Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi - October 1, 2001 - Hashemi's account of the citizens' condolences in Mohseni (Madar) Square, Tehran, for the victims of September 11

In continuation of the justification by Kamal Kharrazi, the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, regarding the controversies surrounding the Friday prayer, Hashemi led the Friday prayer and delivered lengthy sermons.

Full diary entry:

I went to Tehran University to lead the Friday prayer. In the first sermon, I spoke about the Sacred Defense, and in the second, I addressed the repercussions of the September 11 (20 Shahrivar) incident in America. I provided numerous examples of the shortcomings in the American government's crisis management and their significant mistakes, explaining solutions for combating terrorism. The second sermon became quite lengthy.

The afternoon and evening were spent resting and studying. Mohsen, [the CEO of Tehran Urban and Suburban Railway (Metro)], talked about the achievements of China’s development. Sara, [Fatemeh's daughter], who is preparing to move to her in-laws, is dissatisfied with her new rental home, saying it is too expensive and prefers to stay in her own home. In the evening, Mr. Hadi Tabatabai came to discuss the problems of the country's industries and called for the reform of labor laws and the approval of early retirement for workers.

The United Nations lifted the sanctions on Sudan that had been imposed six years ago. CNN reported that the operations of American and British special forces, which had infiltrated Afghanistan a few days ago, have begun. The delegation of Pakistani scholars sent to Kandahar returned empty-handed in their attempt to persuade the Taliban to hand over bin Laden.

[Silvio Berlusconi], the Prime Minister of Italy, who yesterday made insulting remarks declaring Western civilization superior to Islam, faced severe criticism from Islamic and Arab bulletins and some members of the European Union, with many calling for his apology. However, today in the Italian Senate, he stated that he would not apologize, but if his Muslim and Arab friends were upset, he could only say he was sorry.

Today in Tehran, there was a demonstration against Israel. Last night in Mohseni Square, [in northern Tehran], several hundred people gathered to express condolences for the American victims. At today’s Friday prayer, the chant “Death to America” was renewed, and Americans raised the issue of Iran’s support for terrorism. Protests against America took place in Indonesia, Pakistan, Greece, and other places. In India, Islamic student organizations have been dissolved.