Witness History Exiled Ayatollah Khomeini returns to Iran
Jan 19, 2026
Mohsen Sazegara, an Iranian political activist and former aide to Ayatollah Khomeini, shares his firsthand experiences during Khomeini's 1979 return to Iran. He vividly recalls the electrifying atmosphere as millions lined the streets for the Ayatollah's arrival. Sazegara discusses his concerns before the flight from Paris and the tense yet hopeful moments of landing in Tehran. He also reflects on the rapid organizational changes in the aftermath, describing how protests transformed into a new political power amidst chaos and excitement.
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Triumphant Return To Tehran
- Mohsen Sazegara recounts Ayatollah Khomeini's emotional return to Tehran after exile, describing the anxious flight and tense landing.
- He remembers millions lining a 20-mile route and his own tears at the sight of the crowds.
Moments On The Flight And Airport Chaos
- Mohsen describes staying awake on the flight and Khomeini worrying about passports, showing the leader's human side.
- He also tells of vehicles abandoned and the Ayatollah being helicoptered to the cemetery amid overwhelming crowds.
A Father's Unexpected Approval
- Mohsen recalls his father's rare embrace and congratulations when Mohsen returned home, showing personal family reconciliation.
- His father admitted surprise that they had succeeded in forcing the Shah out of the country.