It was the will of the Iraqi people and the religious authorities. [The elections] were the result of pressure by Ayatollah Sistani, by the Iraqi religious authorities, and by the fighting forces in Iraq on America. They left the US no choice but to allow the elections.
AKBAR HASHEMI RAFSANJANIThe problem is that the Iraqi people are facing atrocities from both sides – Zarqawi and also the American troops at times.
More Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani Quotes
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We did not treat the Americans badly. They left Iran in a relaxed mood.
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I think the elections have gone well, although there is so much insecurity in Iraq. So far during the counting of ballots.
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The Zarqawi groups uses car bombs, the Americans use other bombs. You also know what they do in the prisons.
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Condi Rice talks tough but she cannot be tough herself.
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The United States is a big country but unfortunately it seems it has the brain of a little bird not befitting the greatness of the country.
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Passing a tough resolution or threatening Iran will not bring about the desired outcome.
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We have no problems with Jews and highly respect Judaism as a holy religion.
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We don’t have any bad memories of the people of the United States.
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Iran is determined to use peaceful nuclear technology and no intimidation or threat can make us give it up.
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I was president then. I’m not president now. When I said it, this would be a sign of goodwill to begin the talks.
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It is wrong to even compare such actions to what is done in Guantanamo or elsewhere by the Americans. They do not stand on a high moral platform to preach to others.
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This democracy… The elections in Iraq were held despite the American opposition.
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Things like unemployment, which the youth are suffering from, and the rate of inflation – these are chronic conditions and we have to solve them.
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The possibility of a war under the current circumstances is not far-fetched and there is some evidence for that.
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The problem is that the Iraqi people are facing atrocities from both sides – Zarqawi and also the American troops at times.
AKBAR HASHEMI RAFSANJANI