40 Years of Iranian Revolution: Rare Photos of Khomeini's Return From Exile

February 1, 2019, marks the 40th anniversary of Khomeini's arrival in Iran, setting the stage for the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution that changed the country’s history for decades to come. Take a look at the historic pictures of Ayatollah Khomeini's return from exile.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Iran's exiled religious leader, arrives at Mehrabad airport in Tehran, Iran on February 01, 1979. (Image: AP)

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini is greeted by supporters in Tehran, Iran. (Image: AP)

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini inside the chartered aeroplane, this picture was taken few minutes before the plane took off from Paris, France. (Image: AP)

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini escorted to his car amid heavy security as he leaves the airport in Tehran, Iran. (Image: AP)

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini waves to followers as he appears on the balcony of his headquarters in Tehran, Iran. (Image: AP)

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini leaves the Tehran airport in Tehran, Iran. (Image: AP)

Supporters at the Shayad, a landmark memorial to the Shah, near the airport in Tehran, Iran. (Image: AP)