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Wednesday's Daily Briefing on Iran

DoctorZin reports, 6.8.2005:


Iran set to win a spot on the World Cup - Massive Celebrations and Unrest Expected

Gulf Times:
Iran is looking for a comfortable home draw against Bahrain tomorrow and the one point needed to secure qualification for the 2006 World Cup (WC) in Germany.

I am told we should expect huge celebrations across Iran, if today, they win a place in the World Cup. Iranian opposition groups are poised to take advantage of the celebrations to voice their anger at the regime and need for real democracy in Iran. Things are heating up.
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Wednesday, June 08, 2005

Iran Police Alert Before World Cup Qualifier Match


June 08, 2005
Reuters
Parisa Hafezi


TEHRAN -- Security was tight at Tehran's Azadi stadium on Wednesday ahead of a World Cup soccer qualifier against Bahrain which could spark wild street celebrations if the Iranian team wins. Iran needs a draw to repeat its feats of 1978 and 1998 by joining the world's soccer elite at the World Cup Finals in Germany next summer.

In the past, raucous post-match celebrations with young people dancing in the streets have turned political with many shouting slogans against the clerical state's rulers and smashing windows of public buildings.

The game comes ahead of presidential elections June 17, pitting former members of Iran's hardline Revolutionary Guards against outspoken reformists and pro-business pragmatist Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani.

"All the necessary measures have been taken for a peaceful match," Tehran police spokesman Mohammad Tourang told Reuters. "We are ready to control those who will try to create unrest."

Soccer is a national obsession in Iran and the match has comfortably overshadowed lacklustre interest in the elections.

"This is a good chance for the establishment. If they let us celebrate, we will change our minds and vote," joked Mina, 17.

The youth vote is important with half the population under the age of 25 and a minimum voting age of 15.

Witnesses said security was heavy around the 100,000 capacity stadium.

"To secure people's safety, only 70,000 fans are allowed to show up for the match," said Tourang.

Analysts said post-match celebrations were an excuse for the young to vent their frustrations at limited political and social freedoms in the Islamic state.

Hours before the game, cars toured the streets hooting their horns and teenagers waved Iran's national flag, while police kept a watchful eye.

"We will definitely win. I will dance and celebrate until morning," said university student Mostafa, 21.

link to original article
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The Sun Is Rising In The West!Soon It Will Shine on All of Iran!