‘Operation Eagle Claw’ Historic US military failure in Iran’s Tabas Desert

The United States launched a secret military operation called ‘Operation Eagle Claw’ on April 24, 1980, to rescue 52 US embassy workers trapped in Tehran after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The operation, which began with special forces, state-of-the-art helicopters and aircraft in the Tabas Desert in southeastern Iran, was hit by a fierce sandstorm.

Visibility dropped to zero and several US helicopters became completely useless due to mechanical problems.

At one stage of the operation, a helicopter and a C-130 transport plane collided, causing a massive fire.

Eight US soldiers were killed on the spot in the incident. Ultimately, the US was forced to abandon the operation and retreat, leaving several helicopters abandoned.

This historic failure and shameful defeat of the US military is still considered a symbol of resistance and victory by the Iranian people.

Source: Press TV