We have protests in Iran. When protests happen in countries the western media likes, its a show of democracy & free speech. When it happens in Iran, it's the downfall of the country and a proof of how oppressed the people are.
You can defend Turkey without making incorrect assumptions about Iran.
You claim that there is no media outside of state control in Iran. That's true when it comes to TV, but when it comes to newspapers, magazines, online news sources, etc, they are not under state control. Of course, this doesn't mean that the state can't control them (take away their license for example), but I think that's sort of true in most countries.
Regards to comparison of freedom of speech, I think it is very difficult to quantify. For example, I think in certain aspects, you guys might be more free. I bet your country can easily criticize Islam, but we can't. On the other hand, we can (this might surprise it) very freely criticize the President, but your country has less ability. In terms of other politicians, I don't know how it is regarding Turkey, but in Iran it is fair game. However, in our country, the Supreme Leader is a red line. Newspapers won't criticize him.
Some restrictions on freedom of speech I agree with. For example, if any show or comment or article is found offensive by any ethnicity or religion, it is dealt with. I don't care if people criticize us for this, I don't support unrestricted freedom of expression.
In regards to the political structure in Iran, I agree it is unique, but it is not undemocratic. The Supreme Leader is chosen by the Assembly of Experts, who's members are chosen directly by the people. This group has the right to fire the Leader also. Therefore if the people are not happy with the way candidates are filtered, then they can vote for others. By the way, the Leader isn't involved directly with choosing the candidates.
