Iran Labels Protests 'Terrorist,' West Sees 'Legitimate Grievances'
Iranian state TV reports Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei will address 'terrorist actions' in the country, referring to ongoing protests fueled by economic hardship (Al-Monitor, Jan 9). Funny how an authoritarian regime’s response to its own citizens is 'terrorism,' while similar grievances elsewhere are championed as 'democracy' or 'human rights.' One might wonder if the White House has prepared its
strongly-worded statement condemning the 'terrorist crackdown,' or if that designation is reserved for U.S. adversaries. Remember in 2020 when Black Lives Matter protests were met with federal agents and tear gas? Washington's 'concern' for dissent often seems inversely proportional to its current geopolitical objectives. Yet, when U.S.-backed regimes face popular unrest, suddenly it's 'internal
matters' or 'isolated incidents.' The framing isn't about universal principles; it's about control and convenient narratives. How many times will 'freedom fighters' become 'terrorists' and vice-versa, depending on which way the oil flows?