Here it is less than a generation ago when the Iranian public rose up against its government and decided that it preferred a strict Islamic based governance over the secular government ruled by a “shah” monarchy. I guess Iran’s people did not think that they should be careful what they wish for. After the overthrow, the women, who enjoyed a measure of freedom not seen in other Islamic nations, were covered and sent home. The children, who received wonderful educational opportunities both in Iran and abroad, were denied access to anything remotely western. The economy immediately dropped into poverty after the rest of the world (who had any money to spend) didn’t support the overthrow.
It has taken some 20 years for the in-house fighting among the exclusionary, Shi’a, hard-line Islamic Council led government to spill into the mainstream. This, and shifts in values, the internet, and cell phones, has allowed the informal exchange and exposure to western culture. This has given younger Iranians the opportunity to see how we really are and has warmed the everyday Iranians up to the idea that we are not the evil one. These factors have made Iran ripe for revolution and the shift to a more secular government.
I believe, as others do, that the clerical council of rulership in Iran will end. The council lacks a charismatic leader like Khomeini, so the group’s loss of power is inevitable. The good news is that beneath this ruling clergy is a fully functioning republic form of government.
As much as I hate to admit it, I believe Obama is correct in that our government needs to step back and allow the future in Iran to unfold unmolested. Any formal involvement past what Obama has stated publicly will only distract and prolong the agony.
Based on what I’ve seen and read, the people of Iran are tired of the oppression, even if someone has told them it’s God’s will, and are ready to join the rest of the world. Let’s informally support them in their effort.