http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspxBy Ian Williams, NBC News correspondent "Death to America!" Tens of thousands of fists punched the air as the chant reverberated around the vast tent-like mosque at Tehran University.   For 28 years the religious and revolutionary faithfulen-USCommunityServer 2.0 (Build: 60608.1)http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92966Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:07:29 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92966KelseyThank you for showing the other side of Iran. It's nice to know that the whole country doesn't want "death to America." I gets a bit depressing constantly hearing that the world hates us. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92968Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:18:26 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92968Charles, Tampa, FLAnd yet, these are the same people who elected their government. Just as the rest of the world holds all Americans responsible for their government's actions, so are the Iranian people viewed as allowing their mullahs and government officials to speak for them. It's about time the public in ALL countries took a more active role in the public face their governments present and refute the official policies they endorse with their silence.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92969Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:19:42 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92969jack sheederDeath to Iranhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92976Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:29:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92976james D.Cthe people of iran are just like us they want freedom but cant have it because of religon hopefully we wont have to bomb thier country but i think its gonna happenhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92977Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:31:26 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92977Debbie, Bloomington, Indiana.That's fascinating! It's hard to reconcile those two images -- but great to know. It gives me hope.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92978Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:33:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92978Ima Here, Peoria, IllinoisAn old sage once told me, "When you hear two opposing views of the same event; you can bet one of them is a lie." This story tells me that either the governments of the United States and Iran are lying to us or the news media is lying to us. The truth, he also said, is probably somewhere in between the two views. I can only pray that we acheive the truth of the story of Iran vs. the USA before the lies create a war...a real war.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92981Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:39:02 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92981Laura Shamblin, Ft Worth, TXThank you so much for posting this. I feel that with all of the media coverage about the war people tend to just lump Iran in with Iraq. It is SO great to read what real, average people think about America. I would love to see more reporting like this. Until we can get past the idea that all middle easterners are terrorists who hate America, we will never be at peace. They're real people just like us and are capable of seeing both sides of the coin, just as we Americans could be if we weren't so blindly predjudiced. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92982Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:40:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92982Michael SpurlingThis article confirms what I now believe to be the truth that even our governmant won't tell. The fact is that our government, and our media, portray countries like Iran to be one of total and complete hatred toward America. The propaganda is the same from both governments. I think that time will change the cultural climate in Iran and America ought to find ways to help that along and not resort to taking countries by force. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92985Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:42:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92985Nick, Portland, MEGood article. It's almost hope inspiring, that the people of Iran when asked their opinion on America, it's a relatively good one. I personally like that people can separate their dislike for our government, and their fondness of our culture. It's important, governments change, every 4 or 8 years, but our culture will remain the same, more or less. More reporting like this can change our opinions, a little understanding, can bring a little peace.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92990Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:47:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92990Aaron, Arvada, COI'm sure that not everyone in Iran chants "Death to America!" However, what indication do we have that the people interviewed out on the street weren't giving a subdued opinion since they knew they were speaking to an American reporter?http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92991Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:48:38 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92991Albert Tapia, Tracy, CAJack Sheeder, you have it wrong. It shouldn't be "Death to Iran," it should be "Death to Iranian Leaders," and even then, only the hardliners. We've got bozos in our government, too. I have met Iranian people and they have been very nice!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92993Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:51:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92993steve nybetter watch out IAN your zionist boss will fire you if you keep on reporting like thishttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92994Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:51:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92994David RayIf anyone ever takes the time to view photos of Iran and it's people, one would see a beautiful country. And it hurts me to see the faces of young Iranian children who have the same dreams as our children here in the USA. The governments of both countries are the ones destroying any lasting harmony among it's people. I myself a longtime Republican have finally opened my eyes and came to the opinion that war is not the answer. Nor is the threat of war. Our government and it's administration has opened up a hornets nest in the past few years and I see no way of putting that nest back together. It is a shame that the civilians of both countries have to now suffer the consequences for years to come. God have mercey on both the Iranian government and the Bush Administration.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92996Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:55:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92996RAMAs an American who lives part-time in the Muslim world. It is refreshing to see that there is another side of the story that the media doesn't cover. The side that shows how much the ordinary people of the Islamic world want peace as much as we do. Since moving abroad 2 years ago, I have never once in my travels to Morocco (an Islamic Country) been subjected to racism, natinalism or anti-Americanism. If fact it has been quite the opposite. That isn't to say that these feelings do not exist in certain parts of the world...but our media needs to show both sides of the coin. The politics of fear and hatred has ruled for far too long. It's time to sit down at the table and discuss our mutual interest....PEACE.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92997Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:56:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92997michael brownamerican popular culture wills save the world, for it's become a lingua franca. it upholds the value of the personal life, and it wasn't imposed from the top down, so it was off the radar of most pundits, especially those on the left. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92998Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:56:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92998christen, mesa, azIt's no suprise that Irananians and Americans can live in peace and love for one another; however, what does shock me is that reporting like this does not make it to the front pages the way hatred, rage, and violence does. May we all be enlightened, and blessed; by Allah, and God.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#92999Sat, 17 Mar 2007 17:57:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:92999Jack Box, Seattle WASHAmericans? Predjudiced!? No, really?! They are too busy talking on their cell phones and text messaging about Anna's baby to even think about being predjudiced. Careless, self centered, materialistic definately.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93002Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:00:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93002Jim, PhiladelphiaI have nothing against the younger iranians they seem to be good folks, but their group holding power I do take issue with. No one should ever want war. But if it comes to war between our nations, then as that young iranian man said, so be it and let our gloves come off and lets be done with it. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93003Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:00:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93003Timmy Thomas, Grays Lake, ChicagoIts not always so easy to decipher good from bad in terms of governments or a nation's people. I do know this, I am proud to be an American. Having said this, I'm not always proud of our government's policies. This is our system and wrong or right there is one major distinction among our country and that of our enemies; the ability to peacefully disagree with the United States administration's policies without fear of the "moral police" or "religious mullahs" persecution. A nation that is not able to make a valid attempt to form a nation and government free from religious influence is doomed to fail. Where is the world Musslim outrage of the sectarian violence that plaques the Middle East? God Bless the USA!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93005Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:02:38 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93005Drew J, Norfolk, VirginiaSure, the Iranian people voted in Amadinejad, but I've seen plenty of stories on the site that talk about the Iranian public, and even perhaps the Ayatollah who are tired of and angry at their president. Just as many in America voted for Bush, there are now plenty more who are tired of, and angry at him. I find the parallels between Iran and America, both in their respective populace and current regimes to be amazing. And while both heads of state can go on TV and say "We don't hate the American/Iranian people, we just don't like what their governments are doing", it somehow seems false, doesn't it?http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93006Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:02:46 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93006Matt Bthey are TAUGHT to hate americans and jews from the FIRST day in school..it has been this way for generations so the blame CANNOT be put on our current administration no matter how the media portrays it.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93008Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:04:39 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93008Luke R., Portland, ORYour article is excellent and should be required reading for Dick Cheney. A wise man once said, the cure for Iran is to leave them alone and let them enter, all by themselves, into the 21st century. That's what most of them want. Peace, not war, will let it happen.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93011Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:05:47 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93011Linda Strevy, Spring Lake, MichiganAs the reporter himself says about his report from Iran,"It's not really scientific." But that didn't matter to me. This was a well-written, easy to read news story. In a casual way, his unique observations between the clerics and the "regular people" (both young and old) gave me a better understanding of Iran more than any heavy-duty,full of facts, numbers and statistics news stories I've read before and gave up on half-way through because the reporter or commentator didn't know when he or she had made their point (s) and should have removed their fingers from their keyboards. Thank you, Mr. Williams.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93014Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:06:55 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93014Anthony, Atlanta GeorgiaIf Iranians dont want the U.S. and its allies to attack then they should topple their government. Its as easy as that. Iran has a population of 68 million. If most of the country truelly doesnt follow the Islamic theocracy controlling Iran then they would have no problem gaining the freedoms they crave with a revolution. All I ever hear from persians, american iranians, and iranian sympathizers is that america doesnt understand the true feelings of the iranian people. If thats the case then solve your own problems or we will do it for you. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93016Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:08:10 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93016Ura Notquite There, Seattle, WACommon sense and human nature reinforce the likelihood that these anecdotal observations are a legitimate and accurate reflection of the average Iranian's take on the US. While it would satisfy the idle-minded and agenda-pushers to believe that "the media is lying to us" in this regard, I see no evidence to support that.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93023Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:13:13 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93023TimmyCharles. The party of Amadinazhad (sp) was largely defeated in recent local elections. Which shows that while he may be president that the people are getting sick of his one trick pony (hating the US). His country has its one problems and if he continues to pour money into military and nuclear facilities the country will fall apart and he will be defeated next election. Hopefully it will be before he has the capability of inflicting any real major damage. And Laura no one is going to war with Iran. We cant afford it and our military could not sustain it. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93024Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:15:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93024Tom Hargrave, Huntsville, ALA very well written article, but an article focusing on a very small sub-group of the population, a group that is well informed of world events thanks to the internet. But I’d hardly call this representative of the population of Iran. We are not at war with Iran, radical Islam is at war with us. Unfortunately, it’s hard to separate the two from each other and if we do go to war with Iran it will be because of radical Islam. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93025Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:16:36 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93025BigbirdRead Scott Ritter's book "Target Iran". Their president is a figurehead, the mullahs are in charge. A fatwa has been issued indicating they do not seek nukes. They are signatories of the Nuclear Non-proliferation Agreement and seek the same rights to nuclear power as all other signatories. We need to work with them and follow the rules of the agreement so that we know what they are up to. By continuing the same rhetoric we used on Iraq, we know less of what they are doing that we could. Keep an open mind and use diplomacy for a change. Quit using the Chamberlain reminder. Use caution and verification to ensure that mistake is never again made.