US-Iran Relations: A New Chapter Begins Amidst Military Actions and Diplomatic Efforts

A new chapter unfolds in US-Iran relations, marked by a shift in tone. For decades, the two nations have been embroiled in hostility, with the US often labelling Iran as part of the "Axis of Evil." Recently, however, President Donald Trump expressed unexpected sentiments, saying, "God bless Iran," following a series of military engagements and a tentative ceasefire.

This change came after the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites, prompting Iran to retaliate against a US base in Qatar. Despite Trump's claims that the strikes destroyed Iran's nuclear programme, a US intelligence report indicated significant damage but not total destruction. The ceasefire was brokered amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran.

Historical Tensions and Key Events

The roots of US-Iran animosity trace back to Operation Ajax in 1953. This CIA-led coup, supported by Britain, overthrew Iran's elected government and installed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The West feared Soviet influence and sought control over Iran's oil industry. The shah's rule mended ties with the US but sparked resentment among Iranians due to his autocratic governance.

In 1979, these grievances erupted into revolution. The shah fled, and theocratic leaders took power, intensifying anti-American sentiment. On November 4, 1979, Iranian students seized 66 American hostages at the US embassy, holding most for 444 days. This crisis humiliated the US and strained diplomatic relations further.

Military Engagements and Political Intrigue

The recent US attack on Iran is not unprecedented. In April 1988, during Operation Praying Mantis, the US Navy sank Iranian ships in retaliation for an attack on USS Samuel B Roberts. This was one of the largest naval engagements since World War II.

During the Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988), the US unofficially supported Iraq with economic aid and intelligence to prevent an Iranian victory. Both nations suffered massive casualties without a clear winner. Later, US-Iraq relations deteriorated significantly.

Covert Operations and Designations

The Iran-Contra affair revealed covert cooperation between the US and Iran. Despite designating Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism in 1984, the US secretly sold arms to Iran to secure hostages' release in Lebanon and fund Nicaraguan rebels illegally. President Ronald Reagan faced scandal but avoided legal repercussions.

Currently, only four countries are labelled as state sponsors of terrorism by the US: Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Syria. This designation subjects them to extensive sanctions. Syria's status is under review following Bashar Assad's government's fall.

The evolving dynamics between the US and Iran continue to shape global politics. While recent developments hint at possible changes in their relationship, historical tensions remain deeply rooted.

With inputs from PTI