Pressed on one side by reformist critics who believe the supreme leader should be democratically accountable, and the right wing, which is comfortable governing without popular mandate, Khamenei must arbitrate delicately between the competing establishment factions. That explains why, in a speech in which he gave a virtual green light to the press coup, Khamenei also warned the right wing against the use of illegal violence. And abiding by the rule of law, hard-liners attacked the press legally rather than sending in the volunteer militia. In a symbolic and rare meeting with reformist leaders, Khamenei condemned political strains that had equated his anti-press rhetoric with opposition to Khatami. In the editorial offices of the frozen liberal press, journalists last week offered their editors condolences rather than copy.
Besieged newspapers are natural to a reform movement under fire.
But if a liberal parliament convenes later this month, Khatami will be expected to protect the press he helped create. Whether he can deliver may become the newest question facing his maturing movement. Lots of companies need workers.