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93026Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:17:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93026Destroy All MonstersFirst the embassy hostage-taking (for over a year!) in 1979-81, then the murder of 250+ American UN-sposored peace-keeping troops in Beirut in 1983, then the arming and training of Hezbollah up to the present, now the nukes, and all the while mrdering dissidents and forcing a religion upon all citizens... Why have we permitted it to come to this, and how much longer must civilization await the removal of this barbarous disease-regime?http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93027Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:17:44 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93027The Mighty Gwinn; Houston, TexasIts all well and good. That Iranians watch the Oscars, and play basketball. I mean, even Kim Jong-Il watches "Daffy Duck" re-runs. But, the fact is they have a government that's doing everything it can to kill Iraqis and Americans in Iraq. As well as Jews in Israel and God knows where else. While, they pursue nuclear weapons. So, the Iranians can wear the Yankee caps; and talk as much trash about the Mullahs as they want too. But, when push comes to shove. They have no power in that country. And are not doing anything, to get rid of the "mullahcracy."http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93029Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:18:34 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93029I Love THE UNITED STATES The GOOD AND BADI use to date a woman from iran she was insane like no other she loved america and hated iran government do to its government but as another person said earlier it is the fault of the people not government becuse the people make up the government. so i belive that 99% of iranians hate us they just say they do not becuase they are back stabbing as a group they are con artist and mainly terrorist due to being jelous of our way of life. think about it we helped them over throw their last king on the word of this new revoloutionnary government that they would give free oil to there people and to be afriend to the U.S after we helped them they took americans hostage jacked oil prices started funding major terror groups and cells and now attacks little countries like israel using other countiries to take the heat I ran is the biggest group of Whimps liars thieves and Crimminals. I don t think war is the answer like in high school if you wanted some one to stop bothering you you ignored them let them make a fool of them selves. I mean if the rest of the world does not see how insane and lazy these people are, ask them then to tell you when it became the norm to have a bunch of young to middel aged men who should be working making a living for their family instead are out jumping up and down sing chants agianst a country they blame for all there problems that they have had for the past 1000 years oh and it still is some how americas fault being that were only 231 years old.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93032Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:20:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93032Mayya, Brooklyn, NYwell, thats a pretty picture you are painting, I guess this is supposed to give us hope for peace in the Middle East? please dont forget that these people may be wearing I love NYC baseball caps, but they sit idly by as their government supports terrorism and sectarian violence in neighboring countries. During segregation in America, it was not until people spoke out and stood up for civil rights that the government began listening and making changes. So unless the Iranians are willing to stand up to their government, nothing is ever going to change and their silence will continue to be an endorsement of terrorism and violence. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93033Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:21:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93033Thomas NThis opinion hasn't changed in the last 2000 some years,it's not going to change now!We have to face the prospect not everyone is going to like us;thats life.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93036Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:23:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93036andyDeath to George Bush and the crooked US system. The US governmet has failed its peopleand has betrayed us all. This fake ass blog and its fake ass news. 9/11 was an inside job and the wrath of the people we get you soon!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93039Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:25:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93039Dave Blum, Manassas, VAIran is like America ... you have a wide spectrum of citizens with a wide spectrum of opinions, beliefs and perspectives. Yet the leaders of any country should be held accountable for their actions. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93041Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:26:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93041Michael MacConn, Everett, WAIt's really quite sad to see that open and even University-Supported events that promote death and murder because someone doesn't agree with someone else are legally allowed and perhaps even promoted. The mindset that killing someone because they disagree with you is ok leaves me with a sad view of Iran.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93042Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:27:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93042Bill Emison, Minneapolis Mn.Iranians like what we have. The best weapon their government ( and most other Middle Eastern governments ) has is to conitinue demonzing America and Isreal. To argue that we have not done anything wrong is to miss the point, we are the ralling point the Iranian government uses to keep the publics eye off the Iranian governments ineptitude and opression.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93044Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:28:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93044joelwakeup for crying out loud. I find it hard to fathom so many humans still don't see other humans as the brothers and sisters they preach about on Sunday and are strangely shocked to hear of other humans that are like them.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93046Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:30:43 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93046Joe, Boston, MAThank you so much for this entry. I think it is very important for the American people to know that the Iranian people are not our enemy, but a potential ally on the war on terror. It is important for our government to relax a bit and stop threatening Iran. Those who were in that mosque that day are blinded by hate, and any Americans that hate Iran as a nation for the foolishness of their president are also blinded by hate and intolerance. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93049Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:32:26 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93049Joseph, STL,MissouriCharles from Tampa, They didn't elect their government. Know before you tell.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93050Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:33:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93050Bobby ADEATH TO GEORGE W. HE IS THE ONE WHO CAUSED ALL THE PROBLEMS. THE MIDDLE EAST IS NO DIFFERENT THAN USA. BRING BACK SLICK WILLY AND HILLARYhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93051Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:33:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93051Tom Gonzales Independence, KansasEverytime I see a group of Iranians (or any other group) chanting Death to America I feel they threaten me and my loved ones that live here and I feel justified in eliminating that threat as decisively and thouroughly as possible. I feel that the people that live there should know how us ordinary Americans feel and that they should pressure the idiots trying to incite violence toward us to stop. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93052Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:37:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93052Mary Richmond, VirginiaI agree, that it is encouraging to hear that the general younger population is not as inflamed as their older counterparts. Not as rigid or hung up on proving their correctness---as the older counterparts in almost all governments appear to be, currently. Maybe there is quite a bit of hope for the future for us all. Living together, in acceptance and honor, of all of our differences and actually appreciating what they all bring into our world. Wouldn't that be an awesome thing? From a 56 year old former hippie. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93055Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:39:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93055Doug CarrierHorse Pucky. That looney tune over there is who is president is blowing smoke to hide the goverments moral decline. They talk as though we americans are the devil, but I see your atricle said you seen things as Levis, NY yankee hats ect. Whats up with that? There administration is leading right to koas within and hopefully the good people of iran can get through this. The sooner the nut jobs that run Iran realize that there population wants to live in harmony with the world the better everybody will be. D. Carrier Redondo Beach, CAhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93056Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:39:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93056Nick, portlandive grown up with iranians and iranian-americans, they are some of the most careing, funloving gracious people i have met. also to "charles", i dont think that the rest of the world holds americans responible for their government. i have lived and traveled abrod and most people understand the differance between what americans think and what their government does. Also, the US armed Saddam with weapons in the 80's, those weapons led to the death of over 500,000 iranians in the iran/iraq war, also the united states navy shot down a iranian passnger jet (iran air 655) in 1988 killin 299 people including 66 children. so i geuss some resentment is understandable. We Americans tend to forget these details and assume people in other countries hate us because we are wealthy and powerfull. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93057Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:41:19 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93057Jan, Wash DCWhy does Laura Shamblin think that all Americans are "blindly prejudiced", but no Iranians are? They see both sides of the coin, but Americans don't? Perhaps she needs to quit believing all that the media writes about America and Americans being evil and start belieiving that we are "real people...and are capable of seeing both side of the coin" also. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93058Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:41:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93058Mark Kelly, Sewanee, TennesseeOur military and intelligence communities have really made a mess of things with Iran. I had numerous Iranian friends in college (the 1970s), and they developed great loyalty to our country and culture. Many met and married Americans and remained in the states. The capture of our embassy staff during the Islamic Revolution changed the attitude of Americans toward Iran, but we had been meddling in their governmental affairs for a long time creating anger toward our government. Needless to say, we currently have a window of opportunity that should be taken advantage of through the strength of our media/music/sports culture that could push through the ideals of a free society to mainstream Iranians. Just as many American servicemen and women who have served in Iraq have brought back elements of that culture home to the states, we can expand on our cultural of freedome in Iran. Throughout World War II, the United States and England published books and produced movies that were used behind German lines to promote resistence to the occupying powers, and other issues. The same should be done now ... not to overthrow the Iranian government for our purposes, but to overthrow the Iranian government so that the majority speaks for itself. Why can't we sneak in 1 million Ipods with songs like "We're not going to take it anymore," and others to push through political change in Iran? We could also transmit television images with similar programing to their satellite dishes. The Iranian people are obviously suffering under the current regime, and we can help turn their political history around with a slight nudge ... again, not for a takeover, but a positive change. As Ian Williams' story states, most Iranians like Americans on a personal level. I had college friends from Iran and Iraq, and if I were to see them again, I'm sure we would continue our friendships. Remember, whatever the country, we can all sing: "Hey Hey, my my, Rock 'n Rock Can Never Die!" to bring about change!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93059Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:41:55 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93059Frederick, Dumfries, VaCharles you have the most sensible comment thus far, its really past time people take government to task. You want to be patriotic and nationalistic about your country but when you refuse to say truth to power other people in other country bundle you up as if we live in a monolithic society Whenever the silent majority continues to be silent the fewer minority gets to speak as if for allhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93063Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:48:38 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93063Les, Ridgefield, WashingtonWith everything I have read it is pretty apparent Iran,s people are pro western and have been lied to by their government as we have. Their next election will tell what story is true. Our election showed the world we were not in agreement with our current government and we need to keep pushing back from the abyss. It takes a long time to turn a ship of this size and will take the people of Iran time also. Let us pary we have the time. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93064Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:49:58 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93064Josh Sisco, Traverse City, MIThank you for writing this. I wish, however, that more American's would take the time to understand the world, and get out of the bubble in which they live. I've traveled for years now, and have lived in Arab countries, along with other Middle Eastern countries, and I've never felt safer, or more welcomed by people. What scares me is the people that have comments (see Mr. Sheeder) that do nothing to contribute to a constructive dialogue, and a rogue American government that still has a "Texas, yee-haw" mentality. Now, I've met many nice Texan's who aren't like that, but if what is happening now with Iran continues, the world will pay a dear price. Keep up the writing, I might just come on down and take a look around Tehran for myself! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93068Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:55:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93068timmyBobby A. So do we stone women who wear "suggestive" clothing. Do we have to go to hills away from the city to hold hands with a significant other because of the moral police. Do we kill those who are gay? Do we kill (or threaten) to kill those who change religion in our country (Afghanistan)?. No, no, no and no. To say the middle east is the same as here is an ignorant statement to say the least.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93069Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:55:15 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93069James Smtih, Detroit, MIDeath come to everyone and is the one guarenteed thing once you are born. The only question is what do you do with your life till then. Wallow in in dark, evil and hated towards others, or live in light and help as many as you can. I don't know about you but I don't know anyone who is happy being dark and evil. So you can have your death, but I will enjoy living.