Operation Ajax | CIA & MI6

In the early 1950s, Iran elected a forward-thinking new leader. But where previous regimes had played ball with British and American oil companies in the country, Mohammed Mossadegh refused. In response, Western intelligence services mounted a deadly coup.

Sophia Di Martino and historian Ervand Abrahamian unpick the shocking downfall of Iran's last democratic leader.

From SPYSCAPE, the home of secrets. A Cup And Nuzzle production. Series producer: Joe Foley. Produced by Morgan Childs. Music by Nick Ryan.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices