Interviewers: A group of reporters and Iranians residing abroad
I am grateful to the Iranians who accompanied me. I had planned to be among the nation tomorrow and share in their sufferings. But the treacherous government has prevented it and closed all the airports of Iran. And after the opening of the airports I will immediately return and make him «1» understand that he is a usurper and a betrayer of the nation; our nation will no more tolerate you- the servants of the foreigners. They must realize that the time of bullying has expired.
I call on the Iranian nation to continue the movement and to make these bullies retreat, but should not give up their peace. I thank the entire nation and in the first opportunity will go back to Iran to join the people to either be killed with them or restore the rights of the nation and return their rights to them. May you all be blessed by God.
The Iranian nation should realize that this person who has assumed power is betraying his tribe, «2» the tribe which was a backing for the nation but was overpowered by Rida Shah. This person is betraying his tribe and his nation. The Bakhtiyari tribe must remove those who betray them from the path of the nation. The army must know that they are traitors; they should not assist them. The entire Iran must bear in mind that a plot is underway; «3» they must stop this plot. This is the last step that these traitors take; and God willing we will ward off this step as well, will join you and will make them retreat.
Question: [When do you think that you will be able to go back to Iran?]
Answer: Whenever the ban is lifted and the airports are opened, I will return to Iran so that if my blood is to be shed, it is shed alongside my comrades and along with the Iranian youth. We are not afraid of this and only want the dignity of Islam and Iran.
Q: [Does His Eminence Ayatullah recommend the people to pick up arms and open the airports for your return?]
A: For the time being I do not intend to order the people to pick up arms; whenever I deem it appropriate, I will order and will make them understand what to do.
Q: [Honorable Ayatullah, do you perceive going to the airport of a country near Iran, for example Kuwait, and go to Iran from there?]
A: It should be studied.
Q: [Given that the return of the Ayatullah may cause shedding of more blood, do you still insist on going back?]
A: I must be alongside my brothers.
Q: [Is it the beginning of a new jihad?]
A: Maybe.