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93070Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:56:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93070BehzadI was born in Iran and lived there till the age of 11, then moved to the US, living here for 31 years now. I can tell you that there's no way anyone from either side can see the other side's culture clearly without living there for at least a few years. Each side has pros and cons, somethings are better here and somethings are better there, trust me. Each side wants to hold on to the good things they have but they can't see their own faults. By the way, those uneducated dorks you see chanting those slogans at the Friday prayers are the Iranian version of the "Red State" warmongers. Americans, for heaven's sake, travel more! Ignorance breeds suspicion.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93072Sat, 17 Mar 2007 18:57:53 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93072Proud to be an American.......l have lived all over USAIt is nice to see the media reporting something other than that we are hated as Americans. It certainly seems as though the people of Iran are much like us in America. We have people here that have very strong opposing views.........the difference we are allowed to speak our minds. Our government and I do not mean the Bush Administration or any specific administration but our government the way it is set up allows us to have different opinions and points of view. I am grateful that I live here were I am allowed to express myself whatever my opinion might be without fear of reprisal or even death. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93076Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:02:18 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93076April R., Columbia, MOAn interesting article, and I imagine that the mindset of Iranian civilians portrayed in this article are no different that those of many other "anti-American" countries. It's easier for some to hate all Iranians (or whomever) than think about them being humans just like us...it is shocking to me that OVER 2/3 of the population is UNDER age 30. That seems to be very significant; and what or whom is influencing these people? That concerns me.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93077Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:03:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93077John Doe, Seattle, Wash.It all comes down to power. I've been around the world in my life, and everywhere I went, people just want to have a good life. It's the governments that cause all the problems, those in power and those who want to be rambos (if they all took prozac, they'd kill themselves and the world would be a better place). The rest enjoy family, good food when they can, and entertainment the same as we.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93085Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:17:24 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93085Dan, Smalltown, MNWell this is nice! On my next trip, I think I'll head to Iran. You know- since they love us so much. Maybe then I'll make a stop in Baghdad just to say "Howdy". I'm pretty sure that the Iranians would kill me in a second if it meant that their power grip in the world got a little stronger. When the USSR fractured, the power vacuum it created birthed these "rogue states". I'm not saying that people from both sides can't or shouldn't co-exist, rather that if our countries share an interest in something tangible (i.e. oil), and if we have differing points of contention on these interests (i.e. buyer and seller), then we can expect differing views on who is right and who is wrong. We are the united States, a country by and for its' people. If the Iranians feel that our people are nice, but our Government is not, then they are mistaken about how our society operates. Our government IS our people. Every four years we make changes in our government to more closely reflect our views. Make no mistake- the will of the people as of our last elections changed our government. Just as it has in every election in our country's long history. Iran- WE are the government of America. And if something we do bothers you, wait a few years. If it changes, then we have changed. If not, believe that we still feel the same. But please do not mistake our government for your own. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93090Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:24:47 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93090Gary, Conway, ArkansasIt is interesting that there are areas of Iran where freedom of expression is allowed to exist. One wonders why the government allows the existence of western images. I believe that we must establish contacts within Iran with the younger generation who do not harbor such radically harsh views of the west. We will need these people one day when the Iranian people decide they have had enough isolation and express the desire to join th world community. In the meantime, we should bombard the Iranian landscape with images of western life....our movies, music, sports, and all other aspects of western culture. This is what brought about change in the Soviet Union. Can it not work in Iran as well?http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93091Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:25:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93091Justin, Murrieta CAWhat else is new. All the "Ra Ra Go America" types are in disagreement with the "Lets all be friends" types. This is a tired argument. One solution...both governments have to go. The populations of each country seem to be filled with reasonable people mostly (save radical Islam and Crazy Bible beaters). The Iranian President and Mr. Bush and all their cohorts must be removed. Simple as that. You cant find peace with leaders hellbent on war. America is the worlds greatest country, but guess what...there is still a "whole world" out there. One day they may decide we are more trouble than we are worth.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93092Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:26:03 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93092Ace I am neither from the US nor Iran, so for me both are the same. But having read history & also having been in war zones, in Somalia, Afg & then close to Iraq & Iran (since I am in the ME now)I know for sure that the US foreign policy is flawed. Many countries look up to the US till they are slapped in the face & then they turn against them. The dictators in many countries were & still are nothing but the creation of the US, who are imposed on the people as Saddam or the Shah were in Iraq & Iran then or Karzai & the Iraqi govt are in Afg & Iraq now. When people of countries like these eventually rise up against their govts, they rise up against the US as well, since they know the US had planted them. Then Americans ask why they are hated so much 'for no reason' by these people. Do the Americans really think that the next & the next generations of Afhgans or Iraqis (each of whom have had several relatives killed, their properties destroyed, the females violated etc so much so that even their basic requirements like water & electricity taken away, can ever like the Americans? All I say is that if you dont want to wish something upon yourselves, dont do it to others. Just let them live in peace in their countries. Dont go on attacking country after country & destroying others lives. There comes a point when they cant take it any more & then they retaliate. What you see now is what your govts have been doing to others for about 50 years. Nobody is interested in attacking any country least of all the US which is so far off, so dont fall for your govt's propaganda, which pumps up the people & then the US attacks another country. Others are just like you, with families & kids & jobs etc. Just let them be guys. Just let them be. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93096Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:30:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93096Jon Leeper,Toronto, Canada via Hugoton, Kansas I am from a little town in southwest Kansas and even with my military time did not get to meet a lot of folks outside of the mainstream Americana. However, after moving to Toronto , Canada, and working security in the "Wall Street", or the downtown core of the financial district, I have had the pleasure of meeting folks from every corner of the world. Toronto is a very diverse city with 102 languages spoken. I have met many Iranians and WOW, what a beautiful people. So sincere and full of love and hope. Reminds me of the folks in the southwest U.S. They, the average Iranian, love our ways and our ideas as a people. Leave government to mess it up for people of every culture as they invariably do. The Iranian people are a peaceful and loving culture with so much politeness and deep, as well as, intense inteligence that I sometimes find myself in awe. I have started to learn the Persian language with the help of many of these beautiful people and find it to be an interesting way to link up with their culture. My advice to my fellow Americans?! Don't believe the hype of the media, or the government. Do your own reasearch, follow the advice of whomever coined "believe nothing of what you hear, and only half of what you see". Sincerely, Jon. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93098Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:31:44 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93098Wesley Moore, Omaha NEMy heart dropped when I first began to read this story because I thought it was another piece of propaganda aimed at dehumanizing Iranian citizens. There is a campaign going on right now to prepare US citizens to accept preemptively dropping nuclear weapons on Iran as a necessary action. There are allot of moral hurdles in achieving a goal like that so we must be mentally conditioned to think that all the Iranians want to kill us, Men women, children and all. Especially the children. There is an insidious motive behind a large amount of news stories coming out about children being brainwashed into "irreversible hatred". That was a talking point for allot of conservative outlets. I saw the cover of Newsweek(I think) a few months back and it had this small Arab child on the cover "posed" with an AK-47 leaning up against his beautiful face. That's a level of propaganda we haven't seen since; (Do I have to say his name?) When you target children in your propaganda campaign. You want to erase any sliver of moral conscience in your populace by making them think that the "only solution" is to allow our forces to destroy them. They all are the enemy. Thanks for presenting a different POV in this United States of Oceania we live in.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93099Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:32:00 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93099Bruce - Mesa, ArizonaPerhaps more foriegn aid sould be spent getting satellite dishes to homes in the Middle East. A good P.R. campaign direct to the people might do more for social change than all the threats Washington can think of. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93100Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:33:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93100stan ,kamloops,british columbia , canada90% of iranians don't like the whacked out mullahs that are running their country but like most of these middle east countries ,they have to put up with it.iraq and iran with their great oil wealth could have been great modern twenty first century countries but these religious twisted nut balls have taken them back into the dark ages.can you imagine iran with just one atomic bomb.god help us all.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93101Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:34:03 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93101Andrew, Minneapolis, MNCharles, you do realize that the mullahs in control of the Iranian government have final say about who is in the government, don't you? Political reform has been nipped in the bud by conservative mullahs actually dismissing democratically elected representatives. Unfortunately, the Iranian government doesn't represent the mainstream of Iranian society.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93103Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:36:44 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93103Eddy Kay, London, EnglandThis is an Englishman's perspective on the affair: I feel that the Iranian Govt. has a certain right to nuclear weapons. The Israli state developed their weapons in secret, in defiance of international law, and the American and European Govts. did not try and stop them or force them to disarm. Their constant suppourt of Israel and its actions in the Middle East only add to the paranoia which the Mullahs feel about the West. ("their culture is threatening ours and they are willing to use force to destroy it; they are in the pay of the Zionist Isralis"). America and Europe should take the same stance on Israel's weapons as they do with Iran's weapons program. Just so I am not accused of anti-semitisim, My father is Jewish, and my Grandmothers family died in the Camps.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93104Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:37:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93104BillNuke'emhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93119Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:53:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93119Steve, Chicagonice article, what most people don't know is that Iranians do not have control over their government and who becomes president and such as much as Americans. I remember their previous president....he tried to establish more freedom for the people and create better relations with the U.S. but was almost assasinated for doing so. These are the things that we have to be aware of. Unfortunately, most political decisions are driven by economic ambitions and not by what is right and wrong.....http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93120Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:53:32 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93120Dan, MII still don't understand why people find it so hard to believe that Iranians don't hate us. Just think about what really separates our peoples, besides geographic location. The biggest difference is the predominant religion. There are a lot of bad things about Iran, but there are also a lot of good things. The same can be said of anyplace, including the United States. When you can say "See, they don't actually hate you, dispite what everyone else thinks and says", I feel lucky. On our current course though, those sentiments will not last long. We have an obligation to foster peace and goodwill, not attack, taunt, and bomb those societies that we disagree with. The hostage crisis was regrettable, as I am sure a great many Iranians would agree, but if you really look hard, and, understand the difference in the cultures, and mindsets, you can start to see why it happened. If we are to hold Iran responsible for something that happened years ago, then, why are we friends with Japan, after the attack on pearl harbor? Frankly, I am damn proud that we are at peace with Japan, and that our societies can work together as well as they do.. I wish the entire world could get along and work together in peace in such a way.. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93122Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:55:19 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93122PaoloAm I the only one who remembers that our government said the same thing about Iraq, in the not so distant past. Didn't they say Iraq was a "threat" to us and the world? They convinced us that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and were intent on using them to destroy us as well as other countries? Anyone? Open you eyes, they are doing the same thing in regards to Iran. What you have is a blow hard Iranian leader who is blowing smoke up our backsides and our government is falling for it again. The same intelligence agencies that said what they did about Iraq, are the same ones spewing this nonsense about Iran. As to the gentleman who wonders who is lying to whom, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93123Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:55:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93123Joseph, Richmond, VirginiaYou forgot to mention the folks in our government who are MOST American of all. They are people too...It's too bad someone wants to kill a group of people they have never met. