"the USA has been messing around with ever since they got the Shah in power in the 1950's"

Please study the history of Iran and get some facts straight. The Shah's father was installed in the 1930's to replace a corrupt government run by a thug, much like Saddam Hussein. The first Shah was one of our most important allies in WWII, providing the "back door" (for food and arms) to Russia through his country. Without the support of Iran, Russia's chances against Hitler were bleak.

The second Shah maintained a secular progressive government despite attempted assinations and coups by both Leftists and Islamic repressive elements who wanted to turn Iran into an Islamic theocracy. Jimmy Carter turned the country over to the latter.