This is a very disturbing story, both because of its content and because, in my opinion, it is presented without adequate collaborative support. It may be true; it may not be. If it's not, it's hate speech.
The impact of the story is huge. There are so many people here in America for whom this is all they need to justify virtually any action we may take towards Iran.
But where is the supportive evidence for what happened to Mr. Batebi? There is mention of the statements of an Iranian judge who admitted that there has been torture in Iranian prisons. But where is the direct support?
Please understand me. I do not really question the truth or untruth of Mr. Batebi's statements. There just isn't enough supportive evidence presented in the piece to justify it. And there are additional things which could have been done. Physicians expert in assessing the physical, psychological, and emotional effects of long term torture could have examined Mr. Batebi and then provide statements that he does display effects typical of those who have been tortured. Mr. Batebi could also have taken a lie detector test.
The problem with this kind of story is that the impact on the public is huge. It is not, in my opinion, responsible journalism to present the story without sufficient supportive material. Else we are left to rely on the support of the journalist's reputation. But if he knew more, why wouldn't he present it?
I repeat, the potential of this report to resonate with the hatred in America for those things symbolized by it and by what little we know of Iran is too great. Please take more care in the future. And I sincerely hope that this note comes to the attention of Anderson Cooper and the 60 Minutes Producer.
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