In 1953, the United Kingdom sought U.S. support to overthrow Iran’s democratically elected government led by Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh. The motive was not to defend democracy, but to protect British oil interests after Mossadegh nationalized the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. The resulting CIA/MI6-backed coup ended Iran’s brief experiment with democracy and reinstalled the Shah’s authoritarian regime.
Today, the situation is reversed: the United States is seeking the United Kingdom’s approval to use UK-controlled bases (like Diego Garcia) for possible military action against Iran. The UK’s legal and political consent is now a key requirement for any such operation.
The irony is clear and striking: in 1953, the UK enlisted U.S. help to topple a democracy in Iran for its own interests; now, the U.S. needs UK permission to act against Iran. This historical reversal highlights how the defense of democracy was never the true motive in 1953—adding a poignant layer to today’s diplomatic dynamics.
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