How America and Iran became bitter foes: A timeline since 1953
Summary
The article outlines the historical timeline of the deteriorating relationship between the United States and Iran from 1953 onwards, highlighting key events including coups, wars, nuclear agreements, and sanctions that shaped their hostility.
Key Points
- The 1953 CIA and MI6-backed coup overthrew Iran's Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh, restoring Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and sowing long-term anti-American resentment.
- The 1979 Islamic Revolution ended the US-backed monarchy and led to the hostage crisis after the seizure of the US Embassy in Tehran.
- The US and Iran have engaged in multiple military confrontations, including the Iran-Iraq War and the shootdown of Iran Air Flight 655.
- The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was a key nuclear deal limiting Iran's program in exchange for sanctions relief, which the US withdrew from in 2018.
- Tensions escalated in recent years with US designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, drone incidents, and the killing of IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani.
