Throughline Iran and the U.S., Part Two: Rules of Engagement
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Jun 28, 2025 Explore the tumultuous history between Iran and the U.S. from the fallout of the 1979 Iranian Revolution to today's high-stakes tensions. Discover the multifaceted Iran-Iraq War and the controversial U.S. involvement that escalated conflicts, including the tragic downing of a civilian airliner. Dive into key events like the Beirut barracks bombing and the evolution of military tactics, including Iran's proxy warfare and cyber operations. The Stuxnet cyber-attack marks a pivotal moment, illustrating how digital warfare is reshaping international relations.
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Beirut Barracks Bombing
- A truck bomb destroyed U.S. Marines barracks in Beirut in 1983, killing nearly 250 Marines.
- The attack was blamed on Islamic Jihad, considered a precursor to Hezbollah, acting as an Iranian proxy.
Hezbollah's Origin and Role
- Hezbollah emerged after the 1979 Iranian Revolution and 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, backed by Iran.
- It primarily represents the Shia sect and serves as a tool for Iran's regional influence.
US Hesitation Emboldened Iran
- The Reagan administration hesitated to blame Iran directly for the Beirut bombing to avoid war.
- Lack of retaliation emboldened Iran's use of suicide bombings as an effective tactic.
