The region was grappling with the aftermath of the Islamic revolution in Iran, a significant event that transformed the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and Central Asia. This revolution not only affected the internal dynamics of Iran but also had far-reaching consequences for neighboring countries and U.S. foreign policy in the area. The strategic balance was disrupted, leading to increased tensions and shifts in alliances.

In the context of this upheaval, the complexities of regime change became more pronounced. The challenges faced by various states in the region were influenced by the revolutionary fervor emanating from Iran, which prompted a reassessment of power structures and national identities. Kinzer’s analysis highlights how such events shaped American interventions and altered the course of history in the region during a turbulent period.