4/4/2024
The Honorable Joseph Biden
President of the United States
1600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20500
Dear President Biden,
As academicians, we write to express our profound concern about the ongoing violence in the Middle East since the tragic events of October 7th. This date marked a significant escalation in the regional conflict, underscoring the urgency to address the root causes of instability: the oppressive Iranian regime. This regime has a decades long history of employing domestic and regional violence to maintain its hegemony, and to spread its venomous ideology.
The Iranian mullahs are the hydra headed monsters of war and terrorism in the Middle East. Their support for proxy militias and terrorist groups has fueled wars and immense suffering and instability. This legacy of destruction and despair is a grim reminder that appeasing this murderous regime has worldwide consequences, and only allows its destructive influence to persist unchecked.
We assert that the real power to sever the “heads of the snake” in Tehran and bring about a just and lasting peace to the Middle East, lies with the Iranian people. Since 2018, Iran has witnessed a series of nationwide uprisings, each more determined and longer-lasting than the previous ones. These uprisings are a testament to the unwavering spirit of Iranians, who have rejected the theocratic rule and a vivid reminder of their aspiration for self-determination. These acts of resistance are a long call of yearning for a future free from any form of tyranny, and a free and democratic Iran.
The middle east is at an inflection point. Unfortunately, the current policies are only obstacles to the noble cause of the people of Iran. At this critical juncture, the United States must instead choose to stand with them and adopt an unyielding policy of firmness and decisiveness against the mullahs. It is time to stand in solidarity with the Iranian people, in their quest to uproot this scourge of conflict and repression.
A 2022 letter, endorsed by over 4,400 university faculty members across the United States, emphasized the Iranian people’s right to self-defense in their pursuit of sovereignty and self-determination. The world must acknowledge their right to defend themselves against the terrorist IRGC and their rightful aspiration to establish a democratic, secular republic accountable to its people. This is a strategic necessity for the region and the world.
Thank you for considering our perspective on this critical issue. With decisive action and steadfast commitment, we can contribute to a more secure, and prosperous Middle East.
Sincerely,
Signed by 100s of US University Professors comprising American Nobel laureates, Templeton Laureates, members of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, and recipients of numerous prestigious accolades.
NOTE: List of signatories will be provided only to accredited journalists.