The Iranian Government Is Not an Ally of Liberty — It Never Was

The Islamic Republic of Iran is one of the most systematically anti-liberty governments on earth. This isn't a partisan opinion — it's documented fact.

Under Velayat-e Faqih, a Supreme Leader holds unchecked authority over every branch of government. Elections exist, but candidates are pre-screened by an unelected Guardian Council. The people don't choose their rulers — they choose from a list their rulers have approved.

The regime's record speaks for itself:

• Journalists and bloggers are routinely imprisoned
• Women are legally forced to cover themselves and face unequal rights under the law
• Bahá'ís are persecuted, Christians and Sunnis face discrimination
• Same-sex relations are criminalized and can carry the death penalty
• Protesters — including during the 2022 Woman, Life, Freedom uprising — were shot in the streets and executed

The Iranian people have shown enormous courage in demanding liberty. The 2009 Green Movement, the 2019 uprising, Mahsa Amini's death and the protests that followed — Iranians have bled for freedom repeatedly.

The government they live under is their enemy. And it should be recognized as an enemy of liberty everywhere.