Understanding the Iran-Contra Affair

As Mrs. Thatcher departs for the US, the controversy over American arms shipments to Iran is escalating. Despite the uproar, Thatcher focuses on East-West relations, leaving Sir Geoffrey Howe to express the UK's stance against negotiating with terrorists. Meanwhile, Reagan's secret arms deals with Iran, facilitated by Israel, are coming to light, linked to hostage releases. The UK denies involvement, but former Foreign Secretary David Owen suggests otherwise. As Thatcher prepares for talks at Camp David, a Gallup poll reveals British skepticism towards US policies, highlighting tensions in US-Europe relations.

What was the main issue Mrs. Thatcher was dealing with as she left for the United States?

• Environmental concerns

• Economic policies

• Healthcare reforms

• American arms shipments to Iran

What was the British government's stance on negotiating with terrorists?

• They were open to negotiations

• They supported negotiations

• They refused to negotiate

• They were undecided

What event triggered Mr. Reagan's change of heart regarding Iran?

• The Cuban Missile Crisis

• The Gulf War

• The fall of the Berlin Wall

• The TWA hijacking to Beirut

Which country suggested arms and spare parts as a way to show good faith to Iran?

• Germany

• France

• Russia

• Israel

Who was involved in secret talks in London regarding arms deals?

• Robert McFarlane

• Margaret Thatcher

• David Kimchey

• Ronald Reagan

What was the outcome of the arms shipments in terms of hostages?

• Hostages were executed

• Hostages were taken

• No hostages were released

• Several hostages were released

What was the stance of the Foreign Office regarding the arms deals?

• They supported the deals

• They denied knowledge of the deals

• They were aware of the deals

• They initiated the deals

What was Dr. David Owen's claim about Britain's involvement?

• Britain was unaware of any deals

• Britain was mediating peace talks

• Britain was involved in supplying arms

• Britain had no involvement

What is Mrs. Thatcher expected to discuss at Camp David?

• Healthcare reforms

• Environmental issues

• Arms control

• Economic policies

What percentage of Britain viewed the United States as a threat to world peace?

• 26%

• 63%

• 67%

• 20%