The Socialist Program with Brian Becker 'Operation Ajax' in Iran: The CIA's Original Sin
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Mar 2, 2026 A deep dive into the 1953 CIA-orchestrated coup in Iran and how it set the template for later covert interventions. Discussion of oil interests, British and American planning, and the tactics used on the ground. Exploration of the coup's aftermath: the Shah's repression, Iran's political upheavals, and the long shadow on US–Iran relations.
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Britain Used Economic Siege To Punish Iran
- Britain responded to nationalization with a global boycott, naval blockade, and sabotage of Abadan refinery to strangle Iran economically.
- British officials feared Iran's example would inspire similar moves across their empire.
Dulles Brothers Made Covert Action Central
- The Dulles brothers (John Foster and Allen) shaped Eisenhower-era covert policy and pushed US involvement in overthrowing Mossadegh.
- Their appointment cemented covert action as central US foreign policy tool.
Anti-Communism Provided Cover For Resource Control
- The Cold War threat was used as a pretext even though Mossadegh was anti-communist; anti-Soviet framing masked oil and imperial interests.
- Leanne Fulahan argues the communist threat claim was largely a disguise for predatory goals.