He championed a "Neither East nor West" policy, rejecting the influence of both the United States (the "Great Satan") and the Soviet Union. 1979: The Year of Transformation
On , Khomeini returned to Iran to a triumphant welcome from millions. Within months, a national referendum officially established the Islamic Republic of Iran , with Khomeini as its Supreme Leader for life. His decade in power was defined by massive upheaval: ayatollah khomeini
In the absence of the 12th Imam, the most qualified Islamic jurists have the divine right and duty to govern society. He championed a "Neither East nor West" policy,