Trump special envoy: We respect the governing philosophy of Iran

What happened: Tom Barrett, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey, said that Iran’s state is founded on Twelver Shiism and described that doctrine as a “religious government” (theocracy), and he criticized the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for acting as an adversary and a problem because of its hostile role toward Israel. Source and attribution: Barrett made the remarks in a speech reported by Jamaran. Key details preserved from the original: Barrett said people of Iran are “loved” and that the religious content and rituals of the ruling doctrine are something “we all respect.” He contrasted that with his claim that the IRGC has become an opponent and, due to its hostile actions toward Israel, “a problem.” Uncertainty and sourcing: The account is attributed to Barrett’s comments as reported by Jamaran; no additional verification is provided.