Empire 285. Suez Crisis: The Secret Meeting Between Israel, Britain & France (Part 2)
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Aug 27, 2025 
Alex Von Tunzelmann, a historian and author known for her insights into historical crises, joins the conversation to delve into the Suez Crisis of 1956. She discusses the secret collusion between France, Britain, and Israel against Egypt, revealing the complex motivations behind their actions. The podcast explores the intense rivalry between British Prime Minister Anthony Eden and Egyptian leader Gamal Abdel Nasser, while also connecting the Suez Crisis to the upheaval in Hungary. The conspiracy, military strategies, and fears of global conflict are intricately examined.
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Eden's Personal Obsession With Nasser
- Anthony Eden grew to loathe Nasser and even told a minister he wanted Nasser murdered.
- Eden's rhetoric and obsession suggested serious concerns about his state of mind.
Nationalisation After Dam Funding Collapse
- Nasser nationalised the Suez Canal Company after World Bank funding for the Aswan Dam was withdrawn.
- The nationalisation aimed to fund Egypt's development and assert Egyptian control over the canal.
Triumphant Mansheya Square Declaration
- Nasser announced nationalisation in front of a quarter million people at Mansheya Square with dramatic symbolism.
- A float showed a sphinx devouring a British soldier with a Union flag sewn on his backside.
