The Big Picture:
Forty-six years ago, on February 1, 1979, Imam Khomeini, the revered founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, returned to his homeland after fourteen years of exile. He was welcomed enthusiastically by the Iranian people.
Just ten days after his arrival, on February 11, 1979, the glorious Islamic Revolution of Iran triumphed. This revolution dramatically transformed Iran's political landscape, establishing a more conservative social order and leading to a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy.
What He Is Saying:
In an Exclusive interview with an Iran Press in Banjul, Hassoum Ceesay said: "This is the 46th year of Iran's Islamic Revolution which overthrew the Pahlavi regime which was very close to the West because of its oil interest for the US. But what the Iranian Revolution did under the leadership of Ayatollah Khomeini Late Founder of the Islamic Revolution was cut off the long-standing ties that Pahlavi had with the West. That was, if you like, year one in modern-day Iranian history was concerned.
Key Points:
- Pre-revolution Iran It describes Iran under the Shah as being closely aligned with the West, particularly concerning oil interests.
- Impact of the revolution: The revolution, led by Khomeini, severed Iran's ties with the West (commercial, social, economic, and cultural).
- Iran-Iraq War: The revolution was followed by the eight-year Iran-Iraq War, which caused significant casualties. The article mentions Gambia's role in attempting to mediate peace during this war.
Go Deeper:
Islamic Revolution in Iran Has Changed World Order: Senior Lecturer
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