quo to see what a mess religious zelot leaders cause the countries they lead.

We support people of Iran. Any fight for freedom it is right fight. And I'm praying for all people who are in the street of Teheran protesting.
Allah be with you.
Mwandambo
Columbus, OH

Iranian-Americans want the old Shah regime back because it unfairly guaranteed them an aristocratic lifestyle and excesses that led to the 1979 revolution – thats why they all fly those monarchist flags (with the yellow lion on it), while in other countries, people fly the normal Iranian flag. Why trade one dictatorship for another? These exiles are essentially despised by the average Iranian for their unfairly accrued wealth and status, so why do exiles think their opinions represent the average Iranian's?

Iran needs REAL democracy – No mullahs, and definitely no monarchs. If Iranians fairly vote for the Shah's son to be president (or Ahmedinazhad for that matter), then he should be president for 4 years. Let Iranians decide who they want as leaders, but don't force the old and corrupt regime onto the masses again. Put away those monarchist flags already, and support real democracy in Iran.

"What world do you live in?!? Wake up! The world isn’t all hugs and kisses"

The world is; what you beleive it to be. All else is interpretation.

Gazleh: This is so sad that as an Iranian American you would think that we should mind our business in America! Where else would you be getting your daily bread from?!!! Please read your American History and then comment because your daily life IS depended upon other countries affairs (as we have our hands full in majority of the world)!

Jamie D;
Like we had a 'duty' to help the people of Iraq, Kuwait, Somalia.... how is that working out for us, oh... that's right Americans protest our involvement and the International community ridicules us for involving ourselves in things that are not our business.

I did my duty in Kuwait and then went back for a second helping in Iraq, you get the rest of the International community and the U.N. to say " United States, we are requesting your assistance " and then get them to agree to MATCH our efforts and I'll be the first in line to go back to that sand pit.

From my experience I'm betting there are more Iranian people that do not want U.S. assistance than there are that want our help, untill I can be proved wrong my vote is to mind our own business and pray Iran can find peace.

Iranian,

What makes you so sure the Iranians in Iran want this Islamic crap they have for a government?? The Islamic regime has showed the world what kind of cult it is, and yes Iranians in Iran want Freedom and to get that Freedom it would mean its time for the Islamic regime to come to an end and that is what is happening now.

Mohammad,

My God bless you all brave students in Iran;

Unfortunately I am outside of Iran but am doing as much as I can to buy supports for you all;

Problem is some of our fellow american friends can not distinguish the difference between minority hard liners and militias and the mass population of Iran who are pro american;
I am reading all these comments and out of every 3 or 4 of them they are saying that "Rmember you guys were burning our flags in Tehran streets"

They just don't get the picture right;

PEOPLE OF USA
PLEASE LISTEN THIS ONE AND LISTEN GOOD:
The ones that were burning your flags in last 30 years are the ones that are shooting these young crowds in streets today; They are the ones that shot and killed NEDA two days ago;
If they stay in power they will burn your flag for many years to come; they are stupid, rude, brain washed minorities; what do you expect from idiots?

I hope it is clear for you now.

Thank you for your support

It's time for Obama to make a statement and take action. The Iranian people recognised for years that this regime is too strong to remove to do this without foreign help. But no, bravehearts, they try once again, but really need help, as you can see on the web.

And JackieQ- Brea -Ca needs to think if she/he can. Burning flags isn't done by the population , but by regime mobilised people.

So once again to Obama: Help the brave Iranian people!!!

Keep standing up and letting the world hear you people of Iran. I hear you, and I know im not alone.

Rest In Peace Neda Salehi

My prayers are with all the freedom seeking people of Iran.

Demargo, have you read previous comments posted by educated people? They try to educate ignorant ones. Read them first and then post your comment. Actually, don't post anything, people like you never change, never grow up.

Let Iranian people exercise their rights and elect their own government themselves. They earned this right back in 1979, and hated Americans ever since. I don’t need another sandbox to play in. Those who want to help Iranians – join the armed services, and go. Leave me alone!

Supporters of the conservative regime burned the flags during the 1979 revolution. Those conservative hard-liners are the very same people that are in charge of the government today and brutally attacking demonstrators. It is unfair to attribute the hard-liners’ actions to all Iranians, especially those that are risking their lives to oppose the conservative regime. Please be more careful in your comments.

The situation in Iran, Saddam coming to power in Iraq, the situation in North Korea, and dozen other situations similar to this are the results of American (and more over Western) short term solutions and intervention. Instead of supporting a legitimate regime that cared about its people – we choose to support the Shah and give him carte-blanche despite his complete lack of comprehension or caring for his people. Why? WE placed OUR strategic interests first. The Cold War and fight with the USSR was more important. The results helped sow the seeds for the current situation in Iran.

Many of the world' s worst conflicts are the results of Western powers quest for imperialism and efforts to support their own interest. Think Britain and India-Pakistan, think the British/ United States and Iraq, think the modern UN and Israel and Palestine. Unfortunately, Obama has few options because his acting strongly will give the Iranian regime the "cover" to label their citizenry as "foreign agents" and slaughter them without restraint.

These people are fighting for their civil rights. Their right to be free. Their rights to live their lives. Our own history shows that Government can be the evil and the instrument of injustice. Look at slavery. Look at the forced relocation of Native Americans. Look at Jim Crow. ok at internment during WWII. Look at the Civil Rights Marches – it was OUR POLICE and OUR LAW doing that.

But WE, as Americans and more importantly as HUMAN BEINGS able to freely exercise our abilities of speech and action can take a stand. WE CAN SAY, WE SUPPORT YOU.

No one is free until ALL are Free.

"Death to America" is Iranian regime propaganda. Do you believe everything you see on TV?

Mister Iranian, nobody is foolish enough to think that Iranians will not remain of the Islamic faith and we don't have a problem with that...Do you sir?

We also noticed the same people yelling "Allho Akbar" from their rooftops are also yelling "death to the dictator" and "death to Khomanie".
This does lead people, me included that they wish to be out from under
their oppressive boot and that is one Hell of alot better than what they have now, it is one Hell of alot better than what "world" has now.
May I suggest, now that you apparently have American citizenship, that "you" stay out of what is now the will of the Iranian peoples rights......or fly back to Iran and join the Basij.

There will always be blood within a country when its people are trying to fight for what is right for their own country; i.e. our own Civil Rights movement. The clue here is the Iranian rights - "THEIR RIGHTS". Now, if their own government will not listen to their own people, and in the end uphold this fraudulent election, then the U.N., not U.S. alone, should start sanctions, etc. But to NOT let the Iranians solve their own election problems is not simply wrong.

It doesn't really matter. The rapture is soon, and all of these awful Muslims will be incinerated by the holy, cleansing fire of Lord Jesus Christ. Praise God, there will be no Iraq or Iran soon enough.

Maybe some of you "Muslims" should wise up and give in to the gospel of Jesus Christ?

Let the French or Germans take care of this one. You don't want Team America: World Police, then somebody else can send in troops. Go cry to the Russians to send in troops.

I am a Canadian and I love our American neighbors, but you speak like ignorants who have never tasted oppression. Here is how things work in my country (canada) if there is some injustice happening, I can alert the media and get coverage.
Here is how it works in countries like Iran. The government announces the US and Britain are planning an air raid on Iran. The government tells people to make some noise against the West or start the Death to America chant at Friday prayers. A minority of the population, mostly uneducated and ignorant chant this, some genuinely believe that the West is coming for them, it's fear, some are afraid of what will happen if they dont do this (gov't officials). Then they video this and broadcast world-wide to show Iran hates America.
The media is owned by the government. There is no such thing as free speech. What should the Iranians do? The don't want to be represented by a mad man ( group of mad men) in the global community. So they elect a reformist representative. Then the election is rigged and their guy is "defeated". What can they do but protest. They protest, and they get killed. If US and "The West" wants to turn their back on Iranians, let it go down in history, it is because it is politically unwise for US, not because of the Iranian people.

