Iranian president on Friday called for the prosecution of opposition leaders over the post-election riots, claiming that senior activists currently on trial should not be the only ones punished.
"Serious confrontation has to be against the leaders and key elements, against those who organized and provoked (the riots) and carried out the enemy's plan. They have to be dealt with seriously," Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said, according to the AP.
The Iranian leader said prominent activists who are currently standing trial have to be treated with "Islamic mercy," portraying them as "deceived" into taking part in the unrest. "These deceived and second-hand elements have to be dealt with Islamic mercy. Don't give immunity and protection to the main elements and punish the deceived and second-hand elements," Ahmadinejad stated.
Ahmadinejad admitted for the first time that detained protesters were abused in custody but also denied any government involvement, claiming instead that it was the work of Iran's enemies and the opposition. "These actions that were carried out in custody ... were part of the enemy's scenario," he said. "Security, military and intelligence forces are free from these shameful acts."
