In the past, most wars were motivated by the idea of nationhood. Today, however, wars are incited above all using religion as an excuse.

I worked with a group of people who argued day and night - professors, officials, the Minister of Finance - but there were decisions that I had to make.

You're as young as your dreams, not as old as your calendar

I am leaving the office but am not leaving the battle for peace.

I read when I get up in the morning, when I can during the day and every single evening. Most of my weekends are spent reading great books. Books are my constant companions. If you eat three times a day you'll be fed. But if you read three times a day you'll be wise.

Polls are like perfume-nice to smell, dangerous to swallow.

I call on the Iranian people: it is not too late to replace the corrupt regime and return to your glorious Persian heritage, a heritage of culture and values and not of bombs and missiles... How can a nation allow a regime to instill fear, take away the people's freedom and shock the young generation that seeks its way out of the dictatorial Iran.