Yasser Arafat’s visit to Iran on February 18, 1979, marked a significant turn in Iran’s foreign policy, expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Imam Khomeini emphasized reliance on God and unity among Muslims, underscoring resistance against oppressors. This meeting catalyzed a strong bond between Iran and Palestinian movements and initiated the International Quds Day observance, symbolizing ongoing global support for Palestinians.
On February 18, 1979, Yasser Arafat, the chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), made a historic visit to Iran shortly after the Islamic Revolution. He was the first foreign leader to meet with Imam Khomeini, expressing his congratulations on the Revolution’s success. This event not only represented Palestinian support but also marked a pivotal moment in Iran’s foreign policy, emphasizing solidarity with oppressed Muslim nations.
The Islamic Revolution inspired great joy and hope among Palestinians, particularly in the occupied territories and Lebanon. As a demonstration of their support, Palestinian fighters celebrated by firing celebratory gunshots into the air. Arafat noted that the Iranian Revolution symbolized the unyielding spirit of Muslim communities, stating, “Your revolution was like an earthquake that sent shockwaves across the globe and trembled Israel and imperialism.”
Arafat’s visit was significant, as it underscored Iran’s shift away from the Pahlavi regime’s alliance with Israel. Under the Shah, Iran had maintained covert ties with Israel, even housing an unofficial Israeli embassy in Tehran. In stark contrast, following the Revolution, Iran severed all diplomatic relations with the Israeli regime, aligning itself with the Palestinian cause.
During the meeting with Imam Khomeini, Arafat received crucial guidance on the Palestinian struggle. Imam Khomeini emphasized that relying on foreign powers would not secure Palestinian victory; instead, he urged trust in God and adherence to Islamic teachings. He stated, “The Shah too pinned hope on the support from America… But their support was not too strong. Only support the God bestows is reliable.”
Imam Khomeini articulated that the Palestinian issue transcends borders and is a collective responsibility of the Islamic world. He called for unified support for Palestinians, asserting that resistance against the occupiers is an obligation that should be embraced by all Muslim nations, both politically and on the battlefield.
Years after this landmark meeting, Arafat faced challenges with the Arab leadership’s indifference regarding Palestinian rights. He eventually shifted strategies towards negotiations, leading to the Oslo Accord, which significantly impacted the Palestinian struggle. Despite this, Iran remained steadfast in its commitment to helping to build a Resistance front against the occupying forces.
With the initiative of Imam Khomeini, the last Friday of Ramadan is commemorated as International Quds Day, showcasing global solidarity with Palestinians. In contrast to previous Arab nationalist failures against Israel, the Resistance movement has emerged victorious in various confrontations. Today, Iran takes pride in its efforts to support a cohesive Resistance front globally, earning appreciation from many freedom-loving individuals.
Yasser Arafat’s visit to Iran shortly after the 1979 Islamic Revolution marked a significant turning point in Iran’s foreign policy toward Palestine. This event symbolized solidarity with the Palestinian cause and represented a shift from prior alliances with Israel. Imam Khomeini’s guidance highlighted the importance of resistance, faith, and unity among Muslim nations, elements that have continued to inspire the global Resistance movement today.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
