Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi - November 25, 2000 - Public Meeting of Officials Marking the Anniversary of the Prophet's Ascension with Ayatollah Khamenei and Hashemi's Account of the Leader's Brief and Lackluster Speech

A public meeting of government officials to commemorate the anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad's Ascension was held with Ayatollah Khamenei. Hashemi noted the Leader's brief yet dry and uninspired remarks.

Overall, from Hashemi's writings in 2000 onwards, a sense of discontent and frustration is clearly evident, particularly regarding the limitation of the reformist president and his government's programs. Often, these sentiments are expressed quickly by Hashemi or adjusted by the publisher of his writings.

Hashemi provided a vague account, possibly edited by the publisher, of the rumors surrounding the explosion at the military base in Torbat Heydarieh, which was mentioned in the previous day's entry.

He also recounted the repercussions of the suspension of three weekly magazines.

Full Entry of the Day:

I went to the Leader's office for the ceremony marking the anniversary of the Prophet's Ascension. Mr. Khatami, the President, offered a few congratulatory remarks, and the Leader also made a brief statement, which felt dry and uninspired. I stopped by my office and instructed that five thousand tomans be given as a gift to each of the secretaries and guards.

We returned home, and the evening was spent on reading, resting, and visiting relatives. Most of the time was dedicated to studying the book "The World in the Age of Ascension." It was reported that the explosion at the ammunition depot of the 77th Division continued until midnight without any casualties, although there are rumors about potential losses.

The U.S. Congress has issued a resolution holding the Palestinians responsible for recent events while audaciously supporting Israel. There is considerable noise regarding the suspension of three weekly magazines in foreign media.