dec 27, 1982 - nicaragua and Iran contra affair
Description:
The Iran Contra Affair began as an internal U.S. confrontation between Ronald Reagan and the Democratic Congress. In 1984, the Boland Amendment passed, which said that the CIA and Department of Defense could not give militaristic aid (specifically in Nicaragua). The conflict began in 1985, while Iran and Iraq were at war with each other. Reagan had hopes that if he were to supply Iran with United States military supplies and weapons, then the relations with Iran may be strengthened, and in turn would lead to improved relations with Lebanon and a stronger U.S. position in the Middle East. Reagan was also hoping that if he were to place the U.S. in good standings with Iran, he may be able to release seven American hostages who were being held captive by Iranian terrorists.
This “arms-for-hostages” proposal was in direct violation of the Boland Amendment passed only a year prior. One specification of the deal made in July 1985, was that over 500 anti-tank missiles would be sent to Iran from Israel in exchange for American Reverend Benjamin Weir. Ironically, the initial trade of arms for three hostages had somewhat backfired as those released were replaced by three more. More trade of military weapons for hostages continued, resulting in the release of all of the American hostages and an accumulation of over 1500 American missiles of various types in Iranian hands.
Added to timeline:
Cold war timeline:Evan Teter
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