Operation Nimrod

Operation Nimrod was a spectacular counter-terrorist raid conducted by the Special Air Service the Iranian Embassy in London.

A six-man terrorist team, sponsored by Iraq, captured the building in mid-London on 30 April, 1980. Initially twenty-six hostages were taken, but five were released over the next few days.

The terrorist killed two hostages, throwing the bodies outside. This prompted the political decision to conduct the rescue.

The reclusive Special Air Service found itself conducting a sharp, violent attack under the glare of the world's television cameras. One terrorist was captured, five were killed while the remaining hostages were rescued in a textbook operation that featured black-hooded raiders entering from both the top and front of the building.