Nowruz visit of Seyyed Mohammad Khatami


The brutality of the crackdown sparked nationwide demonstrations and student protests in multiple cities. The government’s response was swift and severe. With the help of the Basij, the Revolutionary Guards, and the national police, the protests were violently suppressed. Many students were arrested and tortured, with figures like Ahmad Batebi becoming symbols of the movement after photos of him holding a blood-stained shirt were published internationally.

Though Khatami condemned the violence and promised accountability, many viewed his response as weak. The incident exposed the limits of presidential power within Iran’s political system and the autonomy of parallel institutions loyal to the Supreme Leader and the conservative establishment.

The Serial Murders: A State Within a State

Perhaps the most shocking revelation of Khatami’s presidency was the uncovering of the so-called “serial murders” of intellectuals and dissidents. Between 1980 and 1998, dozens of political activists, writers, and thinkers were assassinated under mysterious circumstances. The murders of Dariush and Parvaneh Forouhar, Mohammad Mokhtari, and Mohammad Jafar Pouyandeh in late 1998 shocked the nation.

Under intense public pressure, the Ministry of Intelligence eventually admitted that “rogue elements” within its ranks were responsible. The case led to the arrest of high-ranking intelligence officers, including Saeed Emami, a former deputy minister, who allegedly committed suicide in prison by ingesting hair remover—a claim many found suspicious.

The serial murders scandal was a watershed moment. It revealed the existence of deep-state networks that operated with impunity and highlighted the inability of elected officials, including the President, to control the security apparatus.

Press Freedom and the Assembly Showdown

Freedom of the press became another major battleground during Khatami’s presidency. The Sixth Majlis, dominated by reformists, introduced a bill to amend the Press Law in order to expand journalistic freedoms and protect independent publications. The bill had widespread support among reformist lawmakers and the public.