Why Iran has condemned US military action in Venezuela | DW News

Key Concepts

• Venezuelan Operation: Large-scale military operation conducted by the US in Venezuela, resulting in the reported capture of President Nicolas Maduro.
• Iranian Protests: Ongoing protests across Iran against the Islamic Republic, resulting in casualties and arrests.
• US-Iran Tensions: Escalating tensions between the US and Iran, including warnings of potential military action.
• International Isolation of Iran: Loss of key allies (Syria & Venezuela) contributing to Iran’s increasing international isolation.
• Iranian Public Opinion: Divided views within Iran regarding potential foreign interference, with a strong desire for self-determination and democracy.

Venezuela & Iran: A Developing Crisis

The broadcast focuses on two interconnected breaking news stories: a large-scale US military operation in Venezuela and escalating protests within Iran. The US has confirmed its military carried out an operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who was reportedly flown out of the country by US troops and law enforcement. Footage from Caracas showed explosions and jets flying over the city around 2:00 a.m. local time, prompting Venezuela to declare a national emergency and vow resistance. President Trump is expected to provide further details in a press conference.

Iran’s Response & US Warnings

Iran, a close ally of Venezuela, strongly condemned the US actions as “a blatant violation of its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.” This condemnation occurs amidst heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran, fueled by ongoing protests across Iran. Official sources report at least 10 protesters have been killed, with many more injured and arrested. President Trump issued a warning on Friday stating the US would intervene if Iran “violently kills peaceful protesters,” using the phrase “loaded and locked” to indicate readiness for military action. At least 17 people have been killed during the protests so far, with tens more injured.

Iranian Perspective & Psychological Impact

Sema Sabet, an Iran expert, was interviewed to provide insight into the Iranian perspective. She described the news from Venezuela as causing “shock, surprise,” and a “turning point” for the Iranian population. She highlighted that Trump’s warning regarding Iran’s suppression of protests coincided with the Venezuelan developments, amplifying the sense of urgency. Sabet noted a recent online discussion she hosted on Twitter regarding the news, demonstrating widespread Iranian engagement with the unfolding events.

Loss of Allies & Increasing Isolation

Sabet emphasized the significance of Venezuela’s fall alongside Syria as a loss of crucial allies for Iran. Both Venezuela and Syria were presented as potential safe havens for Iranian officials should the Islamic Republic face internal upheaval. Their loss signifies increasing international isolation for Iran and a shift in the “new international orders” being observed. As Sabet stated, “Islamic Republic is getting isolated and losing more allies day by day.”

Protester Sentiment & Foreign Intervention

Regarding the Iranian protests, Sabet indicated that protesters are likely encouraged by Washington’s actions, seeking external support and pressure on the Iranian government. However, she cautioned against assuming a unified desire for foreign intervention. While some Iranians may welcome assistance in overthrowing the Islamic government, a majority prioritize self-determination and the right to decide their own future.

“Iranians inside Iran there are about 90 million people and these 90 million people never voted that Iranian government is going to pursue nuclear program trying to build a nuclear bomb which which will bring all these costs upon their life,” Sabet explained, highlighting the disconnect between the government’s policies and the will of the people. She further noted that Iranians have fought for democracy for a century, experiencing two revolutions that ultimately failed to establish democratic governance.

Supreme Leader’s Response & Bunker Location

The broadcast also reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei addressed the nation from a “bunker,” urging further suppression of the protests. This detail was emphasized to underscore the perceived vulnerability and desperation of the Iranian leadership.

Logical Connections

The report establishes a clear connection between the events in Venezuela and Iran. The US actions in Venezuela, coupled with its warnings to Iran, are presented as part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on regimes perceived as destabilizing forces in the region. The loss of allies for Iran, highlighted by Sabet, further reinforces this narrative of increasing isolation and vulnerability. The interview with Sabet provides crucial context, explaining how these events are perceived within Iran and the complex dynamics of public opinion regarding potential foreign intervention.

Conclusion

The unfolding situation in Venezuela and Iran represents a significant escalation of geopolitical tensions. The US appears to be taking a more assertive stance against regimes it deems hostile, while Iran faces increasing internal unrest and international isolation. The Iranian population’s desire for self-determination, coupled with the potential for further escalation, makes this a highly volatile situation with uncertain consequences. The key takeaway is the interconnectedness of these events and the potential for a broader regional shift in power dynamics.