All iranians who wish to see the changes as requested by Mohaamed, must take to the streets and no matter the cost, no matter how many die, just keep fighting ! Let the bodies stack up to the sky if need be, so the whole world can see that all Iranians want this for yourselves as bad as we want it for you. Stay strong ! Never Give Up ! Viva La Resistance !

I am a Canadian and I love our American neighbors, but you speak like people who have never tasted oppression. Here is how things work in my country (canada) if there is some injustice happening, I can alert the media and get coverage.
Here is how it works in countries like Iran. The government announces the US and Britain are planning an air raid on Iran. The government tells people to make some noise against the West or start the Death to America chant at Friday prayers. A minority of the population, mostly uneducated and ignorant chant this, some genuinely believe that the West is coming for them, it's fear, some are afraid of what will happen if they dont do this (gov't officials). Then they video this and broadcast world-wide to show Iran hates America.
The media is owned by the government. There is no such thing as free speech. What should the Iranians do? The don't want to be represented by a mad man ( group of mad men) in the global community. So they elect a reformist representative. Then the election is rigged and their guy is "defeated". What can they do but protest. They protest, and they get killed. If US and "The West" wants to turn their back on Iranians, let it go down in history, it is because it is politically unwise for US, not because of the Iranian people.

“Thus choosing to die resisting, rather than live submitting, they fled only from dishonor, but met danger face to face, and after one brief moment, while at the summit of their fortune, left behind them not their fear, but their glory.” – Pericles of Athens, Thucydides’ Peloponnesian War

Keep up the good fight. You have the respect and support of the American people...just not our President.

CNN has become an agitator for US involvement in Iran. CNN is mouthing all these communicades from The anonymous Iranians with no way to authenticate the verity of any of it. CNN is guilty of propogandizing on behave of the Iranian anti-government hooligans. This MOHAMMAD student could be a total fraud...how are we to now. CNN STOP this irresponsible reporting. Iran has a right to stop these so-call freedom seekers/sore losers from destroying their country. USA must stay out of this fight, period.

[...] [...]

I feel terrible for the people of Iran. The ones who are protesting are fighting for there rights as HUMAN BEINGS. The ones who are not protesting (that are on the current governments side) are too blinded by the money that is being given to them to want change. President Ahmadinejad is known for giving a little more to the villages that are not as wealthy and that's probably to get there vote while the men work for that militia (the "volunteer" army- meaning follow our orders and we will take care of your family needs).
If you listen or read a little more carefully.......IRAN IS NOT ASKING ANYONE TO INVADE THEIR COUNTRY. A lot of the posts are reflecting that action. The Iranian People are asking for other countries to come together with UN and NOT ACCEPT Ahmadinejad as the President and to cut certain ties. It is actually quite smart, but of course must be done as a team.
There are a lot of post that shock me on here. Not all Iranians are MUSLIM. A good majority of them are Jewish, Christian and Catholic. In the west we have a right to chose our religion. In IRAN they have NO CHOICE but to follow ISLAM. How is that fair? And that is ALL BECAUSE OF THE CURRENT GOVERNMENT WHO HAS BEEN IN POWER FOR THE LAST 30 YEARS. The KING never ever had discriminative rules like that.

blah blah blah

Some Americans are really fire up easily whenever someone appear weak and cry out for help, always speak and react before analysis and thinking. Look at war in Iraq, I believe Bush has good intesntion to free Iraqis, see what turn out to be? We and next few gernations pay for this stupid act.

Yes there are plenty of people in many regimes cry for democracy and freedom, we have limit resources and have done PLENTY thankless jobs for the world. We proud to have democrcy and freedom here, ironically these are the only thing we have, no prosperity but plenty of debts for citizens.

We have no business in Iran, don't listern to the US media preching the nuclear threat from N Korea and Iran, it's our "allies" want their peace at our expense while invade us economically at the same time. America need to be smarter than what we are now, do you see China and Russia welcome Iran in recent conference after the election? They are very glad America fire up on the democracy things of other country and forget to solve their own problems.

"These left-wing peaceniks have no concept how the real world works. Put one of these Islamic extremists in a room with you with a gun and he’ll put a bullet in your head. He will have no regrets and sleep like a baby at night.."

Your solution to that situation, I am assuming, would be to be the one who puts the bullet in the head of the extremist?

If that is true, you have shown that your solution is no different than the extremist you illustrate here.

If you die for peace and love, it is not a wasted. There is value in giving up your life for a better world where peace prevails, whether it is plausible or not that the world will ever live in true peace. I believe that is because others will see your courage and their actions will be affected by it, one way or the other.

But to take a life based on your fear is a travesty, not just because your own life has been dominated by fear, but of those who would take up the gun to avenge the death you have caused, or vise versa. Violence, begets more violence. Someone has to have the courage to end the cycle.

I hope you understand my use of the word fear has nothing to do with you having the “guts” to pull a trigger.

Theocracy is the enemy of democracy. Iran’s theocratic government is not representative of the will of Iranians who seek basic human rights that we take for granted in the US. I wonder what our government would be like if we were ruled by the likes of Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell. Thank you CNN for covering this story and showing unfiltered footage of what is going on in Iran. This brutality has been going on in Iran for 30 years and the rest of the world has just stood by and allowed these atrocities to continue to occur. Supporting the Iranian people’s fight to democracy, peace, and human rights does not require risking American lives. It requires our support, our voice, and a unified international effort to shut off the Islamic Government of Iran.

Jackie, Iranian govt does not represent the people of iran. They bring their supporters in the street for propaganda purposes and burn american flags. but those $50,000 people do not represent a country that has a population of $60 million. Iranian people are educated and cultured and they want a portion of the freedom that we take for granted in this country. Despite being beaten and thrown in jail, they held vigils after 9/11. We are all human beings regardless of where we were born. If people are being killed and tortured and they ask us for help should we turn our back to them? is this what humanity has come to?! the majority of these kids are 16-20...if you know any kids in this age group in US, maybe it will give you a better prespective.

This is a very strong statement by President Bush: "to the Iranian people, I say tonight: As you stand for your own liberty, America stands with you." Will the president of the United states back up his owns words with actions? You promised these people for freedom and they fighting for it now. Iranians are doing their part and it's time for us to take it from there.

JackieQ, I echo the sentiments of those who thought your point was narrow minded and obviously you are unaware of what really happens in the world you live in.

To the person who suggested we impeach Obama, sure we'll get right on that after we try and convict senior members of the Bush administration for war crimes. I hold them LARGELY responsible for the way we are viewed by much of the extremists today.

If this transcript is from a legitimate protester who is in Iran, i commend his bravery for taking this risk to give his view to the world. He DOES make perfect sense. He is suggesting a PEACEFUL yet effective method to cripple this regime. My heart goes out to all of the citizens of Iran who truly are... fighting for their freedom.

And our president, all I personally wanted was for him to publicly condemn the violence being used by this regime to attempt to silence his people. He has done this. Now it is up to him and our allies to take the next course of action, sanctions. He has been wise to take the stance that he has. Let on NOT forget what the big mouth of an arrogant greedy world leaders can cost us. It should still be pretty fresh in your minds! Oh, and don't get me started on "stolen" elections. We Americans all remember that too. How's your economy today America? THAT didn't happen on Obama's watch.

These people have a right to their freedom and I wish them well, but the US has enough blood on it's hands. Some of your comments are rather shocking. What would you have us do? Send our troops in? Really...

