Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi and 'Eid al-Ghadir

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Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, said on Friday, June 2, 1961 (12 Khordad 1340), during the Eid al-Ghadir greeting ceremony at Golestan Palace:

*"I hope that with the example left for us by the Prophet of Islam (PBUH) and Imam Amir al-Mu'minin Ali (PBUH), and by following those intentions which 1,300-some years ago were so advanced and progressive that they perfectly align with human needs today, we can fulfill our duties toward our society, nation, and country, and discharge our religious obligations. The life of Ali (AS) was spent in the pursuit of justice and severity against oppressors, and we Shiites must follow him."*

October 11, 1949 (18 Mehr 1328)

"How regrettable it is that everyone talks about fighting corruption, but as soon as action is taken against a corrupt individual, the same people speak up and that corrupt person is supported. This ailing spirit must be fought. We must think about securing the welfare and comfort of the people, not observing private considerations. This duty lies upon everyone, regardless of their position or status, and must be carried out. Ultimately, the people of this country must strive and progress through work and activity, following the praiseworthy teachings of early Islam and the instructions of its leaders in fulfilling their national and social duties, so that dear Iran may take steps toward progress and the Iranian nation may achieve happiness."

May 16, 1950 (26 Ordibehesht 1329)

"We who follow the sacred religion of Islam must strive to achieve our ideal perfection and the expansion of social justice, so that the sacred principles and standards of the religion of the Seal of the Prophets (PBUH) are fully observed and implemented."

September 9, 1952 (18 Shahrivar 1331)

"Following the commands and decrees of Amir al-Mu'minin Ali (AS) is not easy. However, merely by striving and endeavoring to apply the decrees of this great Islamic figure, and by constantly keeping in mind and following the principles he laid down, we will have taken a great step toward the good and welfare of the people and the Iranian nation."

"The country of Iran holds an honorable position in the Shiite world. And if the people of this country, each in their own capacity, implement the religious instructions issued by the great figures of Islam, and if representatives constantly follow the decrees of the great leaders of Islam, great advancements will be granted to the nation and country of Iran."

"There is more, of course..."