Iranian TV Features the Violence of Protesters against Security Forces

Following are excerpts from an Iranian TV report on demonstrators' violence against regime forces, which aired on Channel 2, Iranian TV, on June 24, 2009.

Voice of anchor: Thanks to information provided by people, at least two of the instigators of these riots were arrested.

Reporter: This footage has greatly wounded the feelings of the public, showing people a small part of the reality behind these riots. People of clear conscience showed admiration and honor for this brave woman, who came to the defense of the attacked man – beyond any expectation – and they were shocked by the merciless cruelty of the attackers.

One question arises: This attacker, who is now being held by the law, thanks to the information provided by people – what was his motive and reason for attacking so mercilessly?

Rioter (sitting in studio): I was upset. That's all. Those who know me are aware that I am not a violent person. On the scene, unfortunately, I was untypically angry.

Reporter: He says that during the attack on this defenseless man, he was angry. The more important question concerns the reason for his great anger. His answer to this question is worthy of consideration. It shows what horrible rumors spread in society. That man got so mad when he heard the rumor about the killing of a student called Mohsen Imani.

Rioter: When I reached the faculty, I saw an announcement about it, and unfortunately, this had a negative effect on me. As I was walking along, it made me angry, and I couldn't get him out of my mind. He was young. All this played a major role in provoking my feelings.

Reporter: Do you remember Mohsen Imani? Along with four other students, he was pronounced dead by some websites. At least five mourning ceremonies were held in their honor.

Mohsen Imani: I am Mohsen Imani, a student at Tehran University. Some news websites announced that I had been killed during the incidents on the campus on Sunday, the 24th of Khordad. But I was not there on that day. I don't live on campus.

reporter: Let's contemplate these images once again. People who spread rumors and provoke emotions, thus creating such scenes – are they not accountable before God and the people?