The student is correct. Shut down the supply of gasoline to Iran. It is the one major reason that Nazi Germany lost the war.

"Bryan Johnson" it is people like you and your disgusting hate speech that make situations like this possible. PLease shut your mouth and wait for the adults to speak. If hate and racism is all you have to offer think on this: SOMEWHERE OUT THERE OSAMA BIN LADEN IS SAYING THE SAME THING. Only he has switched the words Christianity and Islam in that statement.

Somewhere out there someone is using ignorance like this to kill and terrorize. That statement can be used for dozens of groups and hundreds of situations. Only this time: They are talking about your religion and your indentity. Only now someone is saying the World would be good without you. And as a Christian, I am going to tell you. ALOT MORE DEATH AND DESTRUCTION AND EVIL HAS BEEN DONE IN THE NAME OF JESUS AND CHRISTIANITY THAN IN THE NAME OF ALLAN AND ISLAM.

OBAMA IS A COMPLETE COWARD. THIS POOR IRANIAN LOVES HIS COUNTRY MORE THAN OBAMA LOVES THE USA. WHERE'S GEORGE BUSH WHEN U NEED HIM. AT LEAST HE WOULD STAND BY THESE POOR OPPRESSED PEOPLE. OBAMA SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fact: The United State is the only country in the world that doesn't have a death penalty for burning it's own flag.

Fact: More people in the United States have burned it's own flag than any country in the world by people saying "We earned the right to do this"

They didn't earn the right to burn their own flag. The Union soldiers from the Civil War did. And the soldiers in WWI and WWII and the soldiers in Irac and Afghanistan. Some people in this country only use certain rights of theirs to their advantage. Freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of religion, and freedom to burn our flag.

They seem to forget that thousands of people died in our own Civil War who gave their lives so we could have these freedoms.

Burning our own flag is an insult to those people who put their lives on the line and died for us, their future generations.

Iran is now at that point that our North and South were so many years ago. We need to stay out of it. This is their fight. This is their Civil War. Like someone here said, Freedom means nothing unless it is earned. They NEED this and if they want change they need to fight for it like our ancestors did or it will mean nothing to them. And when they finally achieve it hopefully they will not take it for granted like so many millions of us US Citizens have. Even I plead guilty of taking it for granted sometimes. We should never forget how we got to this point in our lives. Never forget the soldiers of freedom.

Every nation has its own problems. So is Iran. The way to democracy can be long, blood-stained and extremely painful. That's the price to pay as you can learn from history books. Don't rely on outsiders. We can help, but only to a certain degree. The successful democratic movement should be from inside no matter how high the price to pay is. Otherwise, chances are that a spell of long and more painful chaos will follow. And it will ruin your country even more thoroughly. So it will take time. But be patient. Don't think that you can get what you want overnight (with only a small payment on your end or by foreign intervention). It will require a lot of sacrifices. Educate yourself, your people. Eventually, majority people's will will prevail.

I 100% agree with Casey- very well put.

Ghazleh- to mind our own business and not educate ourselves of events in the world only sets us up for future failure. I'm satisfied with the amount of coverage, because in some way, it does affect us.

To all of you whom are against Iranian's-six million jews died in hollocoast because no one helped them including the Americans.
Do you know what will happen if we don't help them? the Ahmadinejads will grow strong and at the the end they will use their nuclear weapons against us the U.S.A! So why cant we help these young Iranians whom only crime was to be born in the revolution period and get rid of all these mullahs and terrorists (whom by the way were put there thanks to Jimmy Carter) and this way the whole world would be in peace and free of all evils. SO AS YOU SEE WE DID HAVE A HAND IN DESTROYING THAT COUNTRY, AND ITS ONLY FARE TO HELP THEM REBUILD IT.

As an American, I am truly sad and embarrised by some comments here (and other blogs). In a great tragedy that falls on Iranians, people who are now show their commitment in reform and change, there are some of people here who turns there back on them by talking such rot because they are from the middle east. Even worse, they make a mockery of their revolution and mentions "Obama" as part of the problem.

Its Ironic, for the past eight years, Americans were once optimistic in bringing democracy to the Middle East, but now, when the the Iranian people woke up from their oppressive regime, we don't want to get involve. And sometimes, we make horrific comments about them.

Now from what I see, Iranians prove themselves more brave and strong than the majority of adverage Americans who think they know freedom.

To the self-proclaim patriots, conservatives, and proud Americans? You think we Americans have courage, or balls?

Of course we don't, you know why? Because through the past ******* eight years we dis the world and the middle east with our mililtary power, calling for detestation and prick waving as "Spreading freedom." Want to join the army now, the government, or Blackwater to gain courage and honor? The courage of Americans today is nothing but a spec of dust compared to how the Iranians are fighting and dying for their liberties. And all this started because of over ******* oil.

No, we have no courage, the only courage we have is to rant in the internet, while people at the otherside show the world theirs. And they proved themselves.
------------------------------
A blog message from Neda's sister-
"I will participate in the demonstrations tomorrow. Maybe they will turn violent. Maybe I will be one of the people who is going to get killed..."

After Event's
"I'm here to tell you my sister died while in her father's hands
I'm here to tell you my sister had big dreams...
I'm here to tell you my sister who died was a decent person... and like me yearned for a day when her hair would be swept by the wind... and like me read "Forough" [Forough Farrokhzad]... and longed to live free and equal... and she longed to hold her head up and announce, "I'm Iranian"... and she longed to one day fall in love to a man with a shaggy hair... and she longed for a daughter to braid her hair and sing lullaby by her crib...

my sister died from not having life... my sister died as injustice has no end... my sister died since she loved life too much... and my sister died since she lovingly cared for people...

my loving sister, I wish you had closed your eyes when your time had come... the very end of your last glance burns my soul....

sister have a short sleep. your last dream be sweet."

Hey, you voted for change, McCain and Palin would of continued to spread freedom but you voted for a talker instead.

We liberated Iraq but most of the world seemed to be against it except the majority of Iraqis. Now we have Iran which if you remember I said was part of the axis of evil is killing it's own people in broad daylight.

Vote GOP next election.

Don't send the US.army ... They'll just mess things up as they always do.
Spread information, help the Iranians to be heard loudly and clearly. Thats what broke the racist regime in South Africa, thats what what gave the American blacks their rights. Speak up, make noise, so much noise that the fraudulent government in Iran hears it SO LOUD that their ears bleed.

I love my American friends, but boy you got a lot of ignorant nuts over there.

The minute a crisis develops in some far away land, one that traditionally has hated the U.S., we as a nation and a people are called upon to set things straight! Send us your troops, we love America, Obama is the greatest, and Thank You U.S. Then once the revolution has been put down and the government changed, we're spit at, shot at, kicked, and called the evil zionist infedels of the west!

I'm sorry, but we as a nation were born through our own revolution with very little help. Help that only came because France was already in a war w/ Britain.

I'm getting a bad taste in my mouth for the middle east and their constant "We Love you Us ........We HATE you U.S................Now we love you again". Go figure it out for yourself and do it on your own. How many of those so called "Students" were crossing the Iraq border to assist the insurgents in the early part of the Iraq stabilization?

Hey Iran.......you're on your own!

Stupid CNN, you just put Iranian goverment agent on the air , Mohmmaed is not a student?!

To Iranian,
I cannot agree. Despite the fact that the majority of Iranians are Muslim, many voted for the IRI simply to prevent themselves from getting shot. Furthermore, you keep referring to the 1952 coup d'etat as though it were yesterday not 50 years ago. I know that the under 30 year old's in the US consider this ancient history and so do those under 30 year olds in Iran right now.

To Sean,
I applaud your bravery and true American spirit throughout this horrid battle against those meglomaniacs which choose to impose violence on the American people and again I applaud that you pass that spirit on to Iranians fighting against the violence done to them. I have always loved the American military(our fighters) and their heroism.

