The article delves into Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's background, shaping his anti-Western stance. His early exposure to secular intellectuals, coupled with his Islamic studies and influence from Sayyid Qutb, solidified his belief in an Islamic state and deep distrust of the US.
Khamenei views the US as seeking regime change in Iran, pointing to historical interventions as evidence. He highlights the 1953 coup and subsequent support for the Shah as key factors contributing to his perspective. The Iran hostage crisis and the Iran-Iraq War further intensified his distrust.
Khamenei's domestic policies aim to prevent a Soviet Union-style collapse through controlling potential insurgents, implementing controlled reforms, managing media narrative, and thwarting foreign interference. He also addresses concerns of dual sovereignty and the use of elections by foreign actors to weaken the Supreme Leader's power.
Khamenei acknowledges the West's advancements but criticizes its materialism and perceived hypocrisy. He believes liberal democracy leads to domination and imperialism and prefers a theocratic model. He sees Western capitalism as inherently flawed and destined for decline.
Khamenei's stance on US-Iran negotiations has evolved. Initially rejecting any negotiations, he later acknowledged the possibility of talks under specific preconditions: an end to regime-change attempts, mutual respect, and the removal of sanctions. He emphasizes Iran's right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and believes that the nuclear issue masks deeper US intentions.
Actions perceived as insults to Islam, such as Koran burnings, are seen by Khamenei as orchestrated by Western powers, particularly the US and Israel. He is keen to avoid portraying this as a conflict between Islam and Christianity.
The article concludes that improving US-Iran relations is difficult but not impossible. It suggests a roadmap for negotiations: the US must demonstrate a lack of intent for regime change, Iran must guarantee peaceful nuclear intentions, and both sides must address regional security concerns, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.