Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the US and Israel’s unlikely choice to lead Iran
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has emerged as an unexpected candidate for leadership in Iran, backed by the US and Israel. His past as a populist leader and his controversial statements against Israel have created a complex narrative around his potential return to power. However, recent military actions aimed at freeing him from house arrest have not gone as planned, leaving his future uncertain.
- ▪Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was reportedly considered by the US and Israel to lead Iran after the regime's collapse.
- ▪Israeli strikes intended to free Ahmadinejad from house arrest resulted in casualties and injuries, complicating the plan.
- ▪Ahmadinejad's past as a divisive figure includes calls for Israel to be 'wiped off the map' and a controversial election win in 2009.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Donald Trump and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad share a populist headline-grabbing style. Composite: ReutersView image in fullscreenDonald Trump and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad share a populist headline-grabbing style. Composite: ReutersIranAnalysisMahmoud Ahmadinejad, the US and Israel’s unlikely choice to lead IranRobert Tait in WashingtonPopulist former president’s falling-out with the Tehran regime allegedly drew him into a takeover plot US and Israel hoped to install Ahmadinejad as Iran’s leader Wed 20 May 2026 14.09 EDTLast modified on Wed 20 May 2026 14.10 EDTShareFor all their outward differences, there always seemed to be things that linked Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Donald Trump.A visit to the then Iranian president’s rather humble Tehran neighbourhood nearly 20 years ago highlighted cost of living…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — World
