Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was the preeminent figure in Iran from the establishment of the Islamic Republic in April 1979 until his death in 1989. The Islamic Revolution significantly impacted global perceptions of Islam, sparking interest in Islamic politics and spirituality, but also generating fear and distrust towards Islam and particularly the Islamic Republic and its founder.^[106]

The revolution inspired Islamist movements and opposition to Western influence in the Muslim world. Notable events include the takeover of the Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia in 1979, the assassination of Egyptian President Sadat in 1981, the Muslim Brotherhood rebellion in Hama, Syria, and the 1983 bombings in Lebanon targeting American and French forces.^[107]

Between 1982 and 1983, Iran addressed the aftermath of the revolution, including economic, military, and governmental rebuilding. During this period, the regime suppressed uprisings by various groups who were once allies but had become political rivals. This led to the execution of many political opponents. Revolts in Khuzistan, Kurdistan, and Gonbad-e Qabus by Marxists and federalists resulted in intense conflict, with the Kurdish uprising being particularly prolonged and deadly.

The Iran hostage crisis, beginning in November 1979 with the seizure of the U.S. embassy in Tehran, significantly influenced the revolution. The crisis led to severed U.S.-Iran diplomatic relations, economic sanctions by the Carter administration, and a failed rescue attempt that bolstered Khomeini's stature in Iran. The hostages were eventually released in January 1981 following the Algiers Accords.^[108]

Internal disagreements about the future of Iran surfaced post-revolution. While some anticipated a democratic government, Khomeini opposed this notion, stating in March 1979, "do not use this term, ‘democratic.’ That is the Western style".^[109] Various political groups and parties, including the National Democratic Front, the provisional government, and the People's Mujahedin of Iran, faced bans, attacks, and purges.^[110]

In 1979, a new constitution was drafted, establishing Khomeini as the Supreme Leader with substantial powers and instituting a clerical Council of Guardians with oversight of legislation and elections. This constitution was ratified via a referendum in December 1979.^[111]