Us & Them: Love, the Ayatollah, and Revolution

America and Iran used to be close allies, but since the Iranian Revolution began in 1979, the relationship has been akin to a bad divorce. After President Trump’s announcement to pull the U.S. out of the Iran Nuclear Deal, cable news has been abuzz with political pundits and foreign policy scholars reacting to the latest chapter of the tortured relationship. But there are Iranian and American love stories that have worked out. Trey’s friend Essi Zahedi risked life and limb to flee his country during the Iranian Revolution. His motivation for leaving wasn’t just about politics or religion, or fear for his safety. A major reason was to be with the American woman who captured his heart.

Special thanks to the Lian Ensemble for use of their music.