Who was Fazlollah Zahedi?

Fazlollah Zahedi was an Iranian military officer and statesman, born on May 17, 1892, and died on September 2, 1963. He is primarily known for replacing Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh through a coup d'état supported by the United States and the United Kingdom.

What was Fazlollah Zahedi's familial and ancestral background?

Fazlollah Zahedi was born in Hamadan and was the son of Abol Hassan "Bassir Diwan" Zahedi, a wealthy landowner. He had notable ancestry, being a descendant of the Sufi mystic Sheikh Zahed Gilani and Sheikh Safi-ad-Din Ardabili, the eponym of the Safavid dynasty. Through his mother, he traced his lineage to the dynastic ruler Karim Khan Zand, making him a distant relative of Mohammad Mosaddegh.

What were Fazlollah Zahedi's early military experiences?

Zahedi began his military career in the Iranian Cossack Brigade, which was trained by the Imperial Russian Army. During this time, Reza Khan, who would later become the Iranian monarch, was one of his superiors. Zahedi was involved in suppressing the Jangal movement in Gilan and, at the age of 23, led troops against rebel tribesmen in northern Iran. He was later promoted to Brigadier General by Reza Shah and was involved in the overthrow of Seyyed Zia'eddin Tabatabaee's government in 1920.

What significant government positions did Zahedi hold during Reza Shah's reign?

During Reza Shah's rule, General Zahedi held several important positions. He served as the military governor of Khuzestan province starting in 1926, and in 1932, he became the chief of national police. In 1941, he was appointed as the commanding general of the Isfahan division.

Why was Fazlollah Zahedi arrested and interned by the British after 1941?

Following Reza Shah's abdication in 1941, the British authorities suspected Fazlollah Zahedi of planning an uprising in collaboration with German forces. They also identified him as one of the significant grain-hoarders contributing to public discontent. Consequently, he was arrested by Fitzroy Maclean and subsequently flown out of the country to be interned in Palestine.

What did Fitzroy Maclean find during the arrest of Fazlollah Zahedi?

During the arrest of Fazlollah Zahedi, Fitzroy Maclean discovered a collection of German-made automatic weapons, silk underwear, opium, a register of prostitutes from Isfahan, and correspondence from a local German agent in Zahedi's bedroom.

What roles did Zahedi assume after returning from internment in 1945?

After his return from internment in 1945, during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah, General Zahedi was appointed as the Inspector of military forces in southern Iran. He later returned to his role as chief of national police (Shahrbani) in 1949, a position he took on as part of an effort by Mohammad Reza Shah to counter the growing influence of Sepahbod Haj Ali Razmara.

What was Zahedi's stance on the nationalization of Iran's oil industry?

Zahedi initially supported the Mosaddegh government's nationalization of the oil industry, which had previously been controlled by the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company. This policy aimed to bring the valuable oil resources under Iranian state control.

Why did Zahedi eventually fall out with Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh?

Although Zahedi supported the nationalization of the oil industry, he disagreed with Mosaddegh's increasing tolerance for the outlawed communist Tudeh party, which had actively demonstrated in favor of nationalization. Zahedi was also dismissed by Mosaddegh after a violent crackdown on pro-nationalization protesters in mid-1951, an event that resulted in casualties.

What were the circumstances leading up to the 1953 coup in Iran?

Leading up to the 1953 coup, Iran faced significant economic hardship due to sanctions imposed by Western powers, which severely limited oil exports. This economic crisis, coupled with civil disorder among ethnic groups and labor unrest in the oil fields, put immense pressure on Mosaddegh's government. Zahedi himself had broken with Mosaddegh, who accused Zahedi of plotting a coup.

What was the role of the United States and the United Kingdom in the 1953 Iranian coup?

The United States and the United Kingdom governments played a crucial role in instigating the 1953 coup d'état in Iran. Their intelligence agencies, the CIA and MI6 respectively, were actively involved in planning and executing the operation, known as Operation Ajax, which aimed to remove Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh and restore the Shah's authority.

What was Operation Ajax?

Operation Ajax was the codename for the joint CIA and MI6 operation that orchestrated the 1953 Iranian coup d'état. This operation involved financing newspaper articles, paying agent provocateurs to incite riots, and ultimately led to the overthrow of Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh.

What happened to Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh during the 1953 coup?

During the 1953 coup, Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh was arrested at his home by military units on the night of August 19, following the successful second coup attempt. His rule, which had marked an era of constitutional monarchy, was brought to an end.

