Russian Iranologist: Ayatollah Khamenei led Iran through a defining historical phase

Pars Today – Russian Orientalist and Iranologist Elena Donayeva described Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, as a pragmatic leader who guided Iran through a decisive and sensitive stage in the country’s struggle for independence.

According to Pars Today, Donayeva, a senior expert at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, said in an interview with IRNA that during his 37 years of leadership, the martyred leader continued the path of Imam Khomeini (RA) and defended the achievements of the Islamic Revolution. She noted that he assumed leadership after the Iran–Iraq War and the passing of Imam Khomeini during a particularly difficult period.

She added that at that time, rebuilding the economy and developing Iran’s social, economic, and cultural capacities under new conditions was essential to achieving the core goals of the Islamic Revolution. According to her, the late leader’s measured decisions contributed to Iran’s progress in social and economic development.

Donayeva also pointed to Iran’s foreign policy, saying the late leader remained committed to national interests while also demonstrating an ability to negotiate and reach agreements. She added that during periods when Western sanctions complicated Iran’s economic situation, he introduced the concept of a “resistance economy” and outlined key development pathways for the country.

Referring to Iran’s military development under his leadership, she said the country’s armed forces reached their current level of capability during his tenure.

She noted that the Iranian people demonstrated that the loss of their leader and some officials did not weaken the country; rather, it strengthened national unity and the determination to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity. She also highlighted his positive approach toward developing relations with Russia, saying he had shown that cooperation between the two countries could be mutually beneficial.