Two American hikers that were held captive by the Iranian government for two years finally returned to America today after being freed earlier this week. Ironically, they were sentenced to eight years in Iranian prison for espionage and illegally crossing the Iranian border just last month.
Joshua Fattal and Shane Bauer were very articulate as to why they were kept in jail for all those months. Their explanation: "From the very start, the only reason we have been held hostage is because we are American". If anyone didn't figure out before today, this should definitely clarify Iran's attitude towards Americans. Despite tensions being rocky ever since the Hostage Crisis of 1979, this is definitely a small step towards patching up relations. Although many people doubt things will get much better from here, we must realize that they can't get much worse (besides a confrontational episode or war).
As Americans, we need to remember that anyone who is against our citizens is against our country. What Iran did was unacceptable, without question. Their lack of leniency goes to show how ruthless they can be. If we don't stand up against their intolerable behavior, they will continue to commit unspeakable acts.
For full story, click here
I agree with most of what you said Jason. I'd just like to add that as despicable as Iran's actions may be at times, we've got to understand where they are coming from. For many decades now the United States and other prominent Western countries have bullied Iran - through putting in dictators to sanctions to wars and hostility - and we have to keep this in mind. So although it often makes people feel better to think that the Iranians are simply wild animals that like to attack innocent Americans, we must remember the history between America and Iran and how it has affected current relations. Had it not been for our behavior in the past, these situations with American prisoners could have been avoided altogether.
ReplyDelete