Interviewer: A reporter of the American News World Report magazine
Question: [What would be the role of America if the Shah falls?]
Answer: All we expect from America is that they respect our national interests and our country's independence, and avoid interfering in our affairs.
Q: [In case of Russian interference, are you not afraid of its political consequences?]
A: We are not afraid of any power standing in our way to freedom and independence, and if the Russians interfere, we would treat them as we do others.
Q: [Under the new government, would Iran need sophisticated and expensive military equipment similar to what the Shah is now buying from America?]
A: We are against buying weapons which are of no use to our poor people. We haven't needed them in the past, and we won't need them in the future.
Q: [Why do you think America is trying to keep the Shah on his throne?]
A: Because the Shah is an obedient and submissive puppet when they are looting the country's resources and building military bases all across the country.
Q: [Would you be interested in selling oil to America?]
A: We would sell our oil to America and other customers, but not in the way it is being done today, which is a total loss to the nation, but by taking our national interests into consideration, and maintaining our independence.
Q: [Would there be a chance that a successful revolution in Iran would also influence the Persian Gulf countries?]
A: In today's world, no event occurs in any region without influencing other regions. However, the level of acceptance of the people in other places depends on their own awareness and preference.
Q: [You have so far not issued an order to start an armed struggle. Will you do so if the circumstances require?]
A: We hope that the nation would achieve its goals by continuing the current method. Should the Shah and his supporters not stop their stubbornness, we would then examine this issue.