I still would like the rhetoric to discontinue. It is time the IRI face up to the fact that they have failed. Stop blaming everyone else for their failures. Iranians have a mind of their own-the IRI must recognize their failures and be stopped in trying to provoke violence towards the US and Britain. We should be engaging in some sort of retaliation as a country and side with Britain. Provocation of violence by the IRI is immoral and not tolerable.

Why is it that these same protesters that have wanted us to get out of the Middle East, out of Iraq, out of Saudi Arabia, out of Israel... suddenly want us in Iran?

My vote, for what it's worth, is for us to mind our own business, build our own economy, fix our own roads, become self-reliant with respect to energy, and let the rest of the world fix its own problems. I believe that the money spent in Iraq could have rebuilt every road and school in the nation. Ours, that is. We already rebuilt all of Iraq's...

The regime stands on the backs of it's people, whipping them like animals to do the work of a regime that doesn't value their lives only their submission and labor. The people of Iraq should enact a general strike. Sanctions from with in. Deny the leadership the value of your labor. Be willing to starve before you will work for such a corrupt leader.

How can we speak up in their defense when our own election was complete with voter fraud, intimidation and allusions to racism if we didn't want to vote for the candidate of color?

How can we intervene with that in our recent history?

Sorry Skippy.Time for the USA to stand on the sidelines,like the rest of the world always does. Keep your eye's open and remember to duck .
Fight each other as hard as you can .Ask the Germans for some help !

Hrrm, personally I'm very grateful the French "meddled" in our revolution.

Hang in there. I sit at my tv and computer reading and watching this unfold. Its hard to watch peoples freedom and rights get shot down no matter the nationality religon or race they have should have the same freedoms we do. these people have been cheated by there goverment and deserve reform even if that means U.S. intervention.

As an American I support what the Iranians are doing for themselves. I believe in their cause and I believe that their government does not speak for the Iranian people. I believe the Iranian people want to participate in the world and not be isolated.
However, everytime the USA says anything regarding the middle east, we are the infidels, the great satin........I don't blame Obama for not wanted to stir up the pot. He is doing it for the Iranian people..........why can't you see that if the USA gets involved with the Iranian election, the whole story will shift to the USA interfering with the middle east. The same rhetoric all over again. I hope the Iranians succeed with thier case, I am glad the USA has decided to keep a low profile during this uprising of the Iranian people. Power to the Iranians.

My heart goes out to this person and other who think like him. But so often you see these folks on TV wishing us harm. President Obama is doing the right thing in not jumping to take sides like the Republican woild like him to do. He has already spoken out on the brutality of the Iranian people and we now need to wait and see what will happen. America need, for once, to stay out of everyones business. We have problems of our own to sought out!

Thank you all for your comments and thank you CNN for letting Mohammad's plea for help from US to be heard.
As an American Iranian, I like to ask everyone who is reading this message to please spread the words of Mohammad and am asking you to help( in any way you can). US and United Nation needs to help Iranian PEOPLE like our young brother Mohammad ( not this supressive regime of Mullahs and this fanatic islamic republic). Ask the media and our representative senators to get involve and to not only condemn this merciless act but also to help internally. Let people get better internet access and more outside TV covergae and unblock internet sites and increase communications with our Iranian brothers and sisters. Thank you and remember each one of us can make a difference and fight for freedom in our own unique ways.

Iranian people never put Americas flag on fire, it was the government and their supporters (basijis), they have the TV and power and they can decide what to show on live TV, further more the pay poor people to fire Americas flag front of live TV. I grow up Iran and I know how people think and what they want. The government and basij are not Persian, even they speak Arabic most. If people in Iran could talk and tell what they want, trust me the government was gone 15 years a go. Iranian people needed help and need help for their freedom.

Shelly

i agree 100%. but lets stop asking our creator what to do and start asking ourselves. its the creator talk that gets people these horrible regimes ruling them in the first place....look at BUSH!

Interesting point about how and who have been burning our flags and dancing in the streets for years at our expense – yet we are for freedom of all people. Its a tough call for me.

All I can say for these people is – where is Allah when you need him.

Everyone saying that people from Iran hate us, read this interview!! Achmendinijad (spelling might be wrong, but you get the point) and maybe a few iranians hate the U.S., but some people in every country hate the U.S.(I would understand why, some people here are so arrogant) but the vast majority of iranians want to befreind the U.S. and they are sane, normal, people that are tired of having a ruler that doesnt listen to them and they want a real democracy.

that is why they are protesting against iran.

Your parents made a mistake in 1979. Took over the power from Shah and handed out to those who supressed them for 30 years by the name of relegion and still slashing them out on the streets( No matter who supported them at the begining ). We all know you are looking for true democracy which allows people to dance or pray, drink Alcohol or fast, wear Hejab or mini skirts, trade with Israel or Palestine, and so forth. BUT remember there were always individuals who took advantage of your blood on the streets and made fortune out of it not for country but for themselves. BE CAREFUL THIS TIME. Your children do not want to see this sacrifice to be counted as pro-Islamic or Pro-Western movement. THIS IS IRANIAN MOVEMENT TOWARDS REAL DEMOCRACY free from Mullas or Mousavis inside and Obamas and Putins outside( with all respect to Mr. Obama's view and support ). If they show you sharp teeth, break it with your hard bones untill you get a strong fist and if they reach you out in peace and true wills, respect their rights and wishes. ZENDEH BAAD MARDOME AAZADEH ( long live free nations ).
And to our western friends ( whom Im currently living with ), unfortunately your lobbyists still believe in the old policy of Freedom for Silence in the west. If you really believe in free world ( NOT JUST free WEST ), take a look around the world and see how other nations are paying for us to be in peace. Lets share it and make it happen for every one not just you and me.

I think some people are caught up in the protests and forget that the man they are supporting is not as affectionate about America or tolerant of Israel as the majority of Iranian people (if the comments here are to be believed). About Moussavi: "He, like most Iranians in power, does not believe in the existence of Israel. He defended the taking of hostages at the U.S. Embassy in Iran in 1979, which led to the break in ties between the countries.

He was part of a regime that regularly executed dissidents and backed the fatwa against British author Salman Rushdie.

And as late as April, he opposed suspending the country's nuclear-enrichment program but said it would not be diverted to weapons use."

http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/06/15/iran.elections.analysis/index.html

This is the man the protesters are supporting. Why should Americans want to help him into power?

I am for reform and change in Iran and support the right of Iranians to protest, but I certainly would not want to see this man in power.

My fellow Americans, Iranians do not burn the American flag; the ones who are beating people on the streets of Tehran burn American flag. They burn their own people, They go to villages, bring thousands with a bus to the city, give them lunch and money and tell them to say death to America and burn American flag on international TV, those people burning the flag do not even know who's flag they are burning.Those sayin death to America have never seen an American nor they know where America is!! Please get it!!. The Devil and its illiterate supporters are running this country. Please get it!!

I left Iran two days before the elections,Obama needs to support the Iranian people to get rid of this regime.the whole world needs to support them.That is if you dont want another HITLER to rise.

There's the catch-22. If you help them then you alienate the sitting government, if you don't then you alienate the demonstrators and run the risk of their bitterness should they come to power.

As another Iranian I could say that sanctions doesn't help at all. I have no Idea how international community could help but sanctions just make things more difficult for poeple. They would get enough gasoline for their troops anyway. And I don't agree military interference either. Lots of innocent poeple gonna get killed and country will be in chaos for a long time just like what happened to Iraq. I have no idea what we should do????

