Word: massoud
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Dates: during 1970-1979
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Radical opposition to Khomeini's theocratic dictates is gathering force. In a potentially ominous turnabout, a leader of the Islamic nationalist mojahedeen guerrillas, who are still battling the Marxist Fedayan-e Khalq,* joined the leftists in their demands for a greater role in running the country. Mojahedeen Commander Massoud Rajavi demanded that all restrictions on the radicals' participation in the government be lifted. He voiced support for the "democratically elected" workers councils that are springing up in virtually every institution from businesses to the air force. Such groups have three times forced the resignation of officers appointed...
...avoid more bloodshed, the Ayatullah may have to make some concessions. Says Massoud Behnoud, a Tehran lawyer: "If Khomeini reaches some kind of compromise with the Bakhtiar government, he can bring the country peaceably to a referendum on a new constitution. He doesn't even have to fear chaos too greatly. He already has 90% of the people with him. If he now begins to share his absolute power and allow other groups to speak out more, we will be on our way to liberty. Khomeini's real power will be that of the religious leader of Iran...