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93124Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:56:04 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93124mike, bath, mainethis was a very nice article to read. too bad that there is so much hatred in the world.It will be nice when we all can view the other person as a sister or brother despite our cultural and ethnic diffrences.voilence and nationalism destroy the peace that we all want.the young are on the right track lets pound our weapns into plowshares and really live in peace.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93127Sat, 17 Mar 2007 19:59:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93127Laura Baker, Austin, TexasIran is a highly sophisticated, ancient civilization. It struggles to move towards a more modern, technological world, while holding to its great traditions and wisdom. Persians do not want war, they want to live and be happy. If war occurs it will be because we want it and rationalize it to ourselves. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93128Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:00:00 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93128jackaroobearThis is a simple matter for me; send SF in to setup targets for bio or chem. total and complete annihilation bugs, animals, men women and children. Then Iran and all points in between, anyone who starts trouble after that, including the limp wristed left gets sent over there and the process starts over. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93131Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:06:08 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93131MIKE , SACRAMENTO CAIT WAS A GOOD ARTICLE,BUT DID NOT EXPLORE THE SITUATION VERYWELL.IAN HAS TO STAY THERE A LOT LONGER TO KNOW IRANIAN PEOPLE AND THE SAME TIME THE PEOPLE WHO ARE IN POWER IN IRAN.THE TRUTH IS IRAN HAS OVER 70 MILLION PEOPLE OF WHICH 95% OF THEM ARE PRO AMERICAN, THEY LIVE LIKE AMERICAN,DRESS LIKE AMERICAN, WATCH AMERICAN MOVIES AND SO ON.BUT AMERICAN GOVERMENT DOES NOT UNDERSTAND THESE,THAT IS WHY THEY DO NOT SUPPORT OPPOSITION IN IRAN IN ORDER TO GET RIDE OF THIS REGIME ONCE FOR ALL.I AM CERTAIN THAT ALL THE CONFLICTS IN THE WORLD ARE CAUSED BY THE REGIM IN IRAN ,IF THIS REGIM IS GONE 99% OF THE WORLD TERRORISM WILL BE SOLVED,NO TERRORIST GROUPS GET FUNDED ANY MORE. LONG STIRY SHORT,I JUST CAME BACK FROM IRAN,I TALKED TO MANY PEOPLE THERE,99% OF THEM TOLD ME THAT THEY OPPOSE ANY ATTACK ON IRAN,BUT WE NEED HELP FROM U.S.A TO BRING DOWN THIS REGIM.ALSO A REMINDER FOR IAN,THOSE PEOLE WHO WERE IN FRIDAY PRAYER ARE REGIMS THUGS WHO GET PAID TO GO TO FRIDAY PRAYER,IF ONE DOES NOT GET PAID HE WILL NOT SHOW UP,ANOTHER WORDS THEY DO NOT BEALIVE IN GOD.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93133Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:10:36 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93133Adam Current, Veedersburg, IndianaThis is very good. As a teenager approaching high school graduation and faced with the decision of what "I want to do with the rest of my life", I am glad war may be not be a choice. I understand that it is our governments that control that type of thing and not the people. Hearing that they may not totally hate us brings hope. If anyone from Iran is reading this, let my tell you what the kids my age in America really think: We do not dislike you at all! We just want to be friends. Peace can be acheived if our governments would just cooperate! Mistakes have been made by both sides in the past,but who is perfect? But like the great literary work "1984" tells us... "Ignorance is bliss. Peace is war" and so on...http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93144Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:23:42 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93144Az LivingWHEN I WAS GROWING UP MY FAMILY MOVED TO TEHRAN FOR MY FATER'S JOB. I WENT TO TEHRAN AMERICAN SCHOOL AS DID MY 3 SISTERS. WE MET MANY PEOPLE. MY FRIENDS WHO WERE BORN IN TEHRAN WERE JUST LIKE ME AND THEIR PARENTS WERE JUST LIKE MY PARENTS. THE IMAGE YOU SEE IN YOUR HEAD AND ON OUT MEDIA HERE IS NOT THE IRAN THAT WE LIVED. MOST DONT HATE AMERICANS. OUR MEDIA TRIES TO MAKE US HATE THEM AND THEIRS DOES THE SAME.THINGS HAVE CHANGED IN THE LAST 25+ YEARS IN IRAN. WOMEN GO TO SCHOOL, COLLEGE, WOMEN DOCTORS. OUR GOVT LEADS US TO BELIVE WE ARE SAVING THEM AND THEY ARE MISTREATED AND NOW WE'RE AFRAID OF THEM FOR THE THE TECHNOLOGY WE GAVE THEM. WE WANTED THEM TO USE NUCLEAR POWER. MY DAD WORKED FOR THE COMPANY....YOU KNOW THE ONE RUN BY DICK ? HALIBURTON...BROWN AND ROOT..........http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93145Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:24:01 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93145Holly GarfieldThe Iranian government is far from being able to launch a significant nuclear attack. 1-2 nuclear bombs would result in the world destroying Iran, and they know that. We are defending with new missile defense installations. Inflation and unemployment in Iran are growing rapidly. Iran's government will be either replaced or destroyed by itself. The threat of war, without the buildup necessary to start the war, is helping to push things a bit faster. Have patience and the Iran situation will resolve itself. A peaceful resolution will take more time than a violent one, let's hope for peace.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93146Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:26:55 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93146Michael SimmsI am pleased to see someone reporting what the average Iranian citizen is really thinking...we need to help them remove the hardliners running their government, who have been in power sinse 1979; obviously, no real elections in Iran, but Americans and Iranians have always gotten along...we all want peace, but as long as we see images of thousands chanting, fist raised, zealots calling for my death and every other americans death, there isn't going to be much civil dialogue between us. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93148Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:27:09 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93148Becky, Williamsport, PAIt's nice to hear both sides of a story for a change. Thank you!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93149Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:28:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93149Frank YanczerI once met a Russian gentleman in Paris while I was stationed there in the early 50's. He told me the cold war was a fabrication of both governments to people in line and afraid, therefore more easily governed. He had a very good impression of americans when a GI saved his life during the Berlin takeover. He said " The GI could easily have left him to die but instead, radioed for a medic to tend to his wounds. Doing that was beyond the call of duty but not beyond the call of a fellow human being. The moral of this story is, You can save or take lives and its up to all of us to make the right decision. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93153Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:33:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93153Ali, Tehran, IRANDear All! I am an Iranian person an I have lived all of my life in Iran. I know Iranian culture. I DO KNOW that 99% of Iranian people love America and American people. They all hate the way the Iranian goverment acts. We all want to have a good relationship with American people. (I apologize, because my English is not very strong)http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93155Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:38:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93155Mike, Atlanta, GAI could not care less about Iran, their culture or what they think of us. The bottom line is that they have taken Americans hostage, bombed our embassies, blew up our Marines in Lebanon, and have made "Death to America" their national mantra. Anyone who does not think that America should be concerned about Iran having nuclear weapons is an idiot, and America-hating bigot, or both. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93159Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:42:52 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93159liberally conservativeNo, I think that either every single person in Iran wants to die as martyr while murdering Americans or else they love America and want to emigrate here and bomb their own country. It's one or the other right? Like this reporter pointed out, all the young people are secretly American patriots, and the Ayatollah and President of Iran watch executions while having tea and cake. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93160Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:46:17 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93160Jacob JozevsBefore the 1980's, I remember, as a U.S. Merchant Mariner and as a freelance international smuggler , how Iran, under "Shah" Pahlavi, was such an open minded and promising country and not just our friend. I remember when docked at various Persian Gulf port's of Bandar Shipore, Bandar Abbas and Koramshah that at high noon I once almost cooked an egg on the deck of that ship [the S.S. Robert E Lee] It was 132 degrees there, desert like and newly oil rich. I was born in Israel and brought to America at the age of five (1960's) via a Dad who's entire family perished because of a madman named Hitler (not Germans per se ) and having a Mom who's family (all the intellectual thinking men not females) also perished because of a madman called Stalin. Yet during my excursions there, I also respected the Iranians for their beautiful history. Particularly when it came to their true national religion which was Zoroastrians and not Islam. I also knew about Cyrus The Greats Dynasty or kingdom. And especially how this great Persian king (not Mullahs) saved my ancient Orthodox, Moderate, liberal and a few of my secular (Zionists) Jews from the Babylonia incarcerations and hence up to the pre-Diaspora era of 1948 (Creation of Israel and many other Nations them days.. Now they are a nation lead by Shia Bibliophiles. Remember: Persians are not Arabs. And now the Iranians name their streets after martyred terrorists. Today's Iran is not the same Iran I once loved or knew, and not as a Jew, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddha, Zoroastrian et al of which I studied, but one who truly loves and yet hates humanity. SHOLOM and forgive them Almighty! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93162Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:48:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93162Johnny Killjoy, Seattle, WAThis is why we will fail on all levels if we attack Iran. In a way, they're already in the process of change. Bombing them will put the youth of that country into the hands of the radicals. It's a shame that both countries can't just bypass their governments and find peace with each other. Let the fundamentalist governments fight it out themselves and leave the people out of it.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93163Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:51:13 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93163SamTo the ignorant reader on this site that says "Death to Iran", i say, get a life. Iranians are peace loving, intelligent, and wonderful people. If Bush, Cheney and the rest of the gang that unfortunately run our country had the diplomatic experience necessary to negotiate, Iran would be our best ally now in the Middle East. Too bad we have to wait another 2 years until we can vote in leadership that understands that you can't think we own the world. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93164Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:54:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93164Robin R., Gurnee, ILReligious extremists, no matter what the religion, are a threat to freedom whether in Iran or in our own country. I have visited Iran as a tourist. Everywhere our small tour group of 3 went, we were greeted warmly. People wanted to know where we were from, wanted us to know they had a cousin in Cleveland or Los Angeles, wanted to know if we had tried this or that type of tea or food, wanted to know if we were enjoying our stay. Yet, as a woman, I had to constantly make sure my hair was tucked under my scarf and make sure to not wear too much make-up. On every level, it was an eye opening experience. I can only hope that the true spirit of the Iranian people with their long, rich history and culture, eventually prevails over extremism.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93169Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:04:46 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93169American Mom, Burbank, CaThe Iranian government doesn't care if the majority of Iranian people like America, so why should we????http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93170Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:06:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93170Joe NYCnuke them before they nuke us! Its only a matter of timehttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93171Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:08:10 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93171George I think it is the extreme ego of all the world leaders that causes trouble in the world. If all countries of the world had term limits so that no leader could serve more than ten years the world might be a safer place. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93191Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:29:21 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93191UBER SCHEISENDEATH TO IRAN. SEE....WE CAN DO IT TOO. DON'T I SOUND SMART!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93194Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:33:05 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93194sandra, Calgary Alberta CanadaI also enjoyed the article,but it raises a question for me. If the government of Iran promotes hate rallies at the university level, what kind of hate conditioning has been used on these young people since they have entered school. It is easy to say that on the street the average Iranian does not hate America, but that kind of conditioning is very difficult to break and these people do not just learn this hatred in school but they celabrate the suicide bombers and make them national heros. Let us not forget the past, I am sure that all Germans did not hate the jews in 1940 and yet with careful conditioning and some well placed propaganda Hitler lead the German people to a mass genocide. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93195Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:33:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93195Zooch, La Crosses, WisconsinSomebody asked a question. Why everybody hates America. I would suggest going back to history to find out what American governments did to Iran and it's people (CIA and SAVAK). Then you'll know, why the older generation of Iran hate America. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93196Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:34:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93196An Angry AmericanDoes it ever occur to you press guys that you might be a part of the PROBLEM? If you know this, don't you understand you are helping to eliminate the very freedom that you enjoy to allow you to do the things you do? How stupid can you be.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93197Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:34:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93197Jim, Los Angeles, Calif. U.S.A.I wonder if any of the Iranians profiled in this story could openly express their opinions in a forum such as this blog? I'd guess that they would probably face some harsh treatment and retribution for publicly stating that they have a generally good opinion of Americans.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93198Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:35:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93198Malcom, Dallas Having lived in the Middle East (Saudi Arabia) for several years, I have a good feel of how it works. What the media shows on TV and through Print sells commercials and ads. Religion is used as a means of control in many countries, even the good old USA. Do not believe everything you hear or see and take some of it with a grain of salt. