In the 21st century, the operation in Iran has already become the fourth attempt by the USA to change the regime in that country. Let’s examine what happened as a result of the three previous operations.
Libya (2011): Operation "Unified Protector"
In the spring of 2011, when the "Arab Spring" inspired many nations to seek change, Libya also faced protests against the rule of Muammar Gaddafi.
Under the leadership of President Barack Obama, the USA supported the opposition represented by the "Transitional National Council." Together with France and the United Kingdom, initially independently and later as part of NATO's Operation "Unified Protector," American forces began airstrikes against Libyan troops. On October 20 of the same year, a US drone and a French fighter jet attacked Gaddafi's convoy, leading to his death at the hands of the rebels.
Nearly 15 years later, Libya remains politically divided and unstable.
Iraq (2003): Operation "Shock and Awe"
Photo: US President George W. Bush announces the end of the war in Iraq
After the overthrow of Saddam Hussein on May 1, 2003, George W. Bush, then President of the USA, declared the end of the war in Iraq, claiming that the transition to democracy would require time and effort. Behind him, a banner read "Mission Accomplished." Bush stated that the coalition would remain until it completed its work, after which it would leave the country free.
However, the occupation led to the weakening of state institutions and the rise of Shiite militias supported by Iran. As a result, a power vacuum emerged, contributing to the rise of the terrorist group ISIS, which further destabilized Iraq and neighboring countries.
Afghanistan (2001): Operation "Enduring Freedom"
Another military operation initiated by George W. Bush began just four weeks after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Operation "Enduring Freedom" quickly overthrew the Taliban regime, but the new government supported by the USA was only able to hold power temporarily.
In 2021, after the withdrawal of the last American troops under President Joe Biden, the Taliban regained control over Afghanistan and restored the previous political system.
