The Legacy of U.S.-Iran Relations

U.S.-Iran relations have been shaped by decades of ideological divisions, beginning with the U.S.-backed coup in 1953 that overthrew Iran's democratic government. The tension escalated in 1979 during the Islamic Revolution, which led to the Shah's ousting and the rise of the Ayatollah Khomeini. Iran quickly transitioned from an ally of the U.S. to a prominent adversary, exemplified by the takeover of the U.S. Embassy and the taking of hostages, marking a significant turning point in diplomatic relations. This antagonism has continued for over 40 years, resulting in severe political and military consequences for both nations.