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Anti-American sentiment in Iran has been prominent for decades. The chant "Death to America" has been in use in Iran since at least theIslamic revolution in 1979,[1][2] along with other phrases often represented as anti-American. A 1953coup which involved theCIA was cited as a grievance.[3] State-sponsored murals characterised as anti-American dot the streets of Tehran.[4][5] It has been suggested that underAyatollah Khomeinianti-Americanism was little more than a way to distinguish between domestic supporters and detractors, and even the phrase "Great Satan"[6] which has previously been associated with anti-Americanism, appears to now signify either the United States or the United Kingdom.[7][8]The U.S. Embassy hostage crisis (1979–1981), where 52 Americans were held captive for 444 days, solidified this rhetoric as a pillar of the Islamic Republic’s identity.[9] Notably, Khomeini’s anti-Americanism also served domestic political purposes, distinguishing loyalists from critics and consolidating power.[10]
While "Death to America" remains a staple of official rhetoric, its interpretation has fluctuated. During theSeptember 11 attacks, Iranian leaders temporarily softened the chant, translating it as "Down with America" to avoid appearing supportive of terrorism.[11] Behind the scenes, historical records reveal pragmatic engagements, such as Khomeini’s secret 1979 overtures to the Carter administration to secure his return to Iran.[10]
Some studies show that anti-Americanism in Iran is related to support forpolitical Islam.[12] US attempts to cripple Iran's economy have also significantly made Anti-American sentiment more common. Students from Tehran have been documented saying about US sanctions: “The more they push, the more it will lead to a rise in anti-Americanism.” and "It’s just a vicious circle."[13][14] This alignment is evident in the rhetoric of groups like Hezbollah and Iraqi militias, which adopted "Death to America" under Iranian influence. However, public opinion in Iran is nuanced; some polls suggest anti-Americanism is less pervasive among citizens than official narratives imply, though U.S. sanctions have exacerbated hostility.[13]
