According to Iran Watch, the response from the office of the former head of the Mostazafan Foundation is as follows:
On March 8, 1403 (Persian calendar), Mr. Rafiq Doost participated in a video interview with the Iran Watch website, which lasted more than two hours. Throughout the interview, he discussed his extensive memories from his time in charge of various responsibilities, including his role during the victorious Islamic Revolution and his service alongside the late Imam. He also reflected on the Holy Defense period and his tenure as the head of the Mostazafan Foundation under the decree of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution.
However, towards the final minutes of the interview, the host posed a question regarding the memoirs of Anis Naghash. In response to someone else’s recollections, Mr. Rafiq Doost addressed issues that were subsequently manipulated and exploited by hostile foreign media as well as biased domestic outlets with specific political agendas. To clarify the situation and prevent further misinformation, his office has released the following key points:
- The question concerning Anis Naghash’s memory was introduced in an incomplete manner and was not thoroughly explored by the interviewer. As a result, Mr. Rafiq Doost’s response was also incomplete. Given this context, his statement in the final minutes of the interview should not be considered legally or historically definitive.
- Mr. Rafiq Doost has undergone extensive medical procedures, including brain surgery, in recent years. Due to the complications from these procedures, there is a possibility that he may have recalled certain memories or names incorrectly. Consequently, any statements made during the interview, especially towards its conclusion, should not be deemed legally binding or historically accurate.
- Certain biased media outlets within the country and counter-revolutionary platforms abroad have deliberately misrepresented his statements. By selectively editing the interview and removing crucial context, these media outlets have propagated false claims regarding Mr. Rafiq Doost and the Islamic Republic of Iran’s alleged involvement in certain assassinations. These claims are categorically false and firmly denied.