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