Article 24 of the Iranian constitution reads: "Publications and the press have freedom of expression except when it is detrimental to the fundamental principles of Islam or the rights of the public." The theocratic Iranian regime takes advantage of both final clauses to impose tyranny on the people. In the government's view, both dissent and reform are "detrimental to the fundamental principles of Islam" and thus they act within the bounds of the constitution when arresting journalists. A seemingly laudable call for freedom of expression is in reality utilized to quash freedom of expression. The nature of this ambiguous article is regularly exploited to censor media throughout Iran. As a result, many Iranian journalists have taken refuge in the Internet, often using pseudonyms to protect their security. But even this is not a fool-proof plan. Article 27 of the Iranian constitution stipulates that “Public gatherings and marches may be freely held, provided arms are not carried and that they are not detrimental to the fundamental principles of Islam.” Here, too, a benign sounding law is used to quash the right to protest. Loose interpretations of the phrase "detrimental to the fundamental principles of Islam" are regularly used by the regime to disperse and harass even peaceful protests.Oppression is a bed-rock of the modern Iranian constitution. Reforming it must be a key priority for all who care about the Iranian people's future.