“Rushdie is not only a literary giant, but has always fought for the universal value of literature
free expression
, of faith and of the press – continues the note from the Secretary of State -. As law enforcement continues their investigations, we must not forget that there are dangerous forces trying to undermine these rights, including through the
incitement to hatred and violence
“.
Above all, this reference to “Iranian institutions” shaped Blinken’s words, who was the only one in the administration to explicitly mention the country. That wasn’t enough to spare him
criticism of the Republicans
who accused him of not interrupting the nuclear negotiations.
“The United States and its partners will not waver in their resolve to a
resist these threats
, using any suitable tool at our disposal. Rushdie’s strength, and that of all people around the world who have endured such threats, reinforces our resolve and underscores the
definitely stick together
as an international community against those who seek to challenge these universal rights,” Blinken concluded.