I really feel for the Iranian people and I wish them luck in their struggles with their current government. But I have a feeling we (the USA) needs to stay out of direct intervention, this is an issue for Iranians to settle. The world as a whole can respond with sanctions and such but America should not take it upon itself to "right this wrong". We can't do this for them, it wouldn't last.

not just US all the world should intervene. In Iran people are loosing their lives because they don't have any thing even for defense and on the other hand we see the cruel government which is using all its power to repress the innocent people. and now what other countries are doing? just watching. countries that claim they are supporter of democracy and freedom. Please pay attention it is not the equal fight. it's the fight between innocent people without weapon and the government with all facilities. how many of them must get killed to convince the world that it's the time for other countries to help?????????????

Neda: We too love our Canadian neighbors, but do the make the mistake of referring to us as "ignorants who have never tasted oppression.". Unlike Canada, our country was born out of oppresion, and filed with immigrants who sought to escape it. And many of our own have tasted oppression within our own borders. This is why we are quick to support other who rally to gain freedom. But for our government to aggressively respond to Iran would only give the Iranian Regime more justification to crack down on the Reformers. Let our government's words be tempered, while our citizen's continue to show support in teh media and in the streets.

I am an American woman. For 2 years, when I was 19, i dated an Iranian student here in the states. Standing in the mix of that community here in the U.S. during the hostage crisis and revolution, I can tell you that there are two realities. One you see in the media, one in real life. The people of Iran have been living in fear for many decades. Before the revolution, there was the brutality of the Shah, and hopes for freedom dashes with Khomeni. People are people. As a young person then, and older (and wiser) now, I came to see Iranians first, as very smart, proud, and yet terrified human beings. Think out of the box! If you lived under the confines of brutal dictatorship for several decades, you would also think twice before resisting orders to burn flags, chant slogans, attend pro-government rallies. I remember Iranian women attending universities here, feeling compelled to where the chador. Not out of religious ideology, but for fear word would get back to Iran that they weren't obeying the "rules of Islam" and that family members there might exact a price for their disobedience.That these young people protesting in Iran have spent their entire lives under the threat of violence, it is miraculous that they have the courage they are showing. They are not asking for our military support, they are asking for us to recognize the "Iran within Iran". The Iran that has shouted to be heard for the last thirty years. I commend them all!!

Liberate Iran? There is way too much crack in America these days. Nothing short of a nuclear-armed missile pointed at Tel Aviv will ever make that happen. I find this Iranian drama to be inspiring. Iranians will get their freedom…eventually. These things take time. Don’t worry. More sanctions on your country are coming. The Iranian Government is still at odds with the US, Europe and now, half of it’s own people. They will not withstand forever. This is just another (painful) step in a long journey from colonialism. It’s now time for the dust to settle and your moderates to push the envelope. The past does not matter. At the end of the day Americans and Iranians are a lot more alike than was ever advertised. Who would have thought it could be possible? It was a good thing for America’s coach potatoes to see a slightly bigger view of the world than the typical right wing rhetoric from both countries.

How are we to know this "Mohammed" is who he claims? What if he's a plant by the the Ahmadinejad government to draw the U.S. and others into doing exactly what they are trying to claim, and thereby give them a pretext for even more violent repression? Mohammed's answers were just a bit too glib and vague for my taste.

I do think that something should be done to help the people of Iran, but I dont think that the US should jump in and rescue them. We have too many other problems of our own to worry about. And this is also why other countries despise us, bc we cant mind our own business!! We stick our noses where it doesnt belong. Yes my heart cries out for the peolpe of Iran, but this is not our election and it's not our fight.

I am an Iranian Canadian. Here is what I am afraid will happen: The western world is not going to do anything about this. They will try to negotiate with these animals hoping to persuade them not to develop nukes. They won't succeed but then they still won't do anything (other than pity sanctions). Once Iranian government has nukes, people like Khamenei and Ahmadinejad won't hesitate to use them against US and Israel. Why? Because they have the same mentality as the psychopaths that blew up the world trade centre. Once a city in US is leveled they in turn will wipe the entire country of Iran off the map.

So let's see how this worked out: Thousands if not millions of innocent people die in the west and an entire nation that has been taken hostage by a group of brain washed (and that is what they are) fanatics pays the price for it.

To the people who think Iranians should rise up: Let’s see you send your son or daughter unarmed to be slaughtered by a bunch of savages. In this modern world you can't stay indifferent. 911 should have though us that.

Obama talks, talks, talks every day – even Jon Stewart took him to task for being in front of us almost 24/7 since being elected. Except, of course, when talk really matters. Then he's mum.

What an embarrassment of a president.

"CNN STOP this irresponsible reporting. "

LAWLZ! You just said that to the people who published that Big Foot was found on their frontpage!

ROFLCOPTERS!

U.S. elections were never rigged as it is a historical fact that Bush won FL by a small margin in 2000 irrespective of the Supreme Court's involvement. I am sorry to have to keep posting info that strikes down these endless liberal myths ("tax cuts for the rich," "torture," "unauthorized invasion of Iraq," etc. - all lies).

Obama is a coward and should resign. Its just that simple. You cannot go from "community organizer" to President without paying some dues (or taxes ala his criminal cabinet).

No one has done more damage to this country or told more lies in such a short period of time as Obama. Vote for personal responsibility, vote for impeachment!

The young generation of Iran wants to be heard. They dont want to be suppressed. The rulers of Iran will ultimately have to bring some reforms. For example many women of Iran want to wear burqa but they dont want anyone forcing them to wear it.

I think these events have given a voice to a part of Iran that the general public never gets to hear. The technological advances of our time have finally made it difficult for corrupt and totalitarian governments to continue to suppress its people.

Jackie,

You may want to try to understand history a little better. He did not burn our flag on TV. The people like the ones who voted for Ahmadinejad burned our flag. You just did not know better until now. Don't stereotype just b/c he is Iranian. You still don't get it. That is what they are trying to say, that all that WAS NOT them. They are trying to communicate to the world that this regime has never represented its people.

To make such comments (i.e. Don't forget that they burned our flag, shouting Death to America) is an absolute mockery and insult to the Iranian people who are risking their lives in pursuit of innate rights we in this country enjoy on a daily basis but rarely every appreciate. Three-fifths of Iranians are not even old enough to remember the Islamic Revolution of 1979–are we going to judge an entire people by the actions of their country nearly 3 decades ago? That's like telling someone to judge the United States by its actions just 4 decades ago when schools, buses, restaurants, etc were still segregated.

Kudos to the students for their bravery. The first thought I had when I seen this was "these people are risking theat of injury or death marching and protesting for what they believe in and we Americans sat by idolly as George W. and his cronies stole the last two elections and look where that left us". Regardless of our differences the Iranian people, their safety, and their future is in my daily prayers. God Bless America and may he watch over the Iranian people during their plight.

I hope the Iranian people can overthrow that regime and create a government that is democratic and secular. Hopefully the former crown prince of Iran can help facilitate this process if the regime is overthrown. I am not sure what would have to happen for this take place. We need to be putting pressure on the Iran's government right now to do anything possible to make this happen.

A democratic secular government can help limit Islamic extremism, funding to Hezbollah, foreign fighters in Iraq, and so much more.

I doubt any country that is led by a Muslim will get involved with over throwing another Islamic state. That is why the Great Messiah has not supported the new revolution in Iran. Good luck, but looks like you're going at it alone.

concerning the Obama thread of thoughts here:

I was just happy to see that US: became a Democracy again.

The Polish helped in our revolution,far more than the french.

I am astounded with some of the ignorance by the posters and readers of CNN. So many of you generalize and summarize that you are coming off as completely fools. Why must you constantly lump everyone together?

Speak your mind, write your thoughts, give your opinions, but at the very least, read what you write, be accountable.