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93199Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:36:05 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93199Bridger, casa grande, AZ screw them for sayin death to America or to England. we need to invade! then we own the middle east. then hopefully Gas can drop. muah ha ha ha----evil laugh http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93200Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:37:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93200MJ Kenihan Dallas TXDo ya think ya coulda asked a follow-up question or two or was the person holding your hand telling you time was up? Moron reporters like you never get to the gut with these folks. Lame question, lame answer. How about ENGAGING in some Plato-tonics? Hmmmmm? Maybe like, "Uhh..what do you think of your government's ability to have a nuclear bomb?" "can you see why the American government AND OTHER WESTERN NATIONS might be a little bit worried about it? The list goes on and on...but you lame reporters give us this softball rubbish for masquerading like an "article"....crapola..pure, unadulterated crapola.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93201Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:37:41 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93201Glen,Whitehall,PAAmerica needs to STOP being the police force of the world. We had our own civil war where we killed each other and nobody came to the rescue..let other countries settle their own problems. We have so many of our own problems right here in our own country. Do we forget about crime,health care,care of our elderly,educational systems,homeless,jobs, the environment,finding alternative fuels and the list goes on and on. We waste so much money in the country (example) the space program..we spend billions of our hard earned dollars on a spacecraft of some sort, only to hopefully get a few pictures and a bucket of dirt from another planet...what a waste of money,time,energy and manpower to accomplish this meaningless task. We as Americans need to take of our country for our children and ourselves because no one else will care. We can help support other countries WITHOUT WAR. We should NOT act alone with any world events. We should act together with the equal majority of other countries or we do not get involved. There is too much materialistic crap going on in America right now...too much hatred and violence even on our habitual TV watching...the media only reports death and violence...how about some positive reporting an all of the great things going on in the world...war is caused by real estate or religious beliefs...why can't we live together and share our religious beliefs? we need to show RESPECT to others...and be grateful for the world that was created for all of us to share. The best things in life are free...life itself,love,hope,forgiveness..........we can do this! Live on! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93202Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:37:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93202Joe, ncI don't understand the Irainian people,I know that there are good people in this culture who want real peace and want to be able to live free to be able to choose their own way of living. why on GOD's green earth do they keep letting these moronic mullahs make all of the decisions. Just look at their president;a hate monger. they need to give their women a chance to have a real life and not be told to stay covered up from head to toe. their government hate the U.S. and Israel. But just look at the contributions that's being made to the world by the U.S. and Israel. I" a follow of Jesus Christ,but when I share my faith and some rejects the gospel I don't threaten to cut their heads; I just shake the dirt off and move on. I feel this is what's wrong with these muslim countries whose so affraid to let their citizens make their own minds up about things like this.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93205Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:39:38 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93205Jim from Olympia, WashingtonI'm sure there are plenty of people in Iran who can see through the propaganda put out by it's government, and they know that life would be better for their country if their government was friendly to the west. The issue is who has the power, and what they do with it. Although it may be a little dated I would recommend anyone who wants to better understand Iran to read "not without my daughter." That book gives an insider view of the ideolgical problem we're dealing with like no other. Iran is clearly a state sponsor of terrorism and a threat to the U.S. under their current regime. Unless of course you think the Hezbollah and Moqtada Al-Sadr are the good guys. In that case you should probably move to Lebanon or Iran. These are the guys that want to convert everyone to Islam by the sword.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93206Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:42:21 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93206LOVE IT OR LEAVE ITStill no matter all of this talk....There is STILL 10k+ people packing into 1 mousqe on a friday in 1 place in tha world screaming death to america...The msg these mullahs are sending is heard farther and wider then IRAN...if u guys are not scared u should B....There is a LARGE number of youth in the durka world who want nothing more then to really bring death to AMERICA.....the whole time drinking a coke and wearing a NY hat.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93207Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:43:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93207I Love THE UNITED STATES The GOOD AND BADHey To those of you who really do not understand, it is all about these 1.It is all about money, power and complete access to the middle east 2.Who has it what are they doing with it why do they have it.who gave it to them. Humans are humans no matter what color religion or race we are all equal no matter if we like it or not, each person is allowed the right o provide for his family and that right should be protected at all cost. no government any where in the world has the right to tell a man how to live his life or feed his family so long as it is not illgotten. We have been tring to promote an educated and political awarness for democracy. in all countries. i belive the U.S just wants to protect it capital investments which is good for all americans abroad.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93208Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:44:38 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93208Benjamin, MDWhat it all comes down to. Governments become corrupt, corrupted by power , by the money, and they do what they do to maintain that. The people, in general just wants to live their life without danger or problems. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93209Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:45:18 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93209Kike, Mexico cityIan williams, You are as shallow as an empty 'starcup' with water thanks, kikehttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93210Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:49:23 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93210Michael Hartz, Yardley PAThis story is fine, but there is something that has to be underlined. Not everybody in Iran thinks as those in that tent do. However, mild-mannered people who are not radical fanatics will go along with the fanatics when faced with compliance or death. To draw an analogy, ever German in the 1930's was not a Nazi. But the people in power were uncompromising violent ideologs who scared the rest of the country into submission. A parallel situation is brewing in alot of the Middle East where the people who count most are already threatening nuclear war against Israel. And I'm sure if there ever was a nuclear strike against Israel you would see images from the Middle East akin to 9/11. People cheering and proud that their country acted as the mighty sword of Allah. So while it nice to see a story attemping to debunk a stereotype of the typical Mid-Easterner I think it can also be dangerous and short-sighted. Like I said earlier the Nazi's took their time and slowly implemented more and more laws restricting Jewish freedom and privileges until they implemented the final solution. They didn't just instantly begin executing people. And unfortunately what I see is the recruitment of more and more fanatics. Once they have enough in the "control" group the non-jihadists will comply out of fear. In closing, two things. Literally translated Islam means submission. WHAT IS PAST IS PROLOGUE.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93211Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:50:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93211john CSeems to me,we have never really had a problem with countries in the middle east until Isreal seized lands from neighboring countries.60 years later, these land conflicts are still there. Being the jews can do no wrong"chokes" , our government along with other western governments constantly meddle in the affairs of these countries, of whom only want their fathers and grandfathers land back from the Isrealis, whom dont own these lands, they stole them, then they build on it like it is theres. Then the rest of the world insists that Islam and muslims must accept and recognise a country that was instilled by western entities. Then we make and force policies on these people to adhere by, or face the wrath of us and isreal. Then everybody tries to grasp why we are so hated. Btw, you must force democracy on them as well!! Please.Does anyone see their point of view?? http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93212Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:51:26 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93212Michelle - Miami, FloridaAll I can say is that for both nations(America & Iran), the answer is not war, hatred, put-downs, etc. The answer for both countries(in my opinion)as well as all the countries in the world has to start with the leaders - they need to examine their hearts before almighty God and admit/see where they have failed their people in the country they lead, humble themselves before God, and ask those in their country to pray that Almighty God will forgive their country and heal their land. Because time is running out people - the Lord will be coming for His people soon, and if we think there's confusion and chaos now.....we've only seen the beginning. All countries, please take 2nd Chronicles 7:14 into consideration,"If my people, which are called by my name, humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93215Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:52:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93215Brian......Lexington, KYThe Middle East as a whole will never see peace. In fact, the same could be said for the rest of the world. Various people will always have different opinions but it is in our still primative nature as humans to war and destroy. Christianity & Islam have never meshed. That will probably always be our common ground for war. It has been for 100's of years now anyways. My point is simply, let it go, war is always an inevitablity for the human race. You have to learn to deal with it rather than solve it.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93216Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:56:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93216Robert MacinIranians are just people like us. Americans have disrespected the entire world. Aslong as keep our arrogance and ignorant cowboy style , more countries will join to the "Death to American chores". I have lived in many countries and i'm sorry to break the news "America is no longer a great country" nor even better than many countries e.i. Switzerland, Sweden etc. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93221Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:57:46 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93221Peter, Lancaster, CaliforniaVery interesting...Anthony from Atlanta wrote "If Iranians don't want the U.S. and its allies to attack then they should topple their government. Its as easy as that. Iran has a population of 68 million. If most of the country truly doesn't follow the Islamic theocracy controlling Iran then they would have no problem gaining the freedoms they crave with a revolution. All I ever hear from persians, american iranians, and iranian sympathizers is that america doesnt understand the true feelings of the iranian people. If thats the case then solve your own problems or we will do it for you.".... Somehow that EXACT line of thinking and action hasn't worked very well in Iraq, has it? Here we go again, not thinking what we are doing, repeating failure after failure? Maybe if we or $$$$ corporate America didn't think of our personal interests in the region our meddling wouldn't cause half the world to hate us. How would you feel if Canada wanted us to shut down all of our reactors that are capable of nuclear enrichment or they would do it for us? Or if they threatened to help all the 'peace loving Americans' by helping to overthrow whatever government we have because we choose not to follow Canadian interests? That's different you say...whether we overthrow a nation from within or by sending over a couple of hundred thousand troops to do it for us or a couple of surgical air strikes...hmmmm.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93222Sat, 17 Mar 2007 21:58:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93222Robert MacinIranians are just people like us. Americans have disrespected the entire world. As long as we keep our arrogance and ignorant cowboy style , more countries will join to the "Death to American chores". I have lived in many countries and i'm sorry to break the news "America is no longer a great country" nor even better than many countries e.i. Switzerland, Sweden etc. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93225Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:01:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93225Kelly ThanosAmericans should stop worrying about whether those in fascist dictatorships, into decapitations, misogyny, and absolute conformism like us or not. They envy us our medical, technological, moral, ethical, cultural, financial, military might. What they think doesn't matter. What they do has consequences for them. The mullahs in Iran as everywhere are death-loving despots and the robotic young men, and women, who need to conform to be accepted by them are not the standard by which we should judge ourselves. America is the freest, most successful country in the history of this galaxy, the longest functioning democracy with rule of law, separation of church and state - all the values that nihilists hate. The totalitarions who want us dead want the death of freedom, for women, gays, educators, journalists, for everyone. And the totalitarian western left sympathize with the death-loving, uneducated robotic muslim masses because they find common cause is hating America and the very same freedoms that allow them to express that freely. Dont worry about your enemies, they are of a kind; strengthen your friends, and keep our military strong. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93227Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:05:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93227Richard Lyons, Orick, CaI lived for two years in Tehran (75-77)and from the time of the revolution to this day have felt that the majority of Iranians bear no animus towards the American "people". It has been my experience that the American government to bolster alliances however fleeting will do what it has to regardless of how it is perceived by other governments and the peoples of the region. The animus is directed against the government.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93231Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:12:22 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93231RayI see our liberal education system and media has brainwashed Nick in portland, actually Iraq was primarily supplied with arms by Russia not USA. They flew migs, shot AK47's and had thousand of Russian tanks. If that is motivation for hate,they should be chanting death to Russia. Ray in San Diego http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93232Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:15:30 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93232Telling it like it is, God's, CountryPuh-leeze! Their president is a weak kidnapping felon. The people are weak because they allow such a pice of crap to speak for them. Islam is weak because their God is Satan and they will certainly perish. We are weak because we don't squash them like the insects they are!