In the Name of God
Greetings and Blessings,
On this anniversary of my unconditional release from the clutches of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ security agents (IRGC), I hereby express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all those who, during the 2010s (the 1390s SH), rose from across the globe in defense of truth, justice, and human rights. I thank everyone who defended my innocence against the IRGC Intelligence Organization and joined this rightful struggle.
I extend my thanks to:
- All noble and free-thinking individuals, both within the country and abroad,
- My family (at home and overseas),
- International human rights circles,
- Amnesty International,
- US Commission on International Religious Freedom,
- Human rights activists across the world,
- The Secretaries-General of the United Nations (Mr. Ban Ki-moon and Mr. António Guterres),
- My esteemed lawyers throughout this period (11 individuals),
- All journalists and news agencies who reported on this struggle and exposed the injustices regarding my case.
- A special note of gratitude goes to Branch 33 of the Supreme Court, presided over by Judge Mohammad Niazi and two respected advisors, for rejecting all charges in 2015 (1394 SH) and 2017 (1396 SH). The rulings issued by this branch shall forever stand as the clearest evidence of my innocence and the defense of my rights.
- I also extend my gratitude for many other righteous efforts which, for the sake of brevity, I cannot recount here.
Furthermore, I express my heartfelt and sincere appreciation to everyone who sent greetings and demonstrated their graciousness on the anniversary of my freedom. I offer my apologies for being unable to respond to each of you individually; please be assured that my humble prayers accompany you all.
Commemorating International Mother Earth Day
I also take this opportunity to honor International Mother Earth Day. We observe this day as a global call for reconciliation with the planet that is our home.
Let us review the diverse aspects of this occasion:
History and designation
Although the Earth Day movement originated in the United States in 1970, the title “International Mother Earth Day” was officially adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2009.
Why “Mother Earth”?
The use of the word “Mother” to describe the Earth is prevalent across many cultures and nations. This term signifies the profound interdependence between humanity, other living species, and the planet that we all inhabit.
The primary objective of this day
The aim is to remind ourselves that the Earth and its ecosystems are our home; to achieve a vital balance among the economic, social, and environmental needs of both present and future generations, the promotion of harmony with nature is essential.
Core areas of focus typically include:
- Climate change: Combatting global warming.
- Biodiversity: Preventing the extinction of species.
- Pollution: Reducing the use of plastics and chemicals, and addressing the pollution of air and water resulting from wars.
- Degradation: Addressing the environmental devastation, ruin, and soil erosion caused by wars.
Why does this occasion hold such significance?
We live in an era where the Earth is confronted by monumental challenges. The United Nations maintains that:
- We require a greener economy, one that serves both humanity and the planet.
- Zoonotic diseases (such as COVID-19) have demonstrated that when the health of an ecosystem is compromised, human health is equally at risk.
- The restoration of damaged ecosystems aids in the alleviation of poverty and the global struggle against climate change.
What measures can be taken?
Every individual can contribute a meaningful share to this global movement:
- Planting trees: One of the most symbolic activities associated with this day.
- Reducing plastic consumption: Utilizing reusable bags and permanent bottles.
- Education: Expanding one’s knowledge of environmental issues and sharing that insight with others.
- Energy conservation: Conserving water and turning off unnecessary lights.
In summary
International Mother Earth Day serves as a reminder that the Earth does not need us; rather, we are the ones who require a healthy Earth for our survival.
In closing
In light of the failure of foreign interventions against Iran, it is my hope that our Motherland does not become a target for retaliatory attacks. May it be spared further destruction and ruin, and may the Iranian nation be protected from further losses and hardships.
Mohammad Ali Taheri
Founder of the Erfan Keyhani Halgheh School & the Taheri Peace Organization
Toronto: April 23, 2026 (Ordibehesht 3, 1405 SH)
