12 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

International RelationsNEWS

Iran asserts resolve amid rising tensions with the United States

Iran marks revolution anniversary, vowing resilience against aggression and continuing regional dialogue.

Photo by Vitaly Gariev

Iran celebrated the 47th anniversary of its Islamic Revolution amid heightened tensions with the U.S. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians to demonstrate national power. President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran's commitment to dialogue for regional peace but affirmed it would not yield to excessive demands.

Celebrations occurred against a backdrop of internal protests and external pressures, including potential military action by the U.S. following stalled talks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington to discuss Iran with President Trump, who is considering increasing military presence in West Asia.

Key Facts

Iran celebrated the 47th anniversary of its Islamic Revolution.

President Masoud Pezeshkian stated Iran would not yield to aggression.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians to demonstrate national power.

Celebrations occurred amid heightened tensions with the U.S.

The U.S. and Iran held talks in Muscat on February 6, but there was no breakthrough.

President Trump is considering sending a second aircraft carrier to West Asia for potential military action against Iran.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper 2: International Relations - Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.

Connects to the UPSC syllabus through the study of international relations, foreign policy, and the impact of geopolitical events on global stability.

Potential question types include statement-based questions on the JCPOA, the role of Iran in the Middle East, and the impact of sanctions on Iran's economy.

Visual Insights

Key Locations in Iran-U.S. Tensions

This map highlights Iran and the West Asia region, focusing on areas relevant to the current tensions with the U.S.

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📍Iran📍Washington, D.C.📍West Asia

More Information

Background

The Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, dramatically reshaped the country's political landscape. This revolution replaced the U.S.-backed Pahlavi dynasty with an Islamic republic, fundamentally altering Iran's relationship with the West. The revolution was rooted in deep-seated grievances against the Shah's autocratic rule and socio-economic inequalities. The revolution led to the creation of a new constitution based on Islamic principles. Following the revolution, Iran faced significant challenges, including the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). This conflict, fueled by territorial disputes and ideological differences, had a profound impact on Iran's economy and society. The war also led to increased international isolation and sanctions. The concept of Velayat-e Faqih, or Guardianship of the Jurist, became central to Iran's political system, granting religious clerics significant authority. The relationship between Iran and the United States has been fraught with tension since the revolution. Key events such as the hostage crisis at the U.S. embassy in Tehran further strained relations. The U.S. has imposed various sanctions on Iran over the years, citing concerns about its nuclear program and support for regional proxies. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear deal, was an attempt to resolve these concerns through diplomacy. Iran's foreign policy is guided by a mix of revolutionary ideals and national interests. The country seeks to project its influence in the region, particularly in countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq. Iran's support for groups like Hezbollah and Hamas has been a source of contention with the U.S. and its allies. The concept of Shia Islam plays a significant role in shaping Iran's regional alliances and foreign policy objectives.

Latest Developments

In recent years, tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated due to several factors. The U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 and the reimposition of sanctions have significantly impacted Iran's economy. Iran has responded by gradually reducing its compliance with the nuclear deal. The assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in 2020 further heightened tensions. Efforts to revive the JCPOA have faced numerous obstacles. Negotiations have stalled due to disagreements over sanctions relief and guarantees that the U.S. will not withdraw from the deal again. The election of Ebrahim Raisi as Iran's president in 2021 has also complicated the situation. Raisi's hardline stance has made it more difficult to reach a compromise with the West. Iran's regional activities continue to be a source of concern for the U.S. and its allies. Iran's support for proxy groups in Yemen, Iraq, and Lebanon has fueled regional conflicts. The development of Iran's missile program is also viewed as a threat. The United States has been working to build a coalition of countries to counter Iran's influence in the region. This includes strengthening ties with countries like Saudi Arabia and Israel. The future of Iran-U.S. relations remains uncertain. While both sides have expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, significant obstacles remain. The potential for further escalation remains high, particularly in the context of regional conflicts. The role of other actors, such as Russia and China, will also be crucial in shaping the future of the region. The concept of multipolarity is becoming increasingly relevant in understanding the dynamics of the Middle East.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the key event highlighted in the news, and why is it important for understanding Iran's current stance?

The news highlights the 47th anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution. This event is crucial because it symbolizes Iran's resilience and commitment to its revolutionary ideals amidst internal protests and external pressures, particularly from the United States.

2. What are the key facts related to the recent tensions between Iran and the U.S. that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

Key facts include the anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution, President Pezeshkian's statement on not yielding to aggression, Supreme Leader Khamenei's call for national power demonstration, the backdrop of internal protests, and stalled talks with the U.S. The U.S. and Iran held talks in Muscat on February 6, 2026, but there was no breakthrough.

Exam Tip

Remember the key personalities involved, such as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Masoud Pezeshkian, and the date of the talks in Muscat.

3. How might the ongoing tensions between Iran and the U.S. impact regional peace and stability, and what is Iran's stated position on dialogue?

Heightened tensions could destabilize the region. Iran states its commitment to dialogue for regional peace but affirms it will not yield to excessive demands. This suggests a willingness to negotiate but also a firm stance against perceived aggression or unfair pressure.

4. What are the recent developments contributing to the current tensions between Iran and the U.S., as per the provided information?

Recent developments include the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018, the reimposition of sanctions, and Iran's reduced compliance with the nuclear deal. The assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in 2020 also contributed to heightened tensions.

5. What is the historical background to the current tensions between Iran and the US?

The Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, replaced the U.S.-backed Pahlavi dynasty with an Islamic republic. This fundamentally altered Iran's relationship with the West and created long-standing tensions.

6. Based on the news, what internal factors are influencing Iran's current political climate?

The news mentions internal protests and a state crackdown in Iran. These internal issues create a complex backdrop against which Iran's leaders are navigating external pressures and asserting national resolve.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): 1. The JCPOA was signed between Iran and the P5+1 countries (China, France, Germany, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States). 2. The JCPOA aimed to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. 3. All sanctions on Iran were permanently lifted after the signing of the JCPOA. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The JCPOA was indeed signed between Iran and the P5+1 countries. Statement 2 is CORRECT: The JCPOA aimed to limit Iran's nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: Not all sanctions were permanently lifted. Some sanctions remained in place, and the agreement included provisions for snapback sanctions if Iran violated the terms.

2. Which of the following principles is most closely associated with the political system of Iran?

A.Separation of Powers
B.Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist)
C.Secularism
D.Direct Democracy

Show Answer

Answer: B

Velayat-e Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist) is a central concept in Iran's political system, granting religious clerics significant authority in governance. This principle is enshrined in the Iranian constitution and is a defining feature of the Islamic Republic.

3. Consider the following statements regarding the Islamic Revolution in Iran: 1. The revolution took place in 1979. 2. Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini led the revolution. 3. The revolution resulted in the establishment of a secular republic. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Islamic Revolution in Iran occurred in 1979. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini was the leader of the revolution. Statement 3 is INCORRECT: The revolution led to the establishment of an Islamic Republic, not a secular republic.

4. In the context of Iran's foreign policy, which of the following statements best describes its relationship with Shia Islam?

A.Shia Islam is irrelevant to Iran's foreign policy decisions.
B.Iran actively promotes Shia Islam as a tool for regional influence.
C.Iran opposes all forms of sectarianism, including Shia Islam.
D.Iran only supports Shia groups that align with its political ideology.

Show Answer

Answer: B

Iran actively promotes Shia Islam as a tool for regional influence. While it may not support all Shia groups unconditionally, the promotion of Shia Islam is a key aspect of its foreign policy, particularly in countries with significant Shia populations.