7.2 The Islamic Republic of Iran and its impact

The Islamic Republic of Iran, established after the 1979 revolution, reshaped the country's governance and foreign policy. Based on Ayatollah Khomeini's concept of Velayat-e Faqih, Iran blended theocracy with republican institutions, creating a unique political system.

Iran faced domestic challenges, including the rise of the powerful Revolutionary Guard and popular unrest like the Green Movement. Internationally, Iran engaged in conflicts, developed a controversial nuclear program, and faced sanctions, profoundly impacting its economy and global standing.

Governance and Ideology

Velayat-e Faqih and Islamic Constitution

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• Velayat-e Faqih establishes rule by Islamic jurists in Iran
• Ayatollah Khomeini developed this concept as the foundation of Iran's political system
• Islamic Constitution of 1979 codifies Velayat-e Faqih into law
• Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority in Iran's government structure
• Constitution blends elements of theocracy with republican institutions
• Includes elected parliament (Majles) and president, but under clerical oversight
• Guardian Council vets candidates and legislation for compliance with Islamic principles

Theocratic Elements and Anti-American Stance

• Theocracy manifests through integration of religious law into state governance
• Sharia law forms basis of legal system and social policies
• Clerical bodies like Assembly of Experts wield significant power
• Anti-Americanism becomes central tenet of revolutionary ideology
• Stems from U.S. support for Shah and 1953 coup against Mossadegh
• "Great Satan" rhetoric portrays U.S. as primary adversary of Islamic Republic
• Anti-American policies include embassy hostage crisis and support for anti-U.S. groups

Domestic Challenges

Revolutionary Guard and Internal Security

• Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) established to protect the revolution
• IRGC evolves into powerful military, economic, and political force
• Operates parallel to regular armed forces with own air and naval divisions
• Oversees internal security through Basij militia
• Expands influence into Iran's economy, controlling significant sectors (oil, construction)
• Accused of suppressing dissent and maintaining regime's grip on power
• Involved in foreign operations through Quds Force (Lebanon, Iraq, Syria)

Green Movement and Popular Unrest

• Green Movement emerges after disputed 2009 presidential election
• Protesters claim fraud in Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's re-election
• Millions demonstrate in Tehran and other cities, largest protests since 1979
• Movement adopts green as symbolic color, representing Islam and hope
• Government responds with violent crackdown, arrests opposition leaders
• Highlights ongoing tension between reformist and conservative factions
• Reveals deep-seated discontent among younger, urban Iranians

International Relations

Iran-Iraq War and Regional Conflicts

• Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) shapes Iran's foreign policy and military doctrine
• Saddam Hussein invades Iran, expecting quick victory after revolution
• War becomes longest conventional conflict of 20th century
• Iran uses human wave tactics, suffers massive casualties
• Develops ballistic missile program in response to Iraqi missile attacks
• War ends in stalemate, leaving both countries economically devastated
• Iran expands influence in post-war Iraq and supports groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon

Nuclear Program and International Sanctions

• Iran's nuclear program begins under Shah, continues after revolution
• Claims program is for peaceful purposes, but international community suspects weapons development
• IAEA finds Iran in non-compliance with Non-Proliferation Treaty in 2005
• UN Security Council imposes sanctions starting in 2006
• U.S. and EU implement additional sanctions targeting Iran's oil exports and banking sector
• Sanctions severely impact Iran's economy, leading to high inflation and unemployment
• 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) reached to limit Iran's nuclear activities
• U.S. withdraws from JCPOA in 2018, reimposes sanctions, increasing tensions