What event showed that the Middle Eastern countries were capable of standing up to the European Countries?

Iran’s pragmatism has at times outweighed its anti-Western ideology. Despite its enmity with the US, Tehran has been open to negotiating with Washington in the interests of national security – such as after the US-led invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan, and over the Iranian nuclear programme.

To be sure, Iran faces constraints on its regional activities. Tehran’s friends maintain a degree of independence and may well push for more in ways that mean they are not wholly subservient to Iranian interests. Despite having a close affinity with Tehran, the Assad regime and the government of Haider al-Abadi in Iraq have been eager to limit their dependence on Tehran. Abadi has maintained strong ties to Washington and sought to improve relations with Saudi Arabi.

julius caesar turned the roman republic into the roman empire by coming in and taking the "dictator" role during the time of a civil war (elites vs lower classes) winning battles and reputation, then declaring him dictator for life

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fighting to keep abortions legal