4. Iran-Contra Affair (1985-1987)
The Iran-Contra Affair was a clandestine operation during the Reagan administration involving the secret sale of arms to Iran, which was then embroiled in the Iran-Iraq War and designated as a state sponsor of terrorism. The objective was to secure the release of American hostages held by Hezbollah in Lebanon. Proceeds from these arms sales were illicitly diverted to fund the Contras, a Nicaraguan rebel group opposing the Sandinista government. This covert operation violated the U.S. arms embargo against Iran and circumvented the Boland Amendment, which prohibited U.S. assistance to the Contras. The scheme was exposed in November 1986, leading to widespread political scandal and legal repercussions for several senior officials. For a comprehensive overview, refer to History.com.
