Iran’s judiciary chief Ayatollah Sadeq Larijani, one of the most influential politicians in Iran, has praised the role of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader, in suppressing the street protests in country following the controversial 2009 presidential election in the country.
“The Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had an exemplary role in shutting down the street protests in Iran after the 2009 presidential election. The Leader didn’t want to react harshly against rebellions so he decided to lead people. And the Muslim people of Iran showed a great response to those so called demonstrators.” Sadeq Larijani remarked during a meeting with the top officials of Iran’s judiciary system.
He also warned the oppositions of holding protests in streets. “If they hold new riots in the country and pass the drawn red lines, people of Iran will punish them seriously.”
Police and Basij volunteer forces had prominent roles in repressing protesters in Tehran and the other major cities on 2009 and 2010. Several civilians and security forces were killed during the clashes between people and Basij. Iran is currently preparing for the next presidential election scheduled to be held on upcoming Persian year.