Major cleric says security in Iraq possible when US pulls out forces

Tehran, NU Online
Substitute leader of Tehran's Friday prayers Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati said here the US is a partner of all the corruption, insecurity and explosions in Iraq and if it really wants to provide security in Iraq, it should pull out its forces.

Speaking to thousands of worshipers at Tehran University Campus, Ayatollah Jannati said, "If you (US) believe in democracy, and you don't, the Iraqis have elected a government which should run the affairs in Iraq and you must leave the country with its people." "After you leave Iraq, we will give our help to provide security and Iraqis will feel relaxed in a short while.'<>

On negotiations between Iran and US which was held last Monday in Baghdad, Ayatollah Jannati said, "We haven't retracted our principles and our position regarding the US remains unchanged."
"They insistently asked for talks through formal and informal channels the first session of which was held," the Ayatollah said.

"The hostility between Iran and US, which is not a personal dispute rather a fighting over principles, is still here with us." Ayatollah Jannati said, "We believe that justice should be administered and the oppressed should be supported."

"You (US) kill the innocent in Palestine, exert pressure on Hizbollah, make mischief everyday, and loot people's property. Why are you causing discord in the Muslim world?" the Ayatollah said. (irn/dar)