On 30 April 1980, six heavily armed gunmen burst into the Iranian embassy in London and took 26 people hostage, setting in motion a tense six-day siege closely followed by the world’s media.
Millions around the globe watched as police negotiators and psychiatrists sought a bloodless end to the standoff and the SAS – hitherto an organisation shrouded in secrecy – laid plans for a daring rescue mission: Operation Nimrod.
“The pre-eminent historian of the secret world” Ben Macintyre’s best- selling The Siege thrillingly recounts the events of this daring mission and includes the first-ever authorised accounts from the soldiers involved, including that of Fijian Staff Sergeant Tom Morell, whose bravery and skill saved many lives.
In this very special session, Macintyre meets Morell – now in his 80s and living in Aotearoa New Zealand – in person for the first time and together they unveil one of the most notable chapters in the history of the SAS. Chaired by Anna Fifield.
Supported by the Michael King Writers Centre.
Also at Auckland Writers Festival
$2 per hour to a max of $12 on weekends and a $12 flat rate for weekday evenings at The Civic car park. Find out more.