By Nir Boms and Shayan Arya
Executive Summary
- Despite propaganda, the Islamic Republic of Iran has not been the promised utopia of religious and social harmony. Instead, religious buildings are routinely demolished and dissidents executed.
- Iran is remarkably diverse. 10-15m people are Sunni muslims; there are also Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, and Baluchis as well in the country. This means Iran is a real patchwork society.
- – Attempts at moderation have largely been a failure and in Baluchistan, there is much unrest. Violence is common.
- – Indeed, the Islamic Republic of Iran is a religiously repressive regime and Muhammad Khatami’s statements about peaceful coexistence cannot be believed.