Yes, you read it right.
Iranians have reacted to the killing of an Iranian soldier by Pakistani terrorists, by criticizing Tehran, while praising Israel’s efforts to secure the release of Gilad Shalit.
The killing of an Iranian hostage soldier by militants in Pakistan has prompted a surge of criticism via social media over Tehran’s handling of the crisis — and brought unflattering comparisons with the determination shown by Israel in a similar situation.
The failure to secure the release of five border guards snatched by the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl (Army of Justice) has been condemned across the country, with many Iranians contrasting their Government’s apparent inaction with Israel’s resolve to free one of its soldiers three years ago.
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Frustration at Tehran’s powerlessness turned to anger after the death was announced. Many noted the determination of Israel – Iran’s arch-enemy – to free Gilad Shalit..
The posts make excruciating reading for Tehran. “Keep saying ‘Death to Israel’ but they freed 1,027 Palestinians in return for the release of one of their own,” one Iranian wrote on Facebook.
“Yes, I admire Israel. The same Israel they have been wanting to wipe off the map. The same Israel who for five years tirelessly did everything to save one of its soldiers,” said another.
Most of the comparisons with the Shalit case have been posted overseas, but commented on all over the Islamic Republic. being compared unfavorably to Israel by their own citizens underscores why Iranian authorities are so wary of lifting the ban on social media.
I am actually not surprised by this because I am aware there are many decent Iranians who do not subscribe to their leaders’ hate-filled beliefs and desire to wipe Israel off the map.
Update: You need a Times subscription to view the entire article at the above link, but I have a scan of the article (hat tip: Melvyn)
