Motherland Party (Iran)

The Motherland Party (حزب میهن, Hezb-e Mihan) was a nationalist and pan-Iranist political party in Iran, active primarily during the 1940s and early 1950s. It was founded by Hossein Fatemi, who later became a prominent figure in Mohammad Mosaddegh's National Front government and served as Foreign Minister.

The party advocated for a strong, independent, and unified Iran, often emphasizing the country's historical and cultural heritage. Its platform included policies aimed at promoting Iranian industry, reducing foreign influence, and improving the living standards of ordinary citizens. The party was critical of both British and Soviet influence in Iran, which was a significant concern during and after World War II.

The Motherland Party played a notable role in the movement to nationalize Iran's oil industry. Hossein Fatemi, in particular, was a key proponent of nationalization and a close advisor to Prime Minister Mosaddegh. The party actively supported Mosaddegh's government and its efforts to assert Iranian control over its oil resources.

Following the 1953 coup that overthrew Mosaddegh, the Motherland Party was suppressed, and its members were persecuted. Hossein Fatemi was executed in 1954 for his role in the nationalization movement. The party effectively ceased to exist as an active political force after the coup. The legacy of the Motherland Party is primarily remembered through the figure of Hossein Fatemi and its association with Iranian nationalism and the oil nationalization movement.