Prayer at its peak time or the International Press?

It was a moment of immense anticipation, one that would be recorded in history as a defining event. The world’s eyes were fixed on a small, quiet village in France—Neauphle-le-Château. This unassuming location had become the epicentre of global attention, as it was the temporary residence of Imam Khomeini, the exiled leader of Iran’s revolutionary movement. On that historic day, as news of the Shah’s departure spread like wildfire, a sense of expectancy filled the air.

The main street near Imam Khomeini’s residence was swiftly shut down by French police, overwhelmed by the sheer number of journalists, supporters, and onlookers who had gathered. Reporters from every corner of the world—Africa, Asia, Europe, and America—had arrived, their cameras set up and ready to capture history in the making. Over one hundred and fifty cameras were focused on a single man, broadcasting his every word live to millions across the globe. It was, without a doubt, the biggest news event of the year.

What would Imam Khomeini say? What decisions would he announce? What message would he deliver to a world waiting anxiously? The political landscape was shifting, and this moment was critical.

As the tension reached its peak, Imam Khomeini sat calmly on a chair beside the street, preparing to address the crowd. Every lens, every microphone, every eager journalist was directed at him. He began to speak, his words carrying the weight of an entire revolution. Standing beside him was his son and close companion, Ahmad Khomeini, who remained by his father’s side, observing every moment closely.

Then, suddenly, during this intense and highly anticipated address, Imam Khomeini paused. He turned to his son and asked in a gentle yet firm voice, “Ahmad, is it noon (time for prayer)?”

Ahmad glanced at his watch, quickly calculating the time. He nodded and confirmed, “Yes, it is.”

Without hesitation, without concern for the global audience awaiting his every word, Imam Khomeini uttered a brief yet profound farewell: “Peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you.”

And just like that, he turned and walked away.

The stunned crowd stood motionless, unable to grasp what had just occurred. Journalists from the world’s most influential media outlets—CNN, BBC, Associated Press, United Press, Reuters—watched in disbelief as the man at the centre of world news left, mid-conference, for something far more important.