Memoirs of Akbar Hashemi - June 13, 2003

Most of the time was spent studying at home. I went to the University of Tehran to lead the Friday prayers, replacing Mr. [Ahmad] Jannati, who is recovering from gallbladder surgery. The first sermon was about haste versus deliberation, and the second sermon was mostly about the policies and improper actions of America and advising the students; it was lengthy.

In the evening, Mr. Mehdi Hashemian came. He spoke about the potential problems arising from transferring the oil refinery's lubrication (or oil processing) operations to the private sector. He called today's sermon unparalleled, especially the part where America's inaction in Iraq and Afghanistan was presented with reasoned arguments.

Last night, there were demonstrations at the University of Tehran dormitory and in the surrounding areas. Today, the police have been stationed inside the dormitory at the request of the Ministry of Science. Insults have been made against the country's officials, especially the Leader and the President. The US has officially announced that it supports them.

In Iraq, two explosions have caused fires in the Iraq-Turkey oil pipeline, which is a significant warning sign for America, which came hoping for cheap and easy oil. Ayatollah Mohammad Kazem al-Haeri has issued a fatwa declaring the Iraqi Ba'athists as "mohareb" (those waging war against God), stating that their blood is forfeit (mahdour al-dam), and has said that America wants to impose them on the people again. In northern Baghdad and Mosul, widespread clashes have occurred between American forces and the people, with hundreds arrested and a number killed.

In China, a massive flood has occurred, killing about 200 people and destroying thousands of homes. In Mauritania, a military coup attempt has failed, and clashes continue.