Speaking during this week's Friday prayers sermon in Tehran, Hojjatoleslam Mohammad Javad Haj Ali Akbari pointed to the recent protest rally by traders and shopkeepers, saying that the Islamic Republic of Iran considers as legitimte protest against economic problems.
Stating that the Islamic government admits to these livelihood problems, he added, "Solving these issues is on the agenda of the government and is at the top of the priorities. In such sensitive circumstances, we must carefully go ahead to overcome these challenges with a deep understanding of the various aspects of the issue and with a collective and wise action."
Emphasizing the distinction between legitimate protest and riots, Haj Ali Akbari noted, Protest is the natural right of the people and there is no doubt about it, but legitimate protest depends on rationality and adherence to legal frameworks."
The Friday prayer leader in Tehran also said, "The enemy's obvious plot is to turn economic problems into a security crisis. Those who did not achieve their goals in the 12-day war are openly declaring today that they are pinning their hopes on internal unrest."
He called on the government to listen to the legitimate demands of the protesters, while deal a heavy blow to the rioters who have been trained.
MNA/6710087
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