What was the Shah's role and reaction during the 1953 coup?

Following the initial failed attempt at a coup on August 15, 1953, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi fled Iran, first to Baghdad and then to Rome. While in exile, he signed decrees dismissing Mosaddegh and appointing Zahedi as Prime Minister. He returned to Iran on August 22, 1953, after the successful second coup had been carried out.

Why was Fazlollah Zahedi chosen by the CIA and UK to lead the post-coup government?

According to the CIA's internal reasoning, Fazlollah Zahedi was selected because he was deemed acceptable to both the United States and Britain. He also had a history of opposing Mosaddegh, possessed a significant following within Iran, and was willing to accept the position of Prime Minister.

When did Fazlollah Zahedi officially become Prime Minister of Iran, and who comprised his cabinet?

General Zahedi was appointed Prime Minister in August 1953, with his cabinet officially declared on August 20. Notably, one-third of the ministers in his cabinet were drawn from the army's officer corps.

When did Zahedi's term as Prime Minister conclude, and who succeeded him?

Fazlollah Zahedi's tenure as Prime Minister of Iran ended in April 1955. He was succeeded in office by Hossein Ala'.

What was Fazlollah Zahedi's final official post?

Fazlollah Zahedi's final official position was serving as Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations, based in Geneva.

When and where did Fazlollah Zahedi die?

Fazlollah Zahedi died on September 2, 1963, in Geneva, Switzerland, at the age of 71.

Describe Fazlollah Zahedi's family life.

Fazlollah Zahedi was married to Khadijeh Pirnia ol-Moluk, who was the daughter of Hossein Pirnia and the maternal granddaughter of Mozaffar ad-Din Shah Qajar. They had two children: a son named Ardeshir and a daughter named Homa.

What were the notable connections of Zahedi's children?

Zahedi's son, Ardeshir Zahedi, became a politician and diplomat, notably marrying Princess Shahnaz Pahlavi, who was the daughter of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and his first wife, Fawzia of Egypt. His daughter, Homa Zahedi, served as a Member of Parliament for the Hamadan province and was married to the journalist and politician Dariush Homayoon.

What military rank did Fazlollah Zahedi achieve?

Fazlollah Zahedi achieved the rank of Lieutenant General in the Imperial Iranian Army.

What were some of the conflicts or revolts Fazlollah Zahedi participated in during his military career?

During his military service, Fazlollah Zahedi participated in several conflicts and revolts. These included the Jungle Movement rebellion, the Simko Shikak revolt (including a specific engagement in 1926), and actions during the Second World War, such as the Anglo-Soviet invasion of Iran.

What awards did Fazlollah Zahedi receive?

Fazlollah Zahedi was recognized with several awards during his career, including the Order of Sepah, the Order of Merit, the Order of the Crown, and the Order of Zolfaghar.

What was Zahedi's role as Minister of Interior in 1951?

In 1951, Fazlollah Zahedi served as the Minister of Interior, first under Prime Minister Hossein Ala' and then continuing in the same role under Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh.

What was Zahedi's role as Minister of Foreign Affairs in 1953?

In 1953, Fazlollah Zahedi briefly served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs under Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh, holding the position from April 7 to April 29 of that year.

What was the significance of the decrees signed by the Shah while in Rome?

The decrees signed by the Shah while in Rome, one dismissing Mosaddegh and the other appointing Zahedi as Prime Minister, were made in accordance with clause 46 of the Iranian constitution. This clause stipulated that the Shah held the authority to appoint all ministers.

How did the Western powers react to Iran's nationalization of the oil industry under Mosaddegh?

The nationalization of Iran's oil industry by Prime Minister Mosaddegh, which had previously been controlled by the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, antagonized Western powers, particularly the United Kingdom and the United States. Their response included imposing economic sanctions, which significantly curtailed Iranian oil exports and led to a severe economic crisis within the country.

What was Zahedi's relationship with the Tudeh party?

Fazlollah Zahedi was at odds with Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh regarding the latter's increasing tolerance for the outlawed communist Tudeh party. While Mosaddegh's government was seen as lenient towards the party, Zahedi's stance was more aligned with opposing its influence, which was a point of contention between them.

What was the state of Iran's economy and social order during Mosaddegh's later premiership, which Zahedi was part of?

During the later period of Mosaddegh's premiership, Iran faced a severe economic crisis largely due to Western sanctions on oil exports. Additionally, there was significant civil disorder among various ethnic groups in southern Iran, and labor unrest among oil-field workers, which further destabilized the country.

