The coup we forgot that made Iran what it is - 5.4.2026

Before asking why Iran distrusts America, we should revisit what we did there.

In 1953, Central Intelligence Agency and MI6 helped overthrow Iran’s elected prime minister, Mohammad Mossadegh, after he nationalized the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. The coup restored Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, whose secret police, SAVAK, ruled through fear for decades.

That repression helped ignite the Iranian Revolution, ushering in the theocratic regime that still defines Iran’s politics and its hostility toward the United States.

History does not excuse Tehran’s actions today. But it explains the roots of mistrust far better than slogans about “irrational hatred.” Foreign interference crushed a young democracy for oil and geopolitical pride. The consequences have echoed for 70 years.

Now, as U.S. military action against Iran stretches past 60 days without clear congressional authorization, members of Congress from both parties are voicing concern about the War Powers Resolution and the constitutional role of the legislature in decisions of war and peace.

We cannot afford to repeat the arrogance that created this problem. Understanding 1953 is not about guilt. It is about wisdom.