What Has Anti-Imperialism Gotten Iran?
An ideology of refusal has not made the international order fairer for Iranians or anyone else.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has not delivered for its citizens, instead burdening them with economic hardships, political repression, and international isolation. Compared to Iran's monarchy, the current regime has been significantly less successful. The shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was an anti-communist autocrat who maintained strong ties with the United States, showing a willingness to cooperate with both the U.S. and the Soviet Union as needed.
He is often considered a successful anti-imperialist for securing Iran's independence and sovereignty. However, the Islamic Republic, which overthrew Pahlavi in 1979, has failed to uphold the anti-imperialist ideals it proclaimed. Instead of prioritizing the economic welfare of its people, the regime has focused on fighting Western countries for both their imperialist policies and cultural influence, which has led to domestic repression and worsened Iran's standing in the international community.
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