Enemies of the Ayatollahs: The Iranian Opposition and Its War on Islamic Fundamentalism

Enemies of the Ayatollahs: The Iranian Opposition and Its War on Islamic Fundamentalism

by N/A

Synopsis

What happens in post-war Iraq may well be decided by what happens in Iran. In this powerful account of its theocratic regime, the author pays particular attention to the Iranian factor in the 2003 Iraq war, and the likely impact of the continuation of the mullahs' regime and its tendency to interfere in its neighbour's affairs. He reveals startling new information about Iran's continued links with fundamentalist Islamic organizations abroad, the pursuit of its nuclear ambitions, and its ongoing use of terrorism against its own opponents - all of which justify a high level of international concern. The author argues that, in contrast to the ruling regime, the main Iranian opposition is essentially democratic, nationalist and in favour of a separation of religion and state. He raises fundamental questions about Islamic fundamentalism, and sets out a liberating, compassionate, tolerant and democratic version of Islam which can hold out hope for the Middle East as a whole.

$22.31

Save:$1.02 (4%)

Quantity

1 in stock

More Information

Format: Paperback
Pages: 288
Publisher: Zed Books Ltd
Published: 01 Feb 2004

ISBN 10: 1842775316
ISBN 13: 9781842775318

Media Reviews
'Enemies of the Ayatollahs makes a valuable and timely contribution. His well-researched work helps us grasp what is happening inside Iran today and how these developments are affecting and being affected by the developing situation in Iraq. It also helps us learn more about Iran's main opposition movement, the People's Mojahedin.' James Akins, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia 'I find this book a timely addition to the critical debate over Iran, Iraq, and the path that lies ahead of that region of the world. The book is a powerful expose of the undercurrent of events in Iraq and Iran. It argues in clear terms against the appeasement of the clerical regime in Iran.' Raymond Tanter, Professor Emeritus, University of Michigan and former staff member of the National Security Council 'This is an objective and well-documented study of the clash of Islams in Iran, the long-standing struggle between the millions who see Islam as a religion of mercy and tolerance and a clerical clique presenting it as the foe of democratic, secular values. It provides a unique insight into an issue with implications that go far beyond Iran's domestic politics and will play a dominant role in shaping the future of post-conflict Iraq.' Lord Corbett of Castle Vale, Chairman of the Iran Freedom Committee 'Mohaddessin's book is a timely and much-needed contribution to the crucial debate on Islamic fundamentalism.' Win Griffiths, Member of Parliament, former British cabinet member 'An insightful history of the rise of Islamic fundamentalism in Iran and the frontline opponents who have fought it?. The book explains the two decades long confrontation between Iran's ruling clerics and their main opponents, the Mojahedin Khalq or People's Mojadedin (PMOI).' Donna M. Hughes, Professor, University of Rhode Island 'Enemies of the Ayatollahs, above all, is of interest for its topicality and insight into the debates currently raging in Washington and Europe over what should be done about the Iranian problem.' - Asian Affairs
Author Bio
About the Author Mohammad Mohaddessin has been a life-long opponent of autocracy in Iran. The son of a prominent ayatollah in Qom, Mohaddessin was imprisoned under the Shah for his opposition to dictatorship and subsequently forced into exile by Ayatollah Khomeini. He is the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, which is the main umbrella group for the diverse movements opposed to the continuance of theocratic rule in Iran. Mohaddessin has written extensively on political and religious issues in Iran and throughout the region. In addition to many articles and essays, he has authored several books, including Democracy Betrayed, An Unethical Policy, Appeasing Tehran's Mullahs, and Legacy of a Misguided Policy. His most widely known work in North America is Islamic Fundamentalism: The New Global Threat (Seven Locks Press, Washington DC, 2001).