With Trump in office, Iranians mark 1979 Islamic Revolution anniversary

Sub : IR

Sec: Places in news

Context:

Tens of thousands of Iranians participated in the annual commemoration of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, marking the overthrow of the American-backed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and the establishment of Iran’s Shiite theocracy.
This year’s celebration took place amid growing uncertainty due to the renewed “maximum pressure” campaign by U.S. President Donald Trump targeting Iran, particularly its economy and nuclear program.

Current situation of Iranian Economy:

Iran is experiencing severe economic challenges, primarily due to crippling sanctions that have significantly impacted its economy.
The Iranian currency, the rial, reached a record low of 928,500 rials to $1 in aftermarket trading, a 6% drop from the previous week.
These economic struggles are compounded by the looming threat of additional U.S. sanctions under President Trump’s administration.

Revolution Background:

The Iranian Islamic Revolution, also known as the 1979 Revolution, led to the overthrow of the Pahlavi monarchy and the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
It marked the end of the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was backed by the United States and other Western nations.
The revolution was driven by widespread discontent with the Shah’s regime, which was seen as oppressive, corrupt, and heavily influenced by foreign powers. The Shah, who was suffering from terminal cancer, fled Iran in January 1979.
Ayatollah Khomeini, who had been exiled for opposing the Shah, became the figurehead of the revolution. As the Shah’s regime weakened, Khomeini returned to Iran in February 1979, greeted by millions of supporters.
In April 1979, Iranians voted to establish the Islamic Republic, a Shiite theocracy with Khomeini as the first Supreme Leader.

U.S. Embassy Hostage Crisis:

The S. Embassy in Tehran was seized by militant students in November 1979 after the U.S. allowed the Shah to enter for cancer treatment.
This led to the 444-day hostage crisis, worsening relations between Iran and the United States and intensifying long-lasting enmity.