B22 – How can we intervene with that in our recent history? Huh? Get me facts of huge voter irregularities, so much so that it was FRAUD. It was COMPLETE? Do tell.

Dan – How is it that you know it's the same protesters? Why must you lump everyone in the same country together? Are all Americans the same? Do we all bear the same opinions? I think not. Just as I think your comments are baseless and without thought and fraught with ridicule, you come off as such a complete utter fool.

No. I respect the courage of the students and all, and in fact I support their push to be heard. However, I'm sick of seeing America get dragged into Middle Eastern problems only to be blamed and branded as "evil" by everyone we try to help. I'm also sick of seeing other developed nations just stand around. Perhaps instead of singling out the USA and our president, these groups need to demand that the United Nations get off its backside and do something. America isn't the only nation in the world with a military, nor are we the only one that knows something needs to be done.

Looks like bad timing. If they had done this during the Bush administration he would have had troops over there in a heart beat but I don't think Obama will do that.

Unfortunately the U.S. has played world cop since the end of WWII and it has helped bankrupt us and caused the death and injury of many of our soldiers look at Korea and Vietnam. South Korea would like U.S. forces to leave and we can't do much about North Korea for the same reason in the 1950's: China. So nothing has really changed. Vietnam did well under a capitalistic form of communism after we left it alone. It seems like when we leave people alone and let them choose their own form of government they work it out better when we mind our own business.

After all...all of the old Soviet Union Eastern Block nations as well as most the satellite countries under the oppressor foot of "mother Russia" gained freedom after the financial fall of Soviet Communism are now free and we didn't have to fire a shot.

The best way we as a nation can bring freedom to places like Iran is to use less and less of the fossil fuel that they sell including the rest of the middle east. With less and less money their power will dry up along with their economy and their own people will "throw the bums out."

Three cheers for the freedom lovers in Iran but you can do it yourselves by making the ayatollahs get a real job like digging ditches or cleaning toilets and giving people like Ahmadinejab "a Jasper Texas Ride" behind a very fast camel.

A reply from Iran: who burned your flag? you should learn the monority that used to demonstrate to burning american and israel flags on T.V ,they are shooting our people on streets now.i thought you americans are more intelligent than judge in this manner.actually they are paid for their acts.by supporting khamenei as hypocrite persons ,burning your flags,killing people on streets,...
Iranian people always condemn this minority .
but if i want to be honest & realistic ,and if we as Iranian people want to be intelligent and honest we don t expect help from you and your goverments.
you know what i am talking about ! politics is too complicated and politicians behave in dirty ways.
regards to you all !

I can't stand all these people that think we should be tough on Iran and hope for regime change that respond with "well they took hostages" or
"they burned our flag" when the time comes to support the people. Are you really that ignorant? Most of those anti-US demonstrations are staged events...do you think the average person in Iran really hates Americans any more than the average American would hate some person in Iran that only wants to make a living and have a decent place to raise their kids? These people just want the same things as everybody else. Hate the government but don't hate the people. Based on how we've behaved for the past 8 years we should be the last ones lecturing anybody else and holding grudges that are 30 years old. Should the US get directly involved in what's going on? No. But as a country that had its own revolution we should at least be a little more supportive of people living in oppression no matter where there are.

It doen't matter how many times people in Iran have burned American flags and protested in the street with hate speech for us. We only see what the Iranian government wants us to see. That has been proven with the protest that are going on right now. They have shut everything media down in that country so the outside world doesn't see the protesting. It doesn't matter how bad they have treated us. Our president, who was elected by a free society should have the back bone to at least step up to the plate and condeem what is going on. When will this country wake up, when you are having to riot in the streets for your freedom because the government you elected has taken your rights away. Please America show some compassion.

I think this website sums it up, to be honest - http://www.saveiran.com

“The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” - Thomas Jefferson

If they really want freedom, they will have to fight for it. The cost will be enormous.

Obviously Irans leaders & President Ahmadinejad have removed their masks & are showing their true colors of just how evil they & their so called Peaceful Islam Muslim Religious Government really are by hiring Terrorist Militia to wrongfully slaughter their own people. They probably also even paid all the voters who did vote for Ahmadinejad. For the whole world heard them all Chant Death to America, Brittan & Isreal on Friday which sounds just like true Jihadi Terrorists. Irans Natzi Hitler Leaders & President don't like it that their people & our news media are exposing their dishonorable deception & evil Government Leadership to the world & their inability to brainwash, supress, control & dictate to the citizens of Iran currently so this is their punishment to them in return. Their egos won't let them show weakness by backing down, they would rather be Natzi Hitler Terrorist murderers. Injured Iranian people are afraid to go to the hospital there for treatment because their HEALTH CARE IS GOVERNMENT RUN, FEDERAL HEALTH CARE REFORM, and they are afraid of the kind of treatment they would get might harm them more & of being arrested should they seek health care now. Also, how sad these citizens of Iran can only throw rocks in defense at these Government Hired Terrorist Militia because obviously their Government has taken away their 2nd Amendment Rights to bear arms.

It would appear to Americans that Obama & our Government are trying to force these same policies on us in America & copy & make America like the middle East Governments policies, controls & takeovers by forcing America to adopt a Federal Health Care Reform also & by taking away Americas 2nd Amendment Rights to bear arms, etc. What's happening in Iran is just one reason we don't want Obama & his administration policies here in America. Vote No on Federal Health Care Reform & any bans on our rights to bear arms here in America.

I don't believe America fully understand the Muslim world and the middle eastern in general yet. That is why whenever and whatever we do, backfires.
What is going on in Iran right now is a start of a middle east revolution. Even that we don't understand, nor should we proceed to pretend we understand by crying to say "WE are Americans-we are responsible for other's freedom; thus we need to intervene". We don't even understand what "Iranian freedom" means. Sure, we hear from all sorts of people on this blog that Iranians want freedom, but eh?? what is that? Let us not be pigheaded and assume, "I am an American therefore I know what is good for you!" Let us stand back a bit. The Iranians are creating their own history; they will be a unique voice in the middle east . . . they will be heroes if they succeed. Perhaps that is why we want to intervene? We want to be the heroes, not them?

I am shocked at how many people can't actually read the transcript before jumping to comment.

This kid asked for sanctions. Never was there a mention of asking for anyone, from any country, to go into the country and fight, arm, or otherwise get involved in an internal struggle.

It seems a lot of people want to project the comments to be what they want them to be, so they can argue against whatever they projected.

I know the educational system is a disaster, but before commenting, try reading!

"My message…to the international community, especially I’m addressing President Obama directly – how can a government that doesn’t recognize its people’s rights and represses them brutally and mercilessly have nuclear activities? This government is a huge threat to global peace. Will a wise man give a sharp dagger to an insane person? We need your help international community. Don’t leave us alone."

Obama has been good with single word quotes about events and stating an open hand to the world. It's time to show that an open hand also slaps others who offend humanity. Pres, Obama get up and address to the UN and remember this protesters words when dealing with N. Korea. It's time for the World (not just the US) to put a stop to these countries. Information as to why pours from visible wounds the World can see and should rush forward to stop and heal. To sit still to protect any nation's name in a region is a vote supporting those brutal regimes. Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Saudi Arabia and Israel is one leadership anywhere in the world worth the suffering of God's children?

All it takes " do not buy oil from Iran" , the system will collapse in a matter of weeks.

It was a different generation of Iranaians, and a small percentage at that who effected the regime change in 1979. The current generation will not put up with the persecution of freedoms by this current president and Islamic backed cleric. Unfortunately, the U.S. does not have the bandwidth this moment to help in the Iranian situation even if it wanted to. The Revolutionary Guard is not Saddam Hussein's Special Forces.. These guys are good. You think we lost good men and women in Iraq? That would be nothing compared to if we went into Iran......We need to stick with openly supporting from the sidelines and things may change just like in Germany in 1989.

