In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful
I would like to thank the honorable nation of Iran for their kind sympathies; especially the worthy citizens of Tehran (may God Almighty assist them) who endured many troubles and losses.
Closing the market and stores, in present atmosphere of terror and repression, and in these economic conditions was an expression of the public hatred and aversion towards the tyrannical regime. It has been repeatedly notified that the clergy mean nothing but to make reformations in the conditions of the nation and to retain the independence of the country. So guarding the laws of Islam and the Constitution that guarantees the maintenance of Ja`fari creed and laws of Islam is their first priority. Whosoever tries to encroach on the domain of Islam and its sacred laws, in whatever position they may be, will be admonished, or opposed by the clergy, as a support for you religious brothers and the great nation of Islam.
You great nation of Iran proved that you have retained your loyalty to the laws of God Almighty and the reverend status of the clergy, by leaving your works, taking the loss and the trouble; and that you totally detest those who want to take steps against the Islamic laws; may God Almighty endow you with favor and good reward.
We are under siege from every side now. Many of our telegrams are not delivered. Telegrams sent to us are mostly intercepted. The press feature articles to disgrace and insult us, either voluntarily or under pressure. Speakers are disseminating lies to disgrace and weaken the clergy who are the only support of the country; and use all sorts of slander against them. If the foreigners are to attain their evil ends, this support have to be broken down; the clergy have to undergo torture and insult; this costume deserves to be burnt! They suffered much torment, cruelty and insult during the last twenty-odd years by the agents of Britain, the historic enemy of Islam and the Orient. «1» The young can ask the elderly about it. We have to be insulted and tortured by the agents of the foreigners' agents. God Almighty is Sufficient.
At the end, I have to thank the noble Iranian nation again and ask God, the Exalted, for the glory of Islam and the Qur'an, the independence of the Islamic country and for the grace and grandeur of the followers of the Holy Qur'an. May God's peace, mercy and blessings be upon you.
Rouhullah al-Mousawi al-Khomeini