WHOSE VOICE IS IT?

 Telecommunications and media are the most vital tools in modern society. They exist to connect the public through professional, accurate reporting. In times of crisis, this responsibility becomes a matter of life and death. History shows us that when external resources cover internal news, they have the power to change minds and influence major decisions. This is exactly why even the smallest piece of misinformation can lead to a massive disaster.

Currently, we are seeing a flood of news, videos, and images from Iran. Despite the internet being blocked and phone lines being cut, we continue to observe reports of violence and destruction. However, there is a troubling trend in how this is being covered. International media is heavily highlighting the previous Iranian flag—the symbol of those seeking a return to the monarchy.

As a Canadian-Iranian writer who believes in freedom and respect for national symbols, I am deeply concerned. It appears that instead of staying neutral, many journalists are taking sides. By exaggerating the presence of the "kingdom" supporters, they are distracting the world from the real, hidden issues behind the Iranian people's anger.

I do not wish to belittle the suffering of those who were forced into exile after the revolution. Their pain is real. However, I do not believe that in 2026, the majority of people wish to live in a country where a leader is chosen simply because of their father’s legacy.

• In the modern world, even presidents are limited to two terms for a logical reason.

• Political groups must look back at their own history, evaluate their successes and failures, and understand that the world has moved forward.

The current propaganda regarding a return to the monarchy and the insults directed at the official Iranian flag are far from the standards of accountability in journalism.

• When the media supports or ignores the burning and tearing of a national flag, it invites a cycle of hatred that will eventually return to those same countries.

• A flag is a sign of a country’s worth; when its value is lowered, the security of all national symbols is put at risk.

We must ask ourselves: Would you allow citizens of other countries to vote in your domestic elections? The answer is no. For that same reason, only the citizens living within a land have the right to decide who runs it. While it is natural for the diaspora to be concerned, we must be honest: with the communication systems shut down, we do not have the full story.

My Plea to Journalists: Please be careful. These coverages are extremely sensitive. They can lead to further killing, attacks, and even war. At best, they create a grudge against countries that tried to take advantage of a crisis to support specific opposition groups.

I ask you to stand with free speech, show respect to the flag, and remain silent if you are not fully aware of the real story.