1979

1979 is a year marked by major events on the Gregorian calendar (the most widely used historical system globally). It is remembered for political developments that transformed relations among states in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and for turbulence in the global oil market.

Some of that year's events initiated conflicts that would continue for decades. Western states and those in the Middle East reassessed their relationships, while energy markets faced severe price volatility.

The Iranian Revolution

In February 1979, Iran's monarchy ended, and the Islamic Republic of Iran was established. Ruhollah Khomeini, returning from exile, became the supreme leader. In November, the U.S. embassy in Tehran was seized and its staff held for an extended period—a rupture that severed Iran-U.S. relations.

Afghanistan and the Soviet Union

In late 1979, Soviet forces entered Afghanistan to support the government then in power. This action triggered a prolonged conflict and intensified Cold War tensions between Moscow and Washington.

The Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty

In 1979, a peace treaty between Egypt and Israel was signed, resulting from the Camp David negotiations. Egypt became the first Arab state to formally recognize Israel, an act that led to its suspension from the Arab League for a period.

Other events

1979 also marks the year Margaret Thatcher became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and China and the United States established formal diplomatic relations. Oil prices rose sharply, affecting economies worldwide.