What was the outcome of the crackdown on pro-nationalization protesters in mid-1951?

The crackdown on pro-nationalization protesters in mid-1951 resulted in a violent confrontation where 20 people were killed and approximately 2,000 were wounded. This event was a significant factor leading to Zahedi's dismissal by Prime Minister Mosaddegh.

What was the role of Zahedi's father-in-law?

Fazlollah Zahedi's father-in-law was Hossein Pirnia, who held the title Mo'tamen al Molk. Hossein Pirnia's mother was a member of the Qajar dynasty, making Zahedi's wife, Khadijeh Pirnia ol-Moluk, a maternal granddaughter of Mozaffar ad-Din Shah Qajar.

What is the significance of Zahedi's lineage to the Safavid and Zand dynasties?

Zahedi's lineage was significant as he was a descendant of Sheikh Zahed Gilani and Sheikh Safi-ad-Din Ardabili, the founder of the Safavid dynasty. Through his mother, he was also distantly related to Karim Khan Zand, a ruler from the Zand dynasty. This distinguished ancestry placed him within prominent historical Iranian families.

What was the nature of the relationship between Zahedi and Mohammad Mosaddegh?

Fazlollah Zahedi and Mohammad Mosaddegh were distant relatives. While Zahedi initially served in Mosaddegh's government and supported oil nationalization, they later fell out over political and ideological differences, particularly concerning the Tudeh party and the handling of protests. Mosaddegh eventually accused Zahedi of plotting a coup.

What was the Jangal movement that Zahedi was involved in suppressing?

The Jangal movement was a rebellion in the Gilan region of Iran, led by Mirza Kuchik Khan. Fazlollah Zahedi, as part of the Iranian Cossack Brigade, was dispatched to help put an end to this movement during his early military career.

What was Zahedi's role in the overthrow of Seyyed Zia'eddin Tabatabaee's government?

In 1920, General Zahedi was involved in the overthrow of Seyyed Zia'eddin Tabatabaee's government. He collaborated with Meguertitch Khan Davidkhanian in this political maneuver.

What was the status of the Shah's decrees dismissing Mosaddegh and appointing Zahedi?

The decrees signed by the Shah while in Rome, one dismissing Mosaddegh and the other appointing Zahedi as Prime Minister, were made in accordance with clause 46 of the Iranian constitution. This clause stipulated that the Shah held the authority to appoint all ministers.

How did the CIA justify choosing Zahedi for the premiership?

The CIA's internal reasoning for selecting Fazlollah Zahedi as Prime Minister after the coup was multifaceted. They considered him acceptable to the United States and Britain, noted his long-standing opposition to Mosaddegh, recognized his significant popular following, and confirmed his willingness to accept the role.

What was the composition of Zahedi's cabinet?

General Zahedi's cabinet, declared on August 20, 1953, included a significant military presence, with one-third of the ministers being officers from the army.

What was Zahedi's role after his premiership ended?

After his premiership concluded in April 1955, Fazlollah Zahedi took on the role of Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations, based in Geneva.

What is the significance of the Zahedi Family Tomb mentioned in the text?

The Zahedi Family Tomb is the burial place of Fazlollah Zahedi, located at Imamzadeh Abdollah in Ray, Iran. It signifies the final resting place for him and potentially other members of his family.

What was the relationship between Ardeshir Zahedi and the Pahlavi dynasty?

Ardeshir Zahedi, the son of Fazlollah Zahedi, had a significant connection to the Pahlavi dynasty through marriage. He married Princess Shahnaz Pahlavi, who was the daughter of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and his first wife, Fawzia of Egypt.

What political role did Homa Zahedi, Fazlollah Zahedi's daughter, hold?

Homa Zahedi, Fazlollah Zahedi's daughter, was a Member of Parliament. She represented the constituency of the Hamadan province in the Iranian legislature.

What was the nature of the disorder among ethnic groups in southern Iran mentioned in the text?

The text mentions disorder among several ethnic groups in southern Iran as one of the pressures contributing to the economic and political crisis during Mosaddegh's later premiership. This suggests underlying ethnic tensions or unrest in the region that added to the instability of the time.

What does the term Shahrbani refer to in the context of Zahedi's career?

Shahrbani refers to the national police force in Iran. Fazlollah Zahedi held the position of chief of the Shahrbani Police Forces twice, first in 1932 and again in 1949.

What was the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company's significance before nationalization?