Jack Q is a moron.

The good and decent majority of Iran do not burn American flags. Stop watching Fox news all day you idiot. You are probably more conservative, ignorant, insular, and intolerant than the majority of Iran!

Thankfully this protest for democracy and a fair government has finally shown all the ignorant Americans who haven't met anyone or been to Iran, that most Iranians, especially the vast majority of the younger generation just want to live in peace and be international allies with the West. The majority are rational, tolerant, trendy average people who actually love the culture of the West, and would love to travel in western Europe and the United States.

The crazed protesters chanting "Death to America" are the tiny minority of religious and political extremists, and most of the time even those protests are artificial setup by the state and shown on state TV to show "support" for the oppressive regime.

It is time for the oppressive Islamic theocracy to fall and for all Iranians to have freedom with a democratic government that can lead them into the future as a partner to the international community!

I agree too, we respect our freedom and remember every year the cost of FREEDOM!!! The cost of our men and women over the many years to keep our freedom and it means something very special.
Iran needs to fight for their freedom so it will last a life time! The freedom they had to fight for and not just given to them to take advantage of. They will remember their own brothers and sisters life forever and their kids will remember too..........................

"GW Bush called Iran, Iraq and North Korea the axis of evil. He was lambasted by the media, Dems and liberals in this country and abroad. Saddam was not the nicest of guys, wheather or not he had WMD. Now we have N. Korea with missiles aimed at Hawaii, and an oppressive regime in Iran stifling any dissent amonst it’s people. Are any of the Dems / liberals willing to admit that GW was right on at least this one item? I know he was wrong on many others.

Everyone would have to agree if Bush was president we’d probably be in Iran now freeing the people from a repressive regime… might not have been the greatest or best entry but we’d be in there…."

You people realize that a big part of the reason why there has been an uprising is because of Obama's historic speech reaching out to Muslims everywhere? In a polar opposite approach to Bush's condemnation of his enemies, Obama opened up a line of communication and willingness that went against every bit of propaganda Khamenei and Ahmadinejad. What this did was undermine their propaganda.

Once we stopped acting like they expected us to (like stupid warmongering imperialistic cowboys on a Crusade), they took notice, and wanted to give us a second chance to earn their trust. Not just their leadership, but their people. Obama is taking the right approach. With the US staying out of it, this revolution to overthrow their theocracy has more legitimacy in the eyes of their population. They may want our help, but it would undermine their cause and any chance they have of winning over the conservatives who are staunchy anti-American. They will need everyone's support, even the conservatives at some point if they want national reform.

By all means, intervene. Instability in an oil rich nation like Iran will drive my oil stocks through the roof again! War in the Middle East is about EXPENSIVE oil, not cheap oil! Plus, war is GOOD for the economy, creating jobs and opportunity.

Seriously, though, I suspect the Iranians are more than able to sort this out for themselves. Sooner or later, the evidence will be overwhelming that the elections were rigged, and the Ayatollah will through the nutcase President to the mob to save his own butt.

This is a tip of the iceburg. I believe the vast majority of Iranians feel as Mohammad. We aren't meddling to protect the Iranians; but now the violence is changing that. We wasted our time in a Iraq war when the people that truely want our help is asking for it, we now have no resolve.

Cry, cry and cry again as we bury our heads in our pillows. We delay; we allow more death. Neda is the ralling call. Innocent death as we don't meddle.

My hearth goes out to the Iranian people, and I pray to our God that things get better. Those of us whom come from conflicted countries understand Iranians pleas to the International Community, and specially the United States, but President Obama is doing the right thing not getting involve YET, there has to be a balance before the rest of the world intervenes. If done to early then it'll seem like the world is stepping over their sovereignty, and if it's done too late it could be catasthrophic for the Iranian people. Remember that every time the US gets involved too soon we get blamed for whatever happens afterwards, unfortunately there will loss of life, but hopefulle their sacrifice will not be in vain. And for those who only writte non sense, educate yourselves and open your hearth to our brother and sisters in Iran, and before you speak of burning flags remember that we also have here in the US extreme racism, and terrorism as well. Remember the shooting at the Holocaust museum a few weeks ago and the Oklahoma bombing, so we are not free from radical extremists either.

This is not the time to go in with emotion. As Americans we have to empathize and give our vocal support, but nothing more.

You need to understand the history there, and the fact that the people in power overthrew a government that the West, meaning the US and UK, put in power that destroyed a democracy that was once there.

The current Regime feeds off of that mistrust of the West, and ANY intervening on our part will only illegitimize the struggle these people are putting forth. Do what we are doing with Sanctions and restrictions, get other nations to follow.

Eventually this government will have to fall to the people, either by internal political pressure, economic pressures, or just them bankrupting themselves and the nation in trying to build nuclear weapons they cannot afford.

Its a population of college students, where the average age is only 27. they don't remember the revolution, and they care more about the external world and freedom than the current regime, who falsely assumed they were as ignorant and easily molded as the previous generation that was duped.

PS......By the way, there are many of we educated Americans who understand that the majority of Iranians oppose the government who spouts off at every moment against the United States. Similarly, when the US invaded Iraq in 2003, a good majority of Americans shook their heads and asked why we would do this. Saddam was not the threat which destoyed two buildings in New York and part of a government facility in Arlington, VA. Our government spoke for us even as we the American people spoke out against that war. Sometimes governments do not always reflect the opinion of the general public. I think this to be true in Iran right now also. We as Americans cannot be blind to these transparent concepts anymore.

We must be patient as the American People and sad to say, let the situation implode until we have the support of the Middle East including Saudi Arabia, Israel and yes the British. How many of you recall that the British requested permission from the Bush administration to fly over Iraqi air space and drop a few bombs. Of corse the President denied and I'm not knocking that but we are fighting many Wars right now. I believe In the people of Iran and I hope when the time is right we can move in swiftly and justly to help that Nation and bring a Democratic Society to its strenght.

Interesting that we (American) has sat by for 20 years while entire villages are destroyed in Africa and did nothing or little (by any administration of the past.) .to even think of helping the people of Iran after 1 week of student protesting is beyond ridiculous.

There has been no peace in the middleast since the death of Christ...over 2000 years...no help from American or any international community can help thnow or ever. That is why we should get out and stay out...completely.

Daniel, we had a revolution. Iranians can't figure out things amongst themselves. See the difference?

Why Should the US stick their nose in another country's corrupt election.. Nobody stuck their nose into your corrupt election in 2000
when W stole the election.

There is nothing more pathetic than seeing Americans complain about the mortgage and the car and the medicine they can't afford and wanting the government to bail them out like Obama did for the filthy rich executives.

Well, the editor for Newsweek saying that Obama is god is just as pathetic. Yes, Democrats are destroying America, turning it into a socialist state where there is no personal responsibility, only government bailouts.

Get a clue, get off welfare (corporate or otherwise), plan for your own future, and try to take a little responsibility. You don't have to become a Republican to act like a man.

Not all Iranians burned our flag – jut like not all Americans support Obama.

There I hope for the world after all.

I personally feel Obama is doing the right thing his stratergy is bang on. Republicans have their views and will be accounted for. Obama is right, its the peoples fight but at the same time i support the republicans on their views of intervention at times , but overall i stand by Obama. This is a war from within and has to be dealt with in their own way. Mohammad we the people of the world are with you no matter what. Victory belongs to the most percievaring. The help will come but not in the ways of war it will come diplomatically and through sanctions. Patience is a virtue and victory is certain. Sometimes time is its own healer and this is the time we have to wait. and standdown. ( And i Quote message to the republicans and everyone against the Obama administration " Trust in your President for he knows what he is doing is right. You ll had your chance but now its his. Respect your leader. Cause i quote again " REAL POWER NEVER SCREAM FOR ATTENTION" ). To me a great nation is " a nation that can learn to keep its power "

I don't think that that the U.S. should intervene alone, nor should they invade Iran. The only way that Iran will survive, is unfortunately to fight this war by themselves. It will unite and strengthen the country as a whole... It hurts me saying it, but I don't think that the U.S should meddle. President Obama is handling the situation very well, believe it or not.

