Full Breakdown
Iranian Activist Critiques Kamala Harris Over Response to Bombings
3/6/2026, 9:07:36 AM
Context of the Criticism
Mersedeh Shahinkar, an Iranian activist who lost her eye during the 2022 "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests, has publicly criticized former Vice President Kamala Harris for her response to recent bombings in Iran. Shahinkar's remarks come in the wake of a deadly U.S.-Israeli strike that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous high-ranking officials. In her statement, Harris described the attack as “a war the American people do not want,” expressing her opposition to regime-change wars.
Shahinkar's Perspective
Shahinkar, now residing in California, expressed her discontent with Harris's stance, questioning the lack of support from U.S. leaders for the Iranian people amid ongoing violence. She highlighted the mass protests in Iran, where over 30,000 individuals were reportedly killed in early 2026 during demonstrations called by exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi. Shahinkar criticized Harris and other Democratic leaders for not responding to appeals from the Iranian diaspora, who sought solidarity and support for those suffering under the Iranian regime.
Criticism of Western Anti-War Messaging
In her interview, Shahinkar addressed the broader anti-war sentiment prevalent in the West, stating, “Yes, ‘No War’ is a good slogan. No one loves war in the world.” However, she emphasized that peaceful protests in Iran have consistently been met with severe repression and violence. Shahinkar warned of the dangers posed by a heavily armed Iranian regime, questioning what would happen if such a government were to acquire nuclear weapons or long-range missiles. She pointed out the regime's hostile rhetoric towards other nations, stating, “These are countries to which the regime constantly sends chants of death.”
Official Statements & Responses
Shahinkar's comments reflect a growing frustration among Iranian activists regarding the perceived indifference of U.S. leaders to the plight of the Iranian people. She urged for more vocal support from figures like Harris, Biden, and Obama, lamenting that their silence undermines the struggles of those fighting for freedom in Iran. Shahinkar stated, “They did not even say a word of sympathy to maintain their mask of humanity,” calling for greater acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by protesters.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Where were you when we were shot in our eyes and faces?” — Mersedeh Shahinkar, Iranian Activist
- “Every time we used democratic methods, the result was only stronger repression, severe slaughter, and more executions,” — Mersedeh Shahinkar, Iranian Activist
- “Imagine a regime that kills tens of thousands of its own people in a matter of days,” — Mersedeh Shahinkar, Iranian Activist
Conclusion
Shahinkar's critique of Kamala Harris underscores a significant disconnect between Western political rhetoric and the realities faced by activists in Iran. As the Iranian diaspora continues to seek international support, the call for solidarity and acknowledgment of their struggles remains urgent.