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93236Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:20:15 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93236Hiding under a rockI am grateful that I live here (USA) were I am allowed to express myself whatever my opinion might be without fear of reprisal or even death.-I wish that was true, even in here in the United States of America we all live in fear of reprisal if we speak up against our goverment and if our goverment is afraid of you enough they will make sure you disappear.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93238Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:22:00 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93238R-Man, Mojave, CANext time Hezbollah starts firing their Iranian funded missles at Isreal who wants to volunteer to sit on the rooftop of a northern Isreali home singing,"Hey Hey, my my, Rock 'n Rock Can Never Die" or maybe a little Twisted Sister singing "We're not gonna take it anymore" to bring about change??!! Yeah, Mark Kelly, that will show them!! World War II was a WAR, man! We won it because we faught to WIN! The blood of our fathers won that war & caused Hitler to take his own life holed-up in a bunker - not movies & books!! (Nor war stratagy micro-management by a politically grandstanding US legislature)I'm sure there were "good" people in Germany back then, just as there are in Iran now, but that didn't stop millions of "good" Jews from being tortured, starved, humiliated & cooked alive in ovens. Today the leader of Iran publicly & unabashedly declares that Isreal doesn't have a right to even exist & we'd all be better off if the Jews were wiped off the face of the earth! But, hey, it's their "right" to own nukes, let's don't "meddle" with Iranian govermental affairs, let's just give them a "slight nudge" & sneak in a million i-pods and some western TV shows. I'm sure Halocaust survivors wish we could've done that to Germany back in the 1940's. (Btw, pass me another bong hit!)http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93239Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:22:29 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93239jason Call, Latham, N.Y.So they shout Death to Americans and we are to blame for not understanding their culture. But if I were to call them a bunch of ignorant, backwater, uneducated, Middle-Eastern, cammel humping, jackasses. I would be put in prison and stoned with rocks. The fact of the matter is they are no better than we are. They say the events in the movie 300 didn't happen. Yeah well tell that to the 60,000 persians who got their asses stomped. Nothing lasts forever all things must end Iran's government will fall at some point in time. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93240Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:22:57 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:9324001976 Houston TexasNow thats good journalism! Keep it up man! Yeah lets see more of the big picture.Thank you.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93242Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:23:27 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93242i love USA, los angeles, cai love USA. but our government has been doing pretty devious things for the past half century against iran and some other middle eastern countries. they have their sovereingty and we have ours. there really is no reason that the US government must impose our will upon ppl of other culture, faith, and world region. in order to cure the world's ills(war, famine, disease, global warming), we must band together as the world to defeat these things. we can't be shortsighted in our efforts against these things by having enemies all over the globe. we cant have other governments (israel) telling/suggesting our government what to do. we need to take care of our own. That means: decrease the rich/poor gap, educate our kids, relieve poverty, eliminate racism and discrimination, build a stronger economy, etc. The 1 trillion dollars we are spending on Iraq needs to be spent here!! ON OUR COUNTRY. we can't be wasting time, energy, and money on a people we can't understand. we are hurting ourselves in the war on terror. when will people understand this? Friendly to the west? the west http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93243Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:26:17 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93243Jeff Howard, San Diego, CAFists in the air, death to America; in Iran. I read that Bush got a reception like this everywhere he went in Latin America recently. He has ruined us around the world. When I travel, it is best I tell people that I am from Canada, and I do.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93245Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:27:03 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93245B Pope, PAGreetings to everyone. I have always had a sneaking suspicion that the majority of Iranian people are just trying to make it through the day - like the rest of us. As far as the theory that they voted in their government that is causing all of these problems....guess what people! If I do recall correctly, the US did the same thing - not once - BUT TWICE!!! We had the chance to get the ball rolling for change - but yet again, this country pressed the wrong buttons. Pot calling the kettle black????!!!!! I support our troops, not the morons that sent them there!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93247Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:34:14 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93247Rich Wargo, Voorheesville, NYFirst, although there are "elections" in Iran, the ruling mullahs are just that, they have final say-so, so they pick the candidates, and they decide who wins. Yes, the "elections" are not fair and honest, but then you Democrats who accuse Bush of stealing the election both times should be comfortable with that idea. The government is under the control of the mullahs, who see that their only way to maintain control over the people of Iran is the old-fashioned way, by finding someone else to blame their problems on, in this case, America. It is an old tactic of totalitarians to find an external enemy to focus people's attention on, so that they don't think about the poor job you are doing running the country. It's easier than admitting you don't know WTF you are doing. But a fair number of Iranians know the true score, thanks to American inventions: the Internet and satellite TV. But don't think they would welcome us as liberators, nobody likes their home invaded, not even if supposedly "for their own good." http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93249Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:39:28 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93249DeedeeYes, americans, get out of this country once a while, it will do you good! This country has become the most agressive and violent country of the so called civilized world! Thanks to Bush and Cheney's ignorance and stupidity! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93250Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:42:12 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93250Chris J, FLThey wanna bring death to America? Get in line then! I think we're just the world's favorite country to hate right now. It's all America's fault. They're all simple minded. If America does die they'll realize soon we were not their problem and that goes to who ever is saying it and for whatever reasons. Talk is cheap! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93251Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:43:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93251Richard Kraft, Baker City, OR.Is it not amazing how much smarter the people of the world are then the governments that are suppose to oversee them. Why can't we connect the dots...Amer. Egypt, Iran, England, France, Asia, etc. We all want the same, to live together in peace and enjoy the fruits of life. It's time for a change, maybe to start here in the U.S...Make things happen where people can agree through diplomacy world wide. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93254Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:44:54 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93254BehzadFor those of you who don't know, the reason the Iranians tolerate the mullahs is because they have no choice. If this regime is uprooted believe me the Iranians would string up the mullahs from every street light. You have no idea how they're hated. Now to let you know why they hate the US government, some public domain info: The CIA took out the democratically elected PM of Iran in the 1950s, and replaced him with a ruthless puppet. Would you like it if another country did that to you? duh. I remember when I was living there as a kid, when there were lots of Americans around, there was a law passed that if an American driver killed an Iranian in Iranian streets, he could not be tried. Nice way to make friends eh? Next time the US government wants people abroad to like them, they should try something extraordinarily different and not abuse, exploit and murder those people. Genius ain't it? I figured it out all by myself! If anyone did to the US what the US did to Iran, the people here would be doing a lot more than just SAYING "death to that country," they would be tearing them limb from limb! The mullahs are in power BECAUSE of the US, which created the conditions that brought fundamentalist extremists to power. As you sow, so shall you reap, remember? Focus on that while you say OMMMMMMM....http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93255Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:47:59 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93255Daniel, Columbia SCIf they love America so much why don't they get rid of the Mohammadan hate mongers.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93256Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:48:02 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93256halbickI cannot fault anyone that supports their homeland. They did not bring the war to the U.S.A. dont blame them for wanting to defend their country. During WW2 the french were resistence fighters and today they Iraqui is a terrorist. Who's the terrorist in their eyes.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93258Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:50:40 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93258John Smith, Havertown, PAits good to know that the people of iran are not brainwashed by their government. good storyhttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93259Sat, 17 Mar 2007 22:52:52 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93259Tom, Alexandria, VirginiaTo: Charles, Tampa, FL Charles, we elected our government here in the US. How many choices did you feel you had to pick from? A lot of us here in the US feel that the dynasties are chosen for us. We only get to pick from a couple of candidates that have enough money to get to the finals.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93261Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:04:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93261S. Jones, Oxford,MS.Glen...You seem to have hit the nail on the head. We do not need to police the world and money spent in forign aide could well be used here to cover Medicare and Medicaide programs and all programs to help the needy here in the USA.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93263Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:15:32 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93263shane, Bellingham, WashingtonTo Charles in Tampa who wrote..."And yet, these are the same people who elected their government. Just as the rest of the world holds all Americans responsible for their government's actions, so are the Iranian people viewed as allowing their mullahs and government officials to speak for them." It sounds as if the people questioned in Tehran are very similar to probably most Americans. Most of us do not have any personal/direct issues with Iran, but our Government has issues, for whatever reasons, and if we need to show support during a conflict I'm sure most Americans will. Most Governments are as corrupt as ours(at varying degrees), but yet they are able to function and interact at an international level, in which they've done so during different leaderships. Not only do more Americans and more citizens in countries throughout the world need to become more active in the entire political process, but they also need to become more aware of the industries and corporations that really drive our government's policies and actions. Also the media, around the world needs more reporters like Mr. Ian Williams here, that will get under-investigated information, information that does not come directly from the leaders or government officials. It's a good thing. Are you comfortable with your leader speaking for you, us, America? After all, did you not say you are responsible for our President's words and our government's actions. What will you do? http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93264Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:16:49 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93264Lloyd, Livermore, CAThis is the first "blog" that I have ever read or responded to. It may be the last. What disheartens me about the comments submitted is how illiterate the average American respondent is. We should at least learn to use our own language before we cast our musings around the world. As a comment, I will say that I have just read Scott Ritter's "novel" about "Target Iran". One strawman after another. It's a good thing that he has changed careers and become fireman. Upstate New York will be safer now.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93266Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:21:32 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93266Connie Pafford, Jackson, TennesseeI appreciate a story allowing Americans a small glimpse of Iranian reality. As it is in America too, governments don't always reflect every nuance and thought process of it's country's people.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93268Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:23:41 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93268Charles, Greensboro, N.C.It is hard for me to believe that the average Iranian is a hate monger. I don't travel outside the U.S. because of the militant crazies, but I know that if it comes down to love and prosperity, we are the same. The average Iranian must look at his/her children and love them with the same amount that any American does. If we can bridge the gap between our cultures with respect for life and law, (By the way, this includes a mutual respect between Israel & Iran) then we can start to see that we are more alike than different. Governments cause problems for people sometimes and I believe that President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is causing unnecessary pain for his country. Why does Ahmadinejad need to threaten the existence of Israel? President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad needs to change course because the U.S. will stand up against aggresion from Iran toward Israel. We (U.S.A.) don't have any choice but to listen to what Ahmadinejad is saying and try to calculate why he insists on enriching U-235 to point it can be used as a weapon. Some people may say, "the USA and Israel have weapons, why not Iran", and I say it is balanced already. Israel with their back to the sea has not unleashed the nuclear destruction on its neighbors despite being constantly pressured to give up its borders. They don't want to destroy the people of Iran; they just want to be left alone.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93269Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:26:25 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93269Bill, NJWhat if we pass a law that says when heads of governments can't get along, instead of sending our country's youth to fight their country's youth,only the heads of government have to fight until one side has wiped out the other.If they were the ones risking their lives I bet these so called leaders would look a lot harder for a peaceful solution to their differences.