HOWEVER, I do agree with Mohammad in saying that the world as a WHOLE needs to sanction the Iranian government and support the people by NOT recognizing the current Iranian government. A sanction on exporting gasoline is a great idea. It will absolutely help Iranians win their battle... If there is no invasion, then as a world we must help the Iranian people indirectly– we must discredit the government. They need our help!!

We cannot just stand back and continue to watch the horrible abuse on human rights in Iran!! It's inhumane, cruel and unusual punishment–

More than 1/2 the population of Iran weren't BORN during the Iranian hostage crisis. Believe me that situation burned me up too but these are the people who are OPPOSING the people who did that. I support them and hope they gain their freedom.

I really don't know why this is so hard to figure out. These peoples' signs are in English, folks. This idea that "we can't get involved because we'll become a foil for the regime" is ridiculous.

Besides, recognizing right from wrong is hardly "getting involved" or "meddling". I don't want to see any sort of military engagement or anything else along those lines with Iran. But championing freedom and denouncing tyranny is, and always has been, the heart of Americanism.

I'll never understand why our president is watching silently as this goes on.

Sanctions and a firmer response can only be done with the rest of the middle east pretty much in the lead.

The problem with that is, Saudi Arabia, for example, is being run the very same way, with a few elite, basically, dictatorships. So they are going to go in and tell Iran what they are doing is wrong? Most of the other countries do the same thing. They dont want their lower class people getting any ideas on their own freedom.

This is why they are quiet, as is China, and if they want to maintain their power, they have to shut up.

I would like CNN to interview the Iraqi youth on how they feel about the US intervention in their country. I support the Iranian Reform movement and resent the CNN's hijacking of it. I say to Mohammad that this movement deserves more respect than to be begin the Americans through CNN and to ask him if he understands the that US is already intervening in the matters by having had invested over $400 million on this matter, and to the "Iranian-Americans", let us quietly support our youth and stop buying into the American brand of democracy. Show me one case where the US has helped the masses without considering their own gains and let us not forget that the US has much to gain by destabilizing Iran and therefore the region.

I wish I could have more compassion for the Iranian people. History was made 30 years ago when the exiled leader of the "reform" movement in 1979 returned to a hero's welcome. Mousauvi was one of those celebrating the return of an Islamic Revolution. Now the people of Iran want the west to step in and help the Islamic Republic reform. All I can say, reform yourselves you chose this government 30 years, choose a different form of government by over throwing the current one then maybe we'll talk.

The caller's statements sound questionable, especially for one who's not leading protest activities.

The United States got into their second Vietnam with Iraq. It was based on cartoon drawings presented at the United Nations and whose goals changed from WMD to Taliban to Al Queda and then the Liberation of the Iraqi people with a round trip back to the reasoning of the US Security. American people are still dizzy from that experience. Thousands of Young American soldiers have died and hundreds of thousands of Iraqi civilians. Once bitten, twice shy. Now we are asking for their blood again.
Although, this is truly a legitimate crisis, most Americans are not aware about the Iranian way of life and its political atmosphere. They still relate the flag burning and "Death to America" chants to all Iranians. It's not their fault if the media has presented this image continuously for 30 years. The talking heads always use Iranians to mean all Iranians and for the first time, I am seeing that these same talking heads are beginning to finally distinguish the difference. From the comments on this post, it’s obvious that most cannot believe that a change of regime could really mean change, and again, we can’t blame them. If world politics was as highly available as sports and entertainment information to the American public, we would not see some of the messages we are seeing above. Americans Citizens mean well and always have, they are for most part not in the know and their empathy has been taken advantage of. Whenever they tried for the better good of another, they've been misled by their own and have lost in a big way. If you don't agree, then ask yourself why the Second World War was called the last good war. Everyone believed in something and didn’t feel mislead even after it ended.
The Iranian Government has not represented Iranian “people” since the Iran/Iraq war, but who in the West knew this? As a matter of fact, the war was continued needlessly to distract attention from internal problems. It's hard to distinguish the government from the people at this point, and it is inspiring to see those of you who do. I raise my hat to you. Ahmadi-Nejad is not Iran and his beliefs are that of a radical ruling class and the uneducated class that can be controlled with radical beliefs. If a week of unrest at the risk of losing your life has not proven that, then there is little that they can do to prove otherwise. For those who argue that this is a small minority of the educated and the middle class, just remember that the vote was bought and paid for to the poorer classes by government aids through the budget available to Ahmadi -Nejad. That vote can sway both ways depending on who is reaching out to them, and Mousavi has no such resource.
But still, it's American blood that might have to help to pay for this freedom and I for one can understand the reluctance. The sad fact is that Iraq should have never been the target of such a precious resource and has done nothing for world peace but a great deal for the control of oil flow. If that resource was applied to this brutal regime, we could have had a better Middle East. But one has to really think and ask, is a peaceful Middle East truly what the global powers desire? With the rise of China and India as world economic powers, what would the stable Middle East with its oil rich resources mean to them? Why is China digging in Africa for Oil, when it’s right next to the richest oil fields in the world? The truth is sadly that a Democratic independent Iran is not what the West wants either. A well trained puppet leader might be more beneficial in such a case, but this time the people of Iran will fight against that too as they have already had the puppet Shah. I have no answers, but thought a little insight might help wipe away the hate and clear the vision for those who still believe that Iran is that of the 1979 revolution and hostage takers.
As an Iranian American, I can tell you that most Iranian love the west and what it stands for, but what they don’t want is to be ruled by the west. They would love the fusion of the cultures to move forward. Maybe the first Internet Revolution is a proof of this.
If the objective is to open the doors for freedom and democracy and good relations that will only flourish, this is the time to help; if the objective is to gain control of the oil and setup a puppet regime, then it might be better to leave the innocent to the batons of the cruel regime, as that is only buying time for the next revolt….although I think some like me, might even be happy with this rather than the horror being witnessed. Remember, the true horror of jails and torture are not being televised.
Either way, you are looking at the truth for a change. This is a desire for real change and outlet of decades of restrain. These are the heroes that we’ve replaced with science fiction super heroes. It’s hard to see it from the American point of view, as we’ve lost connection to our own real heroes, but these are the Washington, Jefferson and Adams of the 21st Century; their weapons this time are cell phones, internet and rocks.

How can anyone want to turn there back on Iran... There people want to make there country strong and stable and the world is not helping... How can any of us say we are civilized if we allow countrys to control who the keep in power. This is the worlds time to help the people of Iran and make them a freind and stop treating them like a fo... I love my country and will do anything for it but i am heart broken to see that we have not yet stepped in.

My husband is a famous singer who was born in Iran. Iranian people have never wanted this regime, they are an intelligent, cultured, brave society. We have always controlled them through back doors, no one can not say that the US hasn't always been involved in Middle East policy. The Shah was put there by the US and then when it is of no avail to them anymore they disappear. These people are not using weapons, they are not savage, they are standing up for freedom with as little as stones. YES we should help them,, it is at the very least a human rights travesty that is occuring. Khameni and the entire Islamic Regime is not their for the people. The people are afraid to speak out, they always have been. My husband, who is famous around the world wrote this song for the iranian youth, LOOK At THE PICTURES and tell me that someone does not need to step in.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kz8cPu0YvOY

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