On the 30th Anniversary of the Revolution, Iranian Leaders Mull the Future

JIM LEHRER:

And finally tonight, two reports from Iran, during this week of its 30th anniversary of the Islamic revolution. Both are by Lindsey Hilsum of Independent Television News in Tehran.

The first, Iran's first response to President Obama's suggestion of a dialogue.

LINDSEY HILSUM:

Man of the people. President Ahmadinejad amongst the crowds at today's rally to mark the 30th anniversary of the revolution. He's trying to show the world that, far from being a dangerous fanatic in charge of a rogue state, he's a popular leader who has to be reckoned with.

The Basiji, the shock troops of the Islamic republic, landed by parachute. They at least provided some fun and excitement, but there's tension under the surface.

The moderate cleric, Mohammad Khatami, who's challenging the conservative Mr. Ahmadinejad for the presidency in June was attacked in the crowd by people shouting, "We don't want American government." The hardliners were out in force today.

Last night, President Obama said that, over the next few months, he would be seeking openings with face-to-face talks with Iran. "Down with America," they chanted. "Down with Israel."

After three decades of enmity, just talking would be a huge departure, but the president wasn't ruling it out.

MAHMOUD AHMADINEJAD, president, Iran (through translator): The new U.S. administration has announced it wants to make a change and start talking. It's quite clear a real change should be fundamental and not tactical. It's obvious that the Iranian nation welcomes real changes. Iran is ready to talk, but in a fair atmosphere of mutual respect.