Salam (newspaper)

Salam was a reformist Persian-language newspaper published in Iran from 1989 to 1999. It was a prominent voice for liberal and reformist viewpoints during a period of significant political change in the country.

The newspaper was founded by Khoei family, a prominent religious family in Iran. Its managing director was Abbas Abdi, and its editor-in-chief was Mohammad Khoei. Salam quickly gained a large readership due to its critical coverage of government policies and its advocacy for greater political freedom and social justice. It provided a platform for diverse voices, including intellectuals, activists, and ordinary citizens.

Salam played a crucial role in the political debates that shaped Iran in the 1990s. It supported President Mohammad Khatami's reform agenda and advocated for greater transparency and accountability in government. The newspaper also covered issues such as human rights, women's rights, and freedom of the press.

In July 1999, Salam was shut down by the Iranian government for allegedly publishing a classified document related to a proposed new press law. This closure sparked widespread protests by students and others, which were violently suppressed by the authorities. The events surrounding the closure of Salam are considered a turning point in the reform movement in Iran. The suppression of the protests and the closure of the newspaper marked a significant setback for those advocating for greater political and social freedom in the country. The paper's legacy continues to be debated and remembered as a key moment in Iranian political history.