In an interview with Hawzah News Agency, Hojatoleslam Hossein Ahmadi Shahroudi emphasized that recent unrest in the country was exploited by foreign enemies to create widespread insecurity, weaken national unity, and attempt to sow divisions within Iran. “Yet our people have shown that despite economic challenges and legitimate grievances, they remain steadfast in defending the homeland, the revolution, and the Islamic system, and by God’s will, they have thwarted the enemies’ plots,” he said.
Hojatoleslam Shahroudi noted that foreign actors mistakenly assumed that domestic economic pressures would prevent the public from mobilizing in support of the government. “They thought they could carry out acts of terrorism and spread fear easily, but the Iranian nation once again demonstrated its vigilance, insight, and decisiveness in confronting the enemy’s schemes,” he added.
The cleric also highlighted the remarks of the Supreme Leader in his message of gratitude to the Iranian people for the historic January 12 rallies, underscoring the need to pay careful attention to his guidance.
While acknowledging the presence of legitimate criticisms toward government officials, Shahroudi stressed that authorities must heed lawful public demands and work to resolve deficiencies. “The seminary and clergy have consistently acted as watchdogs and advocates, safeguarding national and Islamic unity while supporting the people’s rightful demands,” he said.
He further explained that constructive criticism is not opposition to the system itself, but rather a call to correct policies and methods to better serve the nation, the revolution, and the people. “During the tenure of the late President Raisi, such oversight was actively exercised, and it must continue to ensure the strengthening and preservation of the system,” Shahroudi said.
Highlighting the deep loyalty of the Iranian people to the revolution and the Supreme Leader, he noted that participants in the January 12 demonstrations reflected this devotion across social and religious lines. “Both religious individuals, such as women in chador, and those less visibly religious, took part, demonstrating profound affection for the Leader and an uncompromising commitment to defend the homeland, the revolution, and the Islamic system,” he said.
Hojatoleslam Shahroudi concluded by stressing the responsibility of clerics and officials to serve the public, work to resolve societal problems, and strive for divine satisfaction and the eventual reappearance of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance). “This event is a reminder that the people remain deeply connected to the system, the revolution, and the clergy, and it is our duty to act diligently in their service,” he said.
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