On Nov. 20, Manoto TV, a popular satellite network run by the Iranian diaspora in London and broadcast into Iran, announced that it would end its operations in January after its sponsor pulled support.
The cessation of Manoto’s operation is regrettable for those who wish to see a free Iran, but the network can take solace in that it has left a permanent and positive mark on the Iranian people. The U.S. government should be taking steps to fill the vacuum Manoto leaves behind by boosting the quality of Voice of America Persian (VOA). But some changes will be necessary if this is to happen.
In Iran, television remains the most popular medium. All television networks there are government-run, so, the vast majority of Iranians in cities and villages own satellite dishes at home to receive foreign broadcasting, even though it is illegal. The religious…
