The Islamic Republic's legacy reminds us of the dangers of unchecked power - opinion

• Published date: 02 April 2024
• Author: ERFAN FARD
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The aftermath of this election saw Ruhollah Khomeini's declaration of establishing God's government on Earth – a bold claim that, in retrospect, stands in sharp contrast to the decades of authoritarian rule, corruption, and international condemnation that would follow

The Islamic Republic, first under Khomeini and later Khamenei, has been characterized by its iron grip on power, widespread corruption, and a foreign policy aggressively promoting Islamic terrorism. This grim reality starkly contrasts with Khomeini's vision, revealing a governance model that is arguably among the most corrupt, bloodthirsty, and despised "divine" governments on Earth.

The regime's legacy over these 45 years is a narrative of disillusionment and betrayal. Theocratic rule replaced the promised democratic governance, with power concentrated in the hands of unelected clerics. Khomeini and Khamenei's tenures have not reflected the people's will but a deep-seated desire to maintain and consolidate power. The leadership has not only distanced itself from the populace through its actions but also through rhetoric, claiming divine sanction and infallibility, further alienating itself from the principles of accountability and representation.

The cost of the Islamic Republic's policies on society

The societal cost of this regime's policies has been staggering. Iran, with its rich cultural heritage and significant natural resources, remains ensnared in economic difficulties and political isolation. The regime's stubborn adherence to a hardline ideology has exacerbated these challenges, leaving the country increasingly isolated internationally. Moreover, the potential succession of Khamenei by his son signifies a continuation of dynastic rule, an ironic echo of the monarchy the Islamic Revolution sought to overthrow, further cementing the regime's disconnect from the revolutionary ideals of equality and justice it once claimed to champion.

Yet, amid this backdrop of repression and disillusionment, the Iranian spirit of resistance has not waned. The populace's repeated uprisings against the regime's tyranny underscore a relentless pursuit of a more inclusive, democratic, and just society. These movements, though brutally suppressed, illuminate the undying hope for change and the resilience of a people yearning for a future...