gazism

Gazism refers to a political and economic ideology that emerged in Iran, primarily associated with the leadership of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during his presidency from 2005 to 2013. It is characterized by a strong emphasis on social justice, anti-imperialism, and a redistribution of wealth, often framed within an Islamic context.

A core tenet of gazism is the idea of "jihad of necessity," which posits that the government has a duty to provide for the basic needs of all citizens, particularly the poor and marginalized. This manifested in policies aimed at reducing poverty, increasing state subsidies for essential goods and services, and expanding social welfare programs. Ahmadinejad's administration famously promoted the concept of distributing oil and gas revenues directly to the people, hence the term "gazism" deriving from "gas" (referring to petroleum and natural gas).

On the international stage, gazism espoused a staunchly anti-Western and anti-American stance, often critiquing global economic inequalities and perceived foreign interference. This ideology resonated with a segment of the Iranian population that felt neglected by previous economic policies and sought a more equitable distribution of the nation's resources. While proponents lauded its focus on the underprivileged and its challenge to established economic norms, critics often pointed to concerns about fiscal sustainability, increased government spending, and potential negative impacts on the private sector. The long-term economic and political consequences of gazist policies continue to be debated among analysts.