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

• 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