Into the Iranian Embassy (Who Dares Wins #2)

‘A gripping story, told with insight and pace... a seminal chapter in the story of the SAS.’ Richard Foreman

On 30 April 1980, six armed terrorists took over the Iranian Embassy in London. For six days, there was a standoff.

But when they began killing hostages, heavily armed men clad in black, faces obscured by balaclavas, abseiled down the building and smashed their way in. Within minutes the terrorists were dead and the remaining hostages free.

The moment was captured on live TV and broadcast worldwide. This was the dramatic debut of the SAS, whose wartime exploits had long been forgotten by many.

Since the Special Air Service had been disbanded in 1945, it had stealthily been reformed with an anti-terrorist role. Now they proved their mettle in front of millions.

But the outcome was not a forgone conclusion. Things could have gone very wrong if it had not been for the extraordinary skill and training of the Regiment and the leadership of Peter de la Billière, who went on to lead the British forces in the Gulf War.

Once a secretive organization, the SAS suddenly became famous overnight, making them the model for anti-terrorist organizations worldwide.

Applications soared, though members remain anonymous and shun the cameras. The pride of the armed forces, even their decorations for valour are presented privately.

The Iranian Embassy Siege was a key chapter in the history of the Regiment.