Seeds of bitterness, milk of kindness...

THE recent revelations about direct CIA involvement in the 1953 Iranian coup d'état (known in Iran as the 28 Mordad coup) bring back very personal memories for Yousef Ahadi, who heads up the operation at the Persian Tent.

The overthrow of the democratically elected government of Iran, and of Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh, took place on 19 August 1953, orchestrated by the UK (under the name 'Operation Boot') and the United States (under the name TPAJAX Project).

Yousef's mother was taking part in a protest against the dictatorship, with Yousef alongside her... the outcome of which is that he reckons the CIA owe him at least a bottle of milk!

Much more seriously, though, he explains in this interview with Just Festival News why the latest revelations need to bring about a real change of heart in the West - and in the world as a whole - away from violence and injustice, and towards a better way of living together.

The legacy of the bitterness between Iran and the West can be found in part in the tragic events which unfolded 60 years ago this month. You can also find out more about Yousef's mother's story here.

Listen to the full podcast here.