Fact Check: "Trump claims Iran has been chanting 'Death to America' for 40 years."
What We Know
The slogan "Death to America" has been a significant part of Iranian political rhetoric since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. It was popularized by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the first Supreme Leader of Iran, and has been used in various protests and official events ever since (Wikipedia). The chant is often associated with anti-American sentiment, particularly in response to U.S. foreign policies perceived as hostile to Iran.
Historically, the chant was first heard prominently during the U.S. Embassy takeover in Tehran on November 4, 1979, and has been a recurring theme in Iranian public life, including at Friday prayers and national commemorations (Wikipedia). Recent reports confirm that the chant is still actively used in Iran, with demonstrations regularly featuring the slogan (AP News).
Analysis
Donald Trump's claim that Iran has been chanting "Death to America" for 40 years aligns with historical records. The slogan has indeed been a fixture of Iranian political discourse since the late 1970s, particularly following the Islamic Revolution. The phrase "Marg bar Âmrikâ" (Death to America) has been used in various contexts, often as a response to U.S. actions in the region (Wikipedia).
Reports from multiple sources indicate that the chant continues to be a part of Iranian protests and official gatherings. For instance, during the 40th anniversary of the U.S. Embassy seizure in 2019, thousands of Iranians chanted "Death to America" (Reuters). Furthermore, the Associated Press noted that the chant remains a staple at hard-line demonstrations and official ceremonies (AP News).
While the slogan is often interpreted as a rejection of U.S. policies rather than a literal call for violence against American people, it nonetheless reflects deep-seated animosity towards U.S. actions in the region (Wikipedia). This nuance is critical in understanding the context of the chant and its implications.
Conclusion
The claim that Iran has been chanting "Death to America" for 40 years is True. The slogan has been a consistent part of Iranian political expression since the late 1970s and continues to be used in various public demonstrations and official statements. The historical context and ongoing usage of the phrase support Trump's assertion.
