A Heartfelt Plea: Why Must We, Iranians, Be Killed?
What sin have we, Iranians, committed to deserve being killed like this? Is it not the desire of an Iranian father to return home with gifts, to be greeted warmly by his wife and children? Is it not the dream of a student, after diligent study, to achieve a perfect score, to share the joy with their parents, to hear words of praise and bring honor to their family? Is it not the ambition of an athlete, through years of sacrifice and training, to strive for championship, to reach the World Cup and the Olympics? Is it not the aspiration of a scholar, after three decades of university life, research, and writing, to attain the heights of academia, to become a professor, and finally, to live peacefully with their family, nurturing their personal and collective growth? These are but a few examples of a normal life, a life mocked and disrupted by wars such as the recent US-Israeli conflict inflicted upon Iranian soil. Lives are abruptly halted, individuals from all walks of life – with different levels of education, culture, and family backgrounds – are easily killed. Life comes to a standstill, and all that remains is a war over a loaf of bread. Collective anxiety ensues; people stand weeping by the graves of their loved ones, lamenting the loss of their most cherished connections, while the relentless bombardment—like that seen in Gaza—rains down on Tehran and other Iranian cities, ending with the smug smile of a pilot who may or may not know what they are bombing. And once again, we Iranians will witness the celebration of American and Israeli air force pilots by the US President, while grieving families hear how those who martyred our youth are lauded and praised. This is the story of our lives these past few years, all for the sake of Jewish peace and Israeli security! This is our story and the greatest injustices we witness. And yet, we are told to remain silent, to not react, and that if we do, we will face an attack unlike any seen or heard before. This is the tale of modern-day bullying.
An Open Letter | Echoes of Sorrow and the Roots of Inequality
This profound and heartbreaking question reverberates in the hearts and minds of many Iranians. It is a challenge to the very essence of a normal life and shattered dreams. “What sin have we, Iranians, committed to deserve being killed like this?” This question is not merely about a war or a single event, but a plea concerning the meaning of life, justice, and the destiny of a nation.
The Vanished Dream of a Life
The imagery within this letter embodies simple, human aspirations: a father returning home with gifts, a student striving for academic excellence, an athlete pursuing championship glory, and a researcher reaching the pinnacle of their profession. These are dreams held within every society, in the heart of every individual. Rights that are rightfully deserved, yet easily trampled upon by war and inequality.
“These are but a few examples of a normal life, a life mocked and disrupted by wars such as the recent US-Israeli conflict inflicted upon Iranian soil.”
The Bitterness of Celebrating the Killers
The pain intensifies when those who extinguish these dreams are honored. Hearing praise for pilots who take innocent lives, and the disparagement of grieving families, offers no solace but fans the flames of anger and sorrow. This injustice is a cry stifled, manifesting in the tears and wails of mourners.
Imposed Silence and Threats of Repetition
Attempts to silence these voices and impose silence only deepen the pain. The threat of further attacks for any reaction epitomizes oppression and suppression. It not only denies the right to self-defense but also fosters a climate of fear and insecurity.
“And yet, we are told to remain silent, to not react, and that if we do, we will face an attack unlike any seen or heard before. This is the tale of modern-day bullying.”
The Roots of Inequality
This letter extends beyond a personal grievance, pointing to a deeper, global issue: inequality. Inequality of power, of justice, and of the value placed on human life. This inequality stems from history, politics, and the interests of those in power who are willing to sacrifice innocents to maintain their dominance.
An Echo of Hope
Despite all the pain and inequality, hope remains. It lies in remembering our shared humanity, striving for justice, and standing against oppression.
This letter is not just an expression of pain, but a call for reflection, empathy, and action. It reminds us that we must strive for a more just and humane world, where the right to life and the pursuit of dreams are recognized for all.
A contribution from Madadkar News Agency
