MEMRI TV

Sadegh Zibakalam, a retired Tehran University political science professor, stated in a January 20, 2025, lecture at the Doha Arab Center that anti-Americanism, particularly the chants of “death to America,” is the “soul of the Islamic Republic of Iran.” He noted that today, young Iranians in particular hate Palestinians, are pleased with the election of Donald Trump, and “love” Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Zibakalam observed that whenever Khamenei speaks, regardless of the topic, he refers to the “heroic struggle of the Iranian people” against the United States. In 1979, he explained, Iranians from all walks of life supported the Palestinians, viewing them as heroes, while Israel was seen as “Satan.” However, he pointed out that since October 7, there has been a surprising shift, with many Iranians, especially younger people, now harboring negative feelings toward Palestinians.

Zibakalam also mentioned that Iranians were pleased with Trump’s election because he claimed to know how to tackle the Islamic Republic. Additionally, he remarked that Iranians admire Netanyahu for his statements about teaching the mullahs a lesson.

According to media reports, on January 28, 2025, charges were brought against Sadegh Zibakalam by the Iranian judiciary for statements made during this speech. Zibakalam had begun serving a three-year sentence in Evin Prison for spreading “propaganda” on May 12, but has been on medical furlough since September.