President Hassan Rouhani underscored the primary objectives of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which he believes are being undermined by conservative opponents strongly opposed to his plans to restore global economic links cut off by years of sanctions over Tehran's nuclear program.
"The revolution was aimed at promoting morality, national unity and brotherhood … Otherwise what is the point of being a revolutionary," Rouhani was quoted as saying by IRNA.
"You are a revolutionary when people feel safe from your actions and words," he said, in an address to a conference in Tehran to mark National Martyrs Day on Saturday. The revolution was the outcome of popular protests that led to the overthrow of the US-backed monarchical autocracy.
A nuclear accord was struck with major powers last year and took effect on Jan. 16 to place temporary curbs on Tehran's nuclear program in return for relief from sanctions.
Rouhani, who championed the deal, has been struggling to capitalize on the opening arising after the implementation day to revive the economy by absorbing foreign investment and technology, and ultimately deliver on his 2013 electoral pledge to promote national prosperity and social wellbeing.
Conservatives, on the other hand, seem determined to restrict engagement with overseas businesses, arguing that it would make the country vulnerable to corrupting western influence.
They have used their control over media to pressure the government and reinforce their anti-western agenda.
"Unfortunately, some newspapers are a bulletin of insults. I open them anxiously to see how they have insulted us again," the president said.
"Why are you always insulting and lying? ... Some do not like to see the greatness and wellbeing of the nation."
Rouhani criticized those who compromise national interests to advance their own factional interests.
"Why don't you work toward establishment of unity and brotherly relations in the society and instead only seek your personal and factional interests?"
