What was the role of the US in the Iranian coup of 1953?

The US played a significant role in the Iranian coup of 1953, orchestrating it alongside the UK to overthrow Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh.

In the early 1950s, Iran was undergoing significant political changes under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh. Mossadegh had nationalised the Iranian oil industry, which had previously been controlled by British companies. This move was seen as a threat by the UK and the US, who feared a potential shift of power in the Middle East and the possible spread of communism.

The US, under the presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower, and the UK, under Prime Minister Winston Churchill, decided to take action. The CIA and the British intelligence service, MI6, orchestrated a covert operation known as Operation Ajax (TPAJAX Project) to overthrow Mossadegh. Kermit Roosevelt Jr., a CIA agent and grandson of former US President Theodore Roosevelt, was instrumental in this operation.

The operation involved a complex plot, including propaganda campaigns, bribes to government officials, and plans to incite public demonstrations. The aim was to create a climate of instability and fear, which would undermine Mossadegh's government and pave the way for the return of the Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who had fled the country.

On 19th August 1953, the coup was successful. Mossadegh was arrested and the Shah returned to power, implementing a pro-Western regime. The oil industry was denationalised, with significant control returned to foreign companies.

The US's role in the coup was not officially acknowledged until 2013, when the CIA declassified documents relating to Operation Ajax. The coup had significant long-term effects on US-Iran relations, contributing to the anti-American sentiment that fuelled the Iranian Revolution of 1979.

In conclusion, the US played a pivotal role in the Iranian coup of 1953, working in conjunction with the UK to orchestrate the overthrow of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh. This was driven by geopolitical concerns and economic interests in the Iranian oil industry. The coup had far-reaching consequences, shaping the political landscape of the Middle East and setting the stage for future conflicts.