“Iran Is Not Its Officials”: Minister Praises Nation’s Unity in Wake of U.S. Strikes

According to Saed News, Seyyed Abbas Salehi, Iran’s Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, praised the Iranian public for their resilience, unity, and historic instinct to stand on the right side during national crises. Following his visit to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Salehi emphasized that after the recent U.S. military strike on Iran, the country witnessed an extraordinary show of national cohesion, dismissing external assumptions of a fractured society.

Salehi strongly criticized what he called a "misguided analysis" by Israel and its intelligence allies, who had bet on Iranian social collapse. “They believed the propaganda of opposition media and misread polling data that suggested a decline in social capital. But what they underestimated was the deep-rooted fabric of Iranian identity,” he asserted.

He drew a historical parallel to Saddam Hussein’s miscalculated 1980 invasion of Iran, when the Iraqi leader expected to exploit domestic divisions and rapidly advance to Tehran. “Like then, today’s aggressors overlooked Iran’s historical anchors—the same anchors that once again stood strong,” he said.

In a pointed remark, the minister underscored the distinction Iranians make between their nation and its leadership. “Our people may criticize their officials—and rightly so—but they never confuse Iran with those in office,” Salehi said. “They do not equate Iran’s future with us, the officials. They think about Iran as a civilization, a legacy.”

Speaking from IRNA’s news studio, Salehi praised the cultural sector's spontaneous response to the crisis. “Artists, filmmakers, journalists, and writers—inside and outside Iran—acted without orders. It was a heartfelt surge,” he said, describing it as a rare moment of cultural unity not seen even in the early days of the Iran-Iraq War.

Salehi stressed the equal importance of military defense and psychological resilience, stating that "the media war is no less significant than what happens on the battlefield." He called for enhanced media literacy among the public and warned against falling prey to hasty, misinformed narratives.

On the cultural front, the minister announced a revival of public activities and a strategic use of the arts to restore social morale. “From discounted cinema tickets to upcoming street performances, we aim to keep life flowing,” he noted. “Children should not grow up in fear, and families must reclaim public spaces.”

In conclusion, Salehi offered heartfelt thanks to Iran’s journalists and media workers, stating, “You are documenting history. Your images and words today will be the nation’s memory tomorrow. In this moment of trial, you stand not just before your audience—but before history itself.”