The Rest Is History 639. Revolution in Iran: Death in the Desert (Part 4)
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Jan 29, 2026 A tense retelling of America’s failed Desert One rescue and the chaos that followed. The rise and consolidation of Khomeini’s revolutionary regime is unpacked. Political fallout at home and the election-shaping hostage crisis are explored. Long-term consequences for Iran, regional war, and Khomeini’s global influence are highlighted.
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Beckwith’s White House Meeting
- Colonel Charlie Beckwith describes meeting Jimmy Carter before the rescue operation and being impressed by Carter's calm resolve.
- Beckwith recalled Carter saying if it fails the fault will be mine, and to bring back any bodies if possible.
Crisis Shapes Presidential Image
- The hostage crisis and the oil shock pushed the U.S. into recession and made Carter appear weak during the 1980 campaign.
- Tom Holland argues public perception of presidential performance can decisively shape electoral outcomes despite policy complexity.
Training On A Taped Embassy Layout
- Beckwith modelled Operation Eagle Claw on Israel's Entebbe raid and rehearsed an embassy layout at a U.S. training site.
- Delta Force practiced detailed room-by-room drills on a taped outline of the Tehran embassy at 'the farm'.