The Anglo-Iranian Oil Company was a significant entity because it previously owned and controlled Iran's oil industry before its nationalization. This company is now known as BP (British Petroleum).

What does the phrase De Jure took office in the notes refer to regarding Zahedi's premiership?

The note indicates that Fazlollah Zahedi's premiership began De Jure (meaning by right or legally) on August 13, 1953, through the Shah's royal decree. However, this appointment remained unrecognized by the Iranian government until after the overthrow of Mosaddegh on August 19, 1953, highlighting the contested nature of his initial appointment.

What was the context of Zahedi's appointment as chief of the Shahrbani in 1949?

In 1949, Mohammad Reza Shah appointed General Zahedi as chief of the Shahrbani Police Forces (national police) with the specific intention of countering the growing threat posed by Sepahbod Haj Ali Razmara. This appointment was part of the Shah's political maneuvering to manage powerful military and political figures.

What does the image caption "Zahedi in 1954" signify?

The image caption "Zahedi in 1954" indicates that the accompanying photograph depicts Fazlollah Zahedi during the year 1954. This was during his tenure as Prime Minister of Iran, shortly after he came to power through the 1953 coup.

What does the image caption "Zahedi with his daughter Homa and his son Ardeshir" convey?

This image caption indicates that the photograph shows Fazlollah Zahedi alongside his two children, Homa and Ardeshir. It provides a visual representation of his family life.

Fazlollah Zahedi Wiki: Fazlollah Zahedi: Architect of a Shifting Iran

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Early Life and Lineage

Ancestral Roots

Born in Hamadan on 17 May 1892, Fazlollah Zahedi hailed from a distinguished lineage. He was the son of Abol Hassan "Bassir Diwan" Zahedi, a prominent landowner. His ancestry traced back to influential figures: Sheikh Zahed Gilani, a Sufi mystic and the eponym of the Safavid dynasty, and Karim Khan Zand, a dynastic ruler. This heritage placed him distantly related to Mohammad Mosaddegh, a significant political figure of his time.

Military Beginnings

Zahedi's early career was forged in the military. He served in the Imperial Russian-trained Iranian Cossack Brigade, where he encountered Reza Khan, who would later become the monarch of Iran. At the age of 23, Zahedi demonstrated leadership by commanding troops against rebel tribesmen in the northern provinces. His military prowess led to his promotion to brigadier general by Reza Shah and involvement in significant political shifts, such as the overthrow of Seyyed Zia'eddin Tabatabaee's government.

Early Government Roles

During Reza Shah's reign, Zahedi assumed important governmental positions. He served as the military governor of Khuzestan province starting in 1926 and later became chief of national police in 1932. In 1941, he was appointed commanding general of the Isfahan division, further solidifying his influence within the state apparatus.

Military and Political Ascent

Post-War Challenges

Following Reza Shah's abdication in 1941, Zahedi faced scrutiny. British intelligence suspected him of collaborating with German forces and engaging in illicit grain hoarding. Consequently, he was arrested and interned in Palestine. Upon his return in 1945, during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah, Zahedi resumed his military career, serving as Inspector of military forces in southern Iran. He later returned to lead the national police (Shahrbani) in 1949.

Transition to Politics

In 1950, Zahedi transitioned into the political arena, being appointed as a Senator. His governmental service continued as he was named Minister of Interior in Hossein Ala's administration in 1951. He maintained this portfolio when Mohammad Mosaddegh assumed the premiership. Zahedi initially supported Mosaddegh's nationalization of the oil industry but grew increasingly concerned about Mosaddegh's tolerance of the outlawed Tudeh communist party and the resulting international tensions.

Dismissal and Opposition

Zahedi's tenure as Minister of Interior concluded in mid-1951 following a violent crackdown on protesters. Mosaddegh dismissed him, accusing him of plotting a coup. This marked a significant break, positioning Zahedi as a key opponent to Mosaddegh's government amidst a growing economic crisis fueled by Western sanctions on Iranian oil exports.

The Political Landscape of the 1950s

Ministerial Roles

Zahedi held significant ministerial positions during the early 1950s. He served as Minister of Interior from 1951 to 1951 under Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh. Subsequently, he was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs from April to May 1953, also during Mosaddegh's premiership. These roles placed him at the center of Iran's political and foreign policy decisions during a period of intense national and international flux.

Shifting Alliances

While initially aligned with Mosaddegh's nationalist agenda, particularly the nationalization of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, Zahedi's stance evolved. His concerns regarding the growing influence of the Tudeh party and the resulting antagonism from Western powers, notably the United Kingdom and the United States, led to a divergence. This growing opposition set the stage for his eventual leadership role in the events that followed.

