Canadian Link: http://watch.thecomedynetwork.ca/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart/full-episodes/#clip185688
US Link: http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=231561&title=reza-aslan
Reza Aslan was interviewed on the Daily Show on June 24, 2009 lauding the response of Barack Obama during the recent and ongoing revolution in Iran. Aslan notes strong parallels to ’79 noting that this revolution is likewise a battle for the future of Iran. Starting at time index 4:48, Aslan applauds Obama’s response: “Thank you God for President Barack Obama” says Aslan.
“Obama played this perfectly. During his campaign Iran never left his mouth. This worked to the disadvantage of Ahmadinejad’s because he couldn’t use his ‘America is going to attack any minute now’ rhetoric.”
Aslan notes that Ahmadinejad’s campaign slogan was “Ma Mitavanim” which is Persian for “Yes we can”.
Responding to opposition calls to make stronger statements or take stronger actions in regards to Iran Aslan warns:
“The US has a long sordid history of meddling in Iranian affairs. … If you want to pu and end to this movement, this revolution tomorrow, let’s listen to Bill Bennett, let’s listen to John McCain.”
Aslan recommends that the US continue its current approach. “The best thing that we can do is shut up.” He goes on to say that “Obama has changed the equation in that region. He is taking the long view on issues, looking ahead 10 years from now.”
Aslan is certain that Iran will emerge a different country from what it is now, but he is concerned as to what form of change will come. “Iran is on a precipice between North Korea and China; with isolation and militarization on one hand and a preservation of the oligarchies while opening to commerce and contact on the other.”
When asked what US citizens can do to help the revolution, he suggests encouraging and pressuring the EU and UN to act who do have influence in the region. As for the US, he contends “you have to have a relationship with someone in order to punish them more. … We have no influence there. … We can’t punish them any more. What are we going to do sanction them more?”
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Reza Aslan’s most recent book is “How to Win a Cosmic War”:
http://www.rezaaslan.com/cosmicwar.html
