TLDR;
This video presents a rare historical document featuring a speech by Khomeini, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes events of the 1979 Iranian Revolution. It covers Khomeini's discussions with Kuwaiti sheikhs, his time in France, relationships with foreign governments, and the plan to overthrow the Shah. Khomeini discusses the factors leading to the revolution, emphasizing the role of the Iranian people and divine intervention. He also details the betrayals and destructive actions of the Shah's regime, particularly regarding the economy, army, and natural resources.
- Khomeini's interactions with foreign entities before the revolution.
- The critical role of the Iranian people and their faith in the revolution's success.
- The Shah's regime's alleged betrayals and destructive policies.
Introduction [0:00]
The video introduces a rare film featuring Khomeini discussing the events leading up to the 1979 Iranian Revolution. It highlights Khomeini's conversations with Kuwaitis, his relations with Americans and French, and his plans to overthrow the Shah. The video poses questions about whether the revolution was a popular uprising or a planned project, urging viewers to watch and share their opinions.
Meeting with Kuwaiti Delegation [1:56]
A delegation from Kuwait, including a university professor, politician, worker, employee, and journalist, arrives in Tehran to congratulate Khomeini on the victory of the Islamic Revolution. Khomeini expresses his gratitude for their visit and hopes that Allah will enable them to understand His will.
Exile and Pressure from the Shah [3:10]
Khomeini recounts the pressures he faced from the Iranian government and Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi while in Iraq. He describes how the Iraqi government, influenced by the Shah, restricted his activities, leading him to assert his religious duty and continue his sermons and announcements.
Journey to Kuwait and Syria [5:12]
Khomeini details his departure from Iraq due to increasing pressure on his comrades in Najaf. He traveled to Kuwait, but faced similar restrictions due to the Shah's influence. His initial plan was to go to Syria, but circumstances led him to Baghdad instead.
Decision to Go to France [7:20]
Khomeini explains his unexpected decision to go to France, driven by the realization that he would face similar pressures in other Islamic countries due to the Iranian government's influence. In France, he gained significant media attention, clarifying the issues in Iran and countering the Shah's propaganda, which spent $100 million annually.
Factors Leading to the Revolution [9:48]
Khomeini attributes the success of the revolution to the power of faith and unity among the Iranian people. He notes that factors leading to the revolution had been developing over the past year and a half, starting from Iraq and continuing in France. He emphasizes the role of the poor class, who bravely protested in the streets despite facing machine guns.
Divine Intervention and the Islamic State [11:59]
Khomeini expresses his belief that the revolution was a divine issue, not merely a human endeavor. He highlights the widespread support for an Islamic state, with people from all walks of life demanding independence, freedom, and an end to the monarchy.
The Role of the People and God's Power [14:04]
Khomeini insists that the victory was achieved by the "barefoot people" who sacrificed their lives and blood in the streets. He acknowledges the spirit of cooperation, humanity, and Islam that flourished within the Iranian nation. He marvels at the transformation that occurred, where ordinary people defied the Shah's regime and security forces.
Overthrowing the Monarchy [16:40]
Khomeini emphasizes that the revolution, powered by faith, uprooted a 2,500-year-old monarchy despite the support it received from global superpowers like America, the Soviet Union, China, and England. He notes that the nation was bare-handed but armed with the power of God.
Resisting Compromises and Returning to Iran [18:54]
Khomeini recounts how the Shah attempted to appease him by offering to surrender the country while remaining the Shah. He ignored these offers, trusting in divine power. Even after the Shah left, efforts were made through the French Republic and the United States to delay his return, but he refused and announced his intention to go back to Iran.
Appointing a Prime Minister and Subsequent Intimidation [21:08]
Upon entering Iran, Khomeini appointed his own prime minister, which the existing government initially dismissed as a joke. However, when they threatened to arrest the new prime minister, Khomeini and his supporters took the matter seriously.
Accusations Against Shapur Bakhtiar [22:57]
Khomeini accuses Shapur Bakhtiar, the last Prime Minister under the Shah, of committing crimes and ordering killings. He calls on the Iranian nation and international community to hand over Bakhtiar, wherever he may be found, emphasizing that even with the support of superpowers, Bakhtiar is now a pariah.
Looting and Economic Destruction [25:39]
Khomeini claims that the Shah's regime looted the country, leaving it in disarray. He criticizes the oil-for-weapons deals, arguing that the weapons were primarily for American interests and the establishment of bases against the Soviet Union. He details how the regime betrayed the nation by destroying the economy, nationalizing pastures and forests, and making the country dependent on imports.
Call for Awareness and Remembrance [29:39]
Khomeini hopes that those aware of the regime's crimes and betrayals will write and share their knowledge so that the world understands the afflictions suffered by the Iranian people. He expresses gratitude that their hands and the hands of their master have been cut short, and hopes for a complete end to their influence.
Conclusion and Reflection [30:06]
The video concludes by posing questions about the forces behind the revolution and the potential future of Iran had the revolution not occurred. Viewers are encouraged to share their opinions and subscribe for more content.