The 1953 Coup d'état

International Intervention

The political climate of the early 1950s was marked by an economic crisis stemming from Western sanctions on Iranian oil exports. In this context, the United States' Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the British intelligence agency MI6 orchestrated "Operation Ajax." This covert operation aimed to destabilize Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh's government and restore the Shah's authority.

Overthrow of Mosaddegh

Zahedi, supported and financed by foreign intelligence services, played a crucial role in the coup. Agents planted propaganda, instigated riots, and fostered opposition. Following an initial failed attempt, a second coup was executed on 19 August 1953. Military units loyal to the Shah arrested Mosaddegh, leading to his downfall. The Shah, who had temporarily fled the country, returned to Iran on 22 August 1953, signaling a significant shift in Iranian political power.

Shah's Return and Zahedi's Appointment

On 15 August, the Shah issued decrees dismissing Mosaddegh and appointing Fazlollah Zahedi as the new Prime Minister, in accordance with constitutional provisions. Zahedi's selection was reportedly influenced by his established opposition to Mosaddegh and his perceived acceptability to the United States and Britain, according to CIA assessments.

Premiership and Later Years

Leading the Nation

General Zahedi officially assumed the role of Prime Minister in August 1953, with his cabinet formally declared on 20 August. His administration included a significant number of army officers, reflecting the military's pivotal role in his ascent. His premiership concluded in April 1955, at which point he was succeeded by Hossein Ala'.

Diplomatic Service

Following his tenure as Prime Minister, Zahedi took on a final significant role as Iran's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva. He passed away in Geneva on 2 September 1963, at the age of 71.

Personal Life and Family

Marital Connections

Fazlollah Zahedi was married to Khadijeh Pirnia ol-Moluk, who was the daughter of Hossein Pirnia (titled Mo'tamen al Molk) and a maternal granddaughter of Mozaffar ad-Din Shah Qajar. This union connected him to prominent political and royal families of Iran.

Notable Descendants

Zahedi and Khadijeh had two children: a son, Ardeshir Zahedi, and a daughter, Homa Zahedi. Ardeshir Zahedi became a notable politician and diplomat, notably marrying Princess Shahnaz Pahlavi, the daughter of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and his first wife, Princess Fawzia of Egypt. Homa Zahedi also entered public life as a Member of Parliament representing the Hamadan province and was married to the journalist and politician Dariush Homayoon.

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References

De Jure took office on the 13th of August 1953 by the Shah's royal decree, remained unrecognised by the Iranian Government until after the overthrow of Mosaddegh on the 19th.

Stephen Kinzer. (2003). All the Shah's Men: An American Coup and the Roots of Middle East Terror, John Wiley and Sons, pp. 102, 142, 195-196

A full list of references for this article are available at the Fazlollah Zahedi Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website regarding historical events, political figures, or governmental roles is for general knowledge and educational context. It is not a substitute for professional historical analysis, political science consultation, or legal advice. Always consult with qualified experts for specific interpretations or applications of historical and political information.

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Fazlollah Zahedi: Architect of a Shifting Iran

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Early Life and Lineage 🏛️

📜 Ancestral Roots

🎖️ Military Beginnings

🏛️ Early Government Roles

Military and Political Ascent 📈

🛡️ Post-War Challenges

🏛️ Transition to Politics

⚖️ Dismissal and Opposition

The Political Landscape of the 1950s 🌍

💼 Ministerial Roles

🤝 Shifting Alliances

The 1953 Coup d'état 💥

🌐 International Intervention

✊ Overthrow of Mosaddegh

👑 Shah's Return and Zahedi's Appointment

Premiership and Later Years 👑

🏛️ Leading the Nation

🌍 Diplomatic Service

Personal Life and Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💍 Marital Connections

👨‍👧‍👦 Notable Descendants

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Early Life and Lineage

Ancestral Roots

Military Beginnings

Early Government Roles

Military and Political Ascent

Post-War Challenges

Transition to Politics

Dismissal and Opposition

The Political Landscape of the 1950s

Ministerial Roles

Shifting Alliances

The 1953 Coup d'état

International Intervention

Overthrow of Mosaddegh

Shah's Return and Zahedi's Appointment

Premiership and Later Years

Leading the Nation

Diplomatic Service

Personal Life and Family

Marital Connections

Notable Descendants

Teacher's Corner

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Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice