Published on: May 18, 2021
مقالات ذات صلة:
The Iranian Islamic Revolution: An Insider’s Perspective | The Memoirs of Ayatollah Hossein Montazeri
Ayatollah Hossein Montazeri was one of the key architects of the Iranian Islamic Revolution and a close confidant of Imam Khomeini. At one point, he was even designated as Khomeini’s successor. However, the documentary reveals how Montazeri transitioned from being the second most powerful man in the revolution to becoming one of its most outspoken critics. It delves into the hidden power struggles and ideological rifts that shaped Iran’s post-revolutionary governance, particularly in relation to the concept of Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist) and how it was implemented in practice.
Montazeri was not just a revolutionary figure but also a distinguished religious scholar and a key theorist behind Wilayat al-Faqih. Initially, he was seen as Khomeini’s rightful successor, but deep-seated disagreements gradually emerged between the two men despite their early close relationship.
Disputes Over Governance and the Iran-Iraq War
The first major rift between Montazeri and other revolutionary leaders stemmed from their diverging visions for Iran’s post-revolutionary state. While these tensions remained manageable in the early years, they escalated significantly during the 1980s, particularly over the continuation of the Iran-Iraq War. Montazeri strongly advocated for an end to the war, believing it was necessary to preserve the achievements of the revolution and prevent further bloodshed. However, other influential figures preferred prolonging the conflict, regardless of its devastating human and economic toll.
The Iran-Contra Affair: A Shocking Revelation
A major turning point in Montazeri’s disillusionment came with the Iran-Contra scandal—a covert arms deal during the Iran-Iraq War. Despite being the second-in-command at the time, Montazeri was unaware that American weapons (delivered via Israel) were secretly reaching Iran. When the details of the scandal came to light, he was furious, particularly at figures like Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, who had orchestrated the arms procurement in a bid to extend the war.
Montazeri’s Stand Against Political Executions
One of Montazeri’s most defining and courageous stances was his opposition to the mass executions of political prisoners and dissidents, particularly in 1988. While the ruling establishment justified these purges as necessary for the survival of the revolution, Montazeri condemned them as a betrayal of Islamic values and revolutionary ideals. His outspoken criticism of these executions led to an unprecedented deterioration in his relationship with Khomeini.
Ostracization and House Arrest
As a result of his dissent, Montazeri was stripped of his official status in 1989 and placed under house arrest. A state-led campaign was launched to tarnish his reputation—his portraits were removed from government offices, and his name was vilified in state-controlled media and religious institutions. The documentary highlights that Khomeini’s decision to sideline Montazeri was largely influenced by hardline advisors who misrepresented Montazeri’s stance, portraying him as a traitor to the revolution.
Despite these measures, Montazeri remained resolute. Even after Khomeini’s death, Montazeri continued to voice his concerns about the unchecked power under Wilayat al-Faqih, especially as Iran transitioned into the 1990s.
Re-Emergence as a Voice for Reform
With the election of reformist President Mohammad Khatami in the late 1990s, Montazeri regained a platform to critique the concentration of power in the hands of the Supreme Leader. His opposition led to another period of house arrest that lasted nearly five years. However, once restrictions were lifted, he continued to serve as a spiritual and intellectual guide for Iran’s reformist movement. His lectures in Qom became a rallying point for calls to reform the system and prevent authoritarian rule under the guise of religious governance.
Final Years and Lasting Legacy
The documentary captures Montazeri’s final years, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. Even after decades of political persecution, he remained an advocate for reforming Wilayat al-Faqih to ensure that it did not become a tool for absolute rule. His passing in 2009, shortly after the controversial re-election of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, was met with widespread public mourning—including among those who had once opposed him.
A Documentary Rooted in Montazeri’s Own Words
The film relies heavily on Montazeri’s personal memoirs, incorporating written excerpts, archival footage, and rare audio recordings. Additionally, it features commentary from Dr. Fatima Al-Samadi, a leading scholar on Iranian affairs and the Arabic translator of Montazeri’s memoirs. Through her insights, the documentary contextualizes the historical and political significance of Montazeri’s experiences, shedding light on a pivotal era in modern Iranian history.
Ultimately, The Iranian Islamic Revolution: An Insider’s Perspective presents an unfiltered view of the internal struggles that shaped the post-revolutionary Iranian state, making it an essential historical account of a period that continues to define Iran’s political landscape today.
