Obama Hostile Remarks, Propaganda Hype

Friday, January 27, 2012

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman says US President Barack Obama's threat to use military force against Iran over the country's peaceful nuclear program is only meant for propaganda purposes.

Ramin Mehmanparast said that Obama's remarks in his annual State of the Union address were part of his election campaign ahead of the upcoming presidential polls in the United States.

He further stated that the US president's hostile remarks towards Iran sought to cover up the failures of his presidency by diverting attention towards Iran.

During his State of the Union address before a joint session of Congress on January 24, Obama once again renewed threats against Iran, saying that Washington will maintain pressure on the Islamic Republic over its nuclear program.

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman has also condemned the mounting violence in Bahrain where government forces have killed and injured many protesters.

Mehmanparast also deplored the silence of regional countries and international community over the suppression of peaceful protests in Bahrain.

Western powers and international bodies must stop contradictory attitude and double standard policies toward the developments in the region, he said.

He emphasized that the presence of foreign forces in Bahrain would not resolve the crisis in the country.

The Iranian spokesperson expressed hope the Bahraini government would exercise more restraint, avoid violent acts and release political prisoners to build confidence.

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman has also condemned the kidnapping of 11 Iranian pilgrims in Syria, calling the act inhumane and unjustifiable.

“These acts, which are against humane principles and moral and international obligations, are by no means justifiable, and it is expected that these people take immediate action to free Iranian pilgrims,” Mehmanparast said.

“We also request the Syrian government authorities to employ all means available to ensure the safety of these Iranian nationals and their quick freedom,” Iran's foreign ministry spokesman added.