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93270Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:26:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93270Matt ,Bellingham, WAOver-simplifications to drum up fear are the tactics of morally bankrupt leaders. Most major countries have experienced fear merchants for leaders in the past century. It should be the job of leaders to avoid needless wars and to attack the clear villans (Hitler) after there has been clear acts of villany(like unprovoked aggression). Attacking Iran opens a whole new dynamic that most Americans are clueless about(as with Iraq). The amount of tough talk is concerning and it may be a case of both countries suffering from poor leadership. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93271Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:28:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93271BenThe fact that these young people do not also hate the U.S.A is probably only because of the fact that they don't remember the atrocities committed onto their country post-WWII at the hands of Eisenhower and Churchhill.(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammed_Mossadegh) to "Protect their investments". Just because something is good for America does not mean that it is good for the rest of the world (United Fruit Company) and the U.S had enough power that it is responsible for more than just it's own interests I believe that if Americans knew more about their history they would no longer be so quick to ignorant patriotism and would be more capable of making a rational desicion based on facts rather than ethnocentrism. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93274Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:34:52 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93274Joaquin, Sacramento, CaliforniaBefore you get the impression that the average Iranian don't hate America, consider the article if it was written in the opposite order. It would go something like this, "Here in Iran we interviewed a few Iranians who said that they do not have any problem with America, but just across the way there are tens of thousands at the Tehran University mosque chanting 'Death to America!'". http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93275Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:36:07 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93275Art SimpsonGlen in Whitehall: In every social construct there is a leader and the rest are followers. Families, businesses, governments and the world. If we are not the world's cop, then someone else will be. Whom would you choose if not the U.S? It's a messy job, but obviously we are not trying to take over the world since we give everybody money and are trying to give the Iraqis freedom and an infrastructure that will let them be prosperous and live in peace. Can you think of any other country in the world whose soldiers are willing to die for some other countries freedom? Seems to me that the countries of the Middle East, especially Saudia Arabia and Iran want us dead. Do want them to be the cop? What about Japan? Would they make a good cop? What about China? What about Russia? The fact of the matter is that America is the best country in the world and if we are not the cop, the world will decend into chaos.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93278Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:37:26 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93278Wayne Umbertis, Las Vegas, NevadaGood article. The fact that the findings are surprising is the rather amazing part. People the world over are all of the same race, the human race, and are very similar in their dreams, likes/dislikes and basic acceptance of others. The myth machine drums out generalizatons, whether the government or media in pursuit of ratings, about countries and their people that simply have nothing to do with reality. I have had the good fortune to travel much of the world and have never found a single place where I found it more difficult than in the US to form friendships or enjoy the country and the people. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93279Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:38:42 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93279jay,minnesotahey joe,nc, I suppose christians allowed freedom of religion when it ruled from rome for over a few thousand years. Brush off the dirt?...after cities and nations were destroyed, millions killed or enslaved. Matter a fact I will bet no other two religions are closer in text and philosophy. Even our governments, who are run by a figurehead, are based upon religious morals and beliefs. homophobia, stem cell research, abortion, the death penalty, please tell me a part of our government that is not religiously influenced. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93280Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:40:34 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93280D Jans, Bloomfield, MIDeath to America? Why? What can you say about a country with intents to develop a nuclear bomb and officially say "Death to America"? And what should the leaders of our country do? I think our official response has been too limited. I'm really going to be releived now that I know a few young people are not concerned about the US, they are not any different then our young nieve people. They are self centered and involved in their own lives as well.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93281Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:40:39 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93281R. MurphyThe Iranian and Iraqi people need to take charge of their own destiny. I watched a documentary about a mixed up 16 year old girl (in Iran) whose worst crime was sitting with a male her own age in a diner and having a cup of coffee; who was first beaten (caned 90 times) and then murdered in a public hanging for, "crimes against chastity." Not a sole raised their hand to stop it. There's more to the story that make it even more tragic but the bottom line is that all these "manly men" who talk tough about fighting America, allow the bullying of their weak, especially women, and don't have the courage to stand up to their rogue government, much less America. This leads me to reach the conclusion that these "manly men" must approve or even enjoy watching this ghastly kind of atrocity. Iran is run by bullies and bulling Americans isn't going to happen. Any true American values his/her freedom and the lives and freedom of their children more than their own life. America is not perfect but I know that if a little girl is being beaten and murdered in a public square by a band zealot cowards I, and my neighbors (male and female) would have the courage to stand up and stop it even if it cost some, or all of us, our lives. Our soldiers are sacrificing their comfort and their lives every day to promote freedom and justice in this world. If Iranian and Iraqi people aren't willing to put their voices much less, their lives on the line the way Americans (not just soldiers, all of us) do, then they are not going to have freedom. And, if these people don't have the courage to stand up to the rogue terrorists running their government, they shouldn't expect us to stand idly by while they create weapons of mass destruction. The Iranian gov't. has proven it can't be trusted to be humane, much less benevolent, and I'll be damned if I'm going to allow them access to weapons of mass destruction and I'll be damned if I'll stand by and allow them the opportunity to harm my countrymen much less my family. If these folks want to be my friend, they need to get control of their country before we allow ourselves to ally them in a trusting realtionship.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93288Sat, 17 Mar 2007 23:54:20 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93288Tjay,NYIt's amazing how people in coutries like this, can't organize and stand up for more freedom...are they really that much brainwashed by they're religion or government that they wont? What ever happen to good'ol; civil war or lets kick the "red coats out"! type of war?http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93289Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:00:45 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93289Sean Anomie, SF, CAI think Iran and the US are both countries with progressive, intelligent, freedom-loving peoples. Both nations are opressed by religious zealots from their respective ruling classes who, having been born into a position of priveledge, are tragically out of touch with events as they actually occur in outside the planning room. No religion is a good basis for government, not Islam, not Christianity, none of them. We should engage Iran in talks and allow their poeple to continue to get comfrtable with Western ways, so that when the Mullahs try to backlash, their support will erode. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93290Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:01:14 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93290Marat, Miami, FLMasks off! Muslim world hates West! They hate us! They just love to use the benefits of western civilization. They are laughing on us that we help them, feed them, build their economy, etc. They are not like us. Death to Iran! Death to all barberians who wish for our death! Please people, don't be too sweet - they will swallow you. God bless America! http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93291Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:05:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93291EricIt appears our government is a handy scapegoat when foreigners and most activist groups think they understand it to be malicious. People need to understand these heavy handed labels don't jive with reality. That label applies to the United States in its dealings with very large and powerful entities who seek to cheapen our lives for their own purposes which do not benefit any form of social structure. That is unless you are a dictator like Fidel Castro, the leader of a revolution (one which has yet to prove fruitful for the Cuban people) whose true ambition is to rule with absolute authority. Few people realize that our US government is a huge, complicated and slow process not like some see it as being a tool of any president or easily manipulated by any thing. One thing it does do is to make sure its citizens are not killed, its businessmen who provide our jobs can be internationally protected from fraud or harm and many other duties laid out by our constitution. If it appears heavy handed its likely it encountered a problem and as it went about solving it it suffers from critics who are not part of the solution but part of the problem. Nobody thinks war is the first solution here either. It usually is a responce to an attack but sometimes the result of many years of international negotiations failing to secure the above mentioned safety and security for all and as a resort dictated by time. In cases where peoples lives are forfeit by inaction it becomes the lesser of evils to go to war to save lives. In Iraq, it was more of having to save its people from its dictator but the entire world, Iran and Kuwait especially, paid a heavy price, save a few who actually turned a profit from sanctions. So, to all you Iranians, if your president says he wants peaceful nuclear power then why isn't the IAEA allowed full access to his program ? Simple, because he can't get caught in a lie. Take it to the bank that the entire world will not think it heavy handed if we catch him with a bomb in production and act with all means to prevent it from becoming a threat to anyone, especially you. Have a nice day and a quiet and peaceful life and don't sweat the political bickering, its not healthy. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93296Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:28:08 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93296The GeneralThe movie Patton sums it all up for us............. General Patton said "We have our troops here now, we are going to have to fight the SOB'S some time, let's kick their ass now and get it over with." If we had Patton leading us during the post-war period, the world would be sending their tax returns to Washington, and we would have Wide World of Sports... Come on people,wake up they want us dead!!!! and we must think like Patton to survive, or we will have 09/11's in every city in America.... http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93301Sun, 18 Mar 2007 00:37:56 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93301Mason Pour san jose cafine,our problem is not with the people, but the mullahs in iran getting hold of a nuke bomb,this must not happen at any cost,people of iran have no say in what their government says or does,they are prisoners! so all that is left is military action against iran and i am all for it,sooner the better. Mason san josehttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93312Sun, 18 Mar 2007 01:19:47 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93312Terry, Carrollton, TXWe are all same. Our blood color is same, our GOD is same. Problem is our BIG EGO which created WW1, WW2 and may soon create WW3. It is not that USA bomb IRAN or INDIA or Pakistan or Palestine. Problem will not be solved thru war or bombing. Problem will only be solved thru PEACE and Negotiation. We need to live our life and let other nation live their life. My dear American frineds please wake up. It is always the USA who starts war,who makes atom bomb, who drops A-Bomb killing millions and millions of innocent people. With all the Military, Intelligence, Satellite, Financial and Polital Power in world it can't win war against a tiny country like Vietnam and it will not win even in IRAQ, what a shame. We have serious problem here in this country, Chinese are banging hard on us in Manufacturing and Export, Mexican are kicking our bxxxs in every low wage job in America, Indians are kicking out Americans in IT field. Our border is a mess, our health care is a mess, our education system is a mess, American kids are at the bottom of score card. Why can't we solve these real problems. Why do we have to have war with IRAN or Pakistan. God bless America and all other nation in world. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93313Sun, 18 Mar 2007 01:22:31 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93313Stephen Nobleville, INMost people may not realize but Iran's youth culture is truly on the verge of cultural revolution. Two-thirds of the population is under the age of 30, this is a true fact. What is also fact is that the young population in Iran is ready for change. I truly believe that education will be the foundation for cultural change in Iran, and as the young people educate themselves further I think we will see a major cultural shift that will eventually lead to a seperation of church and state which is truly needed for Iran to move forward. As Americans, we need to be strong, however, we need to be understanding as well. Threatening the Iranian people with war is definately not the answer, this would do nothing but reinforce the ideologies of the old hardliners that are running the country with their religious fanaticism/ideaologies and would also push the young Iranians of today into the hardliner mentality. The old Iranian hardliners don't want change, they fear change...the young Iranians want change, but they fear voicing this desire. We need to respect that, and as Americans we should help facilitate that change without taking away their identity as a culture, by educating the need for seperation of church and state, and by respecting their heritage and the fears they face. Yes we should be cautious, but we should also be humanitarian in our efforts and try to encourage an understanding between our two cultures. We need to start fostering and not forcing our ideologies on these people. Iran is truly at a turning point, and just because you may hear them chanting "death to America" doesn't necessarily mean that they want war nor necessarily death to Americans. You hear these chants because its forced down their throats by the hardliners and has been reinforced by our strongarm actions in the past....Like this report has shown, most people in Iran like our culture and want better lives, however, if they speak out loud they will certainly be thrown into the face of evil. Its time for Americans to put capable people in office that can 1) realize just how serious of a situation we are currently in 2) sieze the opportunity that has alotted itself in Iran with the rise of the youth culture and its desires. We are truly at the apex of our civilization, a time where we can "make" or "break" history. We cannot afford to faulter in this, for if we do, we could possibly foster a hate throughout the islam world that may never be reversed. I don't know about you people but I am tired of all the hate in this world....and I have a strong feeling that the Iranian people (especially the young people) are tired of the hate as well...lets do something positive for once, lets make history, lets make peace, lets love, respect and grasp the gift of life that God has granted us all.....http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93328Sun, 18 Mar 2007 02:45:53 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93328A TaremiIran is a great country with over 2500 years of history. They wrote the first human rights declration in mankind history. US sent its firat ambbasador to Iran in 1864. I rhink it is about time US trust Iran and treat them a nation with great things to offer. both sides will benfit from it. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93334Sun, 18 Mar 2007 02:57:19 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93334Stephen, Syracuse, New YorkI am willing to imagine the same thing occurs around the world in all other countries where extremists chant "Death to America." It happens a lot because of one main thing, the media! I don't understand why more reporters and journalists don't report like this. This is what people all around the world should see, reporting that shows each other in a positive way. Wouldn't that make a better step to everyone just getting along? I love this report. Completely made my day!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93335Sun, 18 Mar 2007 03:00:08 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93335Yashar Vaef, Iowa City, IowaAs an Iranian born refugee of the Iran-Iraq War, I'm so grateful that you decided to cover the true face of Iran. If you guys recall, a recent PEW poll found that only Israeli's have a more favorable view of Americans than Iranians in the entire region. The truth is that Iranians despise their government in mass, led by the rebellious youth who dominate the population and are immersed in many aspects of Western lifestyle (typically American culture). Tehran is now the nose job capital of the world. Philosopher Immanuel Kant's work has now been re-published in Farsi more than any other language in the world within the last 5 years. Farsi is now the 4th most common language among blogs in the world, many of these blogs written in English. I suggest anyone interested take a look at these blogs, you will find an Iranian culture and mindset not too different than your neighbors in the states. The truth is, Iranians want democracy in the long term. It doesn't happen over night, they have taken necessary steps and will continue to sacrifice. But an American strike against Iran will unfortunatley put an end to the Iranian movement for regime change, not strengthen it.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93343Sun, 18 Mar 2007 03:35:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93343MyselfI just read every comment on this article as I was about to board an airplane to come home to the Good Ol' USA from overseas on a business trip. What every American truly needs to realize is much social responsibilty we have been given. It is time that we as Americans in our own country begin the painful change of our political processes. That is really what the rest of the world is upset about. Not our country itself or our people but our political involvement in it.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93344Sun, 18 Mar 2007 03:39:06 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93344Tony , Wickenburg, AZ.Racist jargin by the Iranian parliment , to bad , man is it gonna take another 100 years to work towards concensus ???? And why don't we develop Hydrogen fuel , the world is loaded with Ocean , there is no way to use it up , and in 30 years we will need the desalinated drinking water to boot !!!!!!!!!!!!!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93352Sun, 18 Mar 2007 04:25:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93352George, CaliforniaDoes anyone doubt that the good people of Iran will give nuclear bombs to Hamas and other terrorist groups when they are able? Who do you think is working on nuclear technology? It isn't the clerics. It is of course the educated "we are just like Americans" Iranian. I saw plenty of these "we are just like Americans" Iranians taking nuclear engineering classes at Iowa State University in the late 70s (all expenses paid by the Iranian government). We have been given proof on what Muslim fanatics will do. Just look at the barbaric and cowardly bombing they do around the world in country after country killing anyone without regard to race, age, gender and creed. And the average Muslim does nothing to stop it. What is the average Iranian doing to stop this cowardly bombing of civilians that is being done around the world? Nothing. But there are plenty of average Iranians supporting terrorists around the world. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93367Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:15:48 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93367Esmail Karamnejad, Let me remind you that Islam was imposed on Iranian people by the same people who are fighting to get US out of Iraq. Iranian people are not religious fanatic they tolerate religion. I must say chanting Death to America" is pretty stupid so is calling “excess of evils” the two nations have more in common then must people realize. One thing for sure extremism does not work. People of Iran will grow out of religious control democracy and will manage to turn that into a true democracy one day.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93371Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:23:50 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93371Kate, RIThis article is responsible journalism, demonstrating that no country, political decision, or people exist in black and white. We all need to take responsibility and work to unearth the other side of the story. In America, America good, Iran bad. In Iran, America bad, Iran good. Neither country is either/or. It is a breath of fresh air to read a little unbiased reporting. Some of these ignorant comments, however, have made an uplifting experience sour. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93374Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:52:37 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93374Matt, Omaha, Nebraskato anyone who ask why dont the people stand up to the goverment i say this what do you do when you disagree with this government you sit in your house watching tv or go to the mall and buy things made in China where people make 12 cents an hour. Then when asked if you would pay higher prices you say no. This is whats wrong with our country and why people hate us in the world because we act like our interests are the only interests and sometimes that leaves a bitter taste on other peoples' palates.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93375Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:55:32 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93375roanoke vaSomeone commented that the Iranian people should just topple there government because they dont like their leaders. Very interesting, imagine if and this is a big if, the dissatisfied americans in this country tried the same action as you advise the Iranians to take. Our very own government would not even give a second thought to turning law enforcement and the military against its own citizens, the only differnce would be our government would find a way to justify such actions and retain power, then tell the people whats best for them. the fact of the matter is everyone will fight to protect their own, but the powerful use the poor with the faslehoods of glory, and heroism, and the lies that they will be cared for when they come home to get us to fight for this country. U.S soldiers are mainly out there fighting for the guys that soldier with them, the pay and the next to worthless health benefits for their families. Poor boys that had no chance getting a job because the jobs were outsourced. As for the muslims, hey your government keeps all your cash ,tells you everything you can and cant do, the only real hope in your life is your god, no disrepect but those fellas are eating from the same cake as us poor boys but they just didnt get any icing... so when their clerics tell them to fight for allah and he wil provide for them and watch over them and their families, what do you think they are gonna dohttp://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93376Sun, 18 Mar 2007 05:55:37 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93376Igor, Walntut Creek, CAI am sure if you talked to ordinary Germans in 1939 you'd meet a lot of nice people who really didn't have their mind set on killing millions of people or conquering Europe. However, that other, nicer, side of Germany didn't really matter, in the end. And when the push came to shove, almost everybody fell back in line. The same WILL happen with Iran. They have to be knocked out before we suffer pointlessly.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93379Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:06:15 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93379Steve, Las Vegas, NVJust like the people of the United States elected a rouge government so did the people of Iran. The difference is that the president of Iran has absolutley no power at all he is more or less a figure head. The real power lies in the hands of a few radical mullahs. Until this world realizes that organized religion is one of the most evil cults to ever occupy this Earth we will all live with the danger of anihilation simply from the belief in a "god". To be ignorant enough to actually believe what these clerics tell the masses both in Iran and the US proves that by only education and reason can we survive. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93380Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:19:36 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93380Ima Still Here, Raceway, IndTo the comment "If Iranians dont want the U.S. and its allies to attack then they should topple their government. " Since we Americans do not want our government(what allies to we still have?) attacking Iran, we should step up and topple our government. The current criminals in charge of our government should be indicted, prosecuted and imprisoned(or hanged). Have a nice day.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93384Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:31:53 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93384Antonio Lee, Portland . OregonWE are all human beings, and we need to learn how to be together. Let's all look to the law of life and obey the law. For the Law says:"Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor's life, do not hate your brother in your heart, do not seek revenge or bear a grdge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. As we do this we can be together. For the world belong to everone.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93387Sun, 18 Mar 2007 06:40:17 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93387Karen UPeaseful religion? Yeah right. What about the tenant of their religion that says it's right and ok to lie to the "infadels" Yeah they like us when we are face to face with them, but they wouldn't hesitate to behead us the minute we let our guard down because they say they like us. That's what they want us to do, put our guard down. NEVER PUT YOUR GUARD DOWN WITH THEM!!http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93397Sun, 18 Mar 2007 09:07:33 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93397T. Roy, CAD Jans, Death to America comes from a history of US meddling in Iran. It comes from overthrowing Mossaeq the democratically elected prime minister of Iran by CIA and 40 years of support for a dictator who killed and tortured thousands of Iranian people. For 28 years of economic sanction. For supporting Saddam Hussain to kill half a million Iranians. For downing a passenger plain with 290 civilians, 80 children...etc. I have a long list of reasons for that Death to America rhetoric, not that I support it. I am just giving you a little history lesson since your free media wont. http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93398Sun, 18 Mar 2007 09:23:11 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93398Nellie Desai, Belmont, CAI have had the Good Fortune to have lived in Iran, pre Revolution. I am very proud to belong to the Zoroastrian Faith that dates back to about 600B.C. My ancestors were from Ancient Persia, who with the invasion of the Arabs, and their persecution of our people, fled to the shores of India. Iran is indeed a beautiful country deep rooted with History and Culture. Now, I am PROUD to be a U.S. Citizen. My deep level of patriotism is for my New Country. I am so blessed to be able to living, working, making new friends with wonderful people and enjoying the privileges of this Great Nation of ours. The people of Iran are good people, but it is their clergy and the few fanatical minded that are causing a sense of unrest and instability within the country. After all, they were the ones that elected that trouble maker to power. So DON'T Blame the US. Why Death to America, Why? To the People of Iran, please don't be hypocritical. Live and Let Live, we are God fearing humans just as you are. NAVROZ MUBARAK to all who celebrate this ancient festival of Spring and New Year to some. PS: Mel Gibson needs to take some History Lessons before making such Historically Misguided Movies. Our Persian Kings were Great Humanitarians that practiced religious tolerance. Cyrus The Great was the first one to write the Charter of Human Rights, that which is now enshrined in the UN.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93413Sun, 18 Mar 2007 12:48:51 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93413Brian, AZIran is a direct threat to US troops over-seas. I have done several tours and cannot tell how many times we were actively engaged by Iranian Snipers. So for all of you who think Iran is some poor victim getting bullied by the big bad Americans, your lack of knowing what the heck you are talking about is making you sound stupid. If America is so bad, feel free to not let the door hit you on the way out.http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#93793Mon, 19 Mar 2007 12:46:43 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:93793TehranI am Iranian . have you ever thought that how much do you know iranians ? do you think you can know iranian behaviours with a short trip in the capital of it? iran has got 70 millions population that just 4 million of them live in tehran ! i'm iranian but i really say that i don't know iranians ! if you look at the last president election of iran , nobody thought that Ahmadinejad would be The President Of iran! so how do you say your opinion about IRAN ???http://worldblog.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/03/17/92947.aspx#94273Mon, 19 Mar 2007 20:44:00 GMT8a5d2dbc-a0e4-4c7a-979f-3188051f228e:94273Allison, IllinoisTo Esmail Karamnejad and other Iranians who have posted on this site- My name is Allison. I'm from the mid western US. I'd like to porpose an idea to all of you. I think it would be interesting to develop an dialogue between American citizens and Iranian citizens in some kind of chat room or through a blog. I recently watched a documentary done by the BBC about Tehran and must admit that I am fascinated by your culture. I wish to someday travel to your country. I also find it interesting that so many Americans share something in common with all of you--I'm ashamed of my government and how it does such aweful things in MY name. I want to change this, in fact, I've tried. I've written my representatives in Congress, the President, the VP and others, but they don't listen. So what do you say? How about we attempt to undermine the political rhetoric and prove that they don't speak for us?