Explosive developments in Iran over the weekend leave the observer puzzled indeed over the actual issues and probable outcome of what looks like a test of strength between the shah, Mohammed Riza Pahlevi, [sic—Mohammad Reza Pahlavi] and Premier Mohammed Mossadegh.

Apparently the shah took no direct part in the dispute—having decided to leave Iran after a series of conferences with Mossadegh in which the aging premier was supposed to have demanded new concessions from the young ruler.

But Mossadegh’s enemies, who clearly represent a faction far stronger than was previously supposed, used the incident to stir up indignation against the premier. Anti-Mossadegh mobs filled the streets demanding that the shah remain in Iran and forcing the premier to flee his home and take refuge in the Parliament building.

Later pro-Mossadegh mobs took over, shouting “death or Mossadegh” just as the earlier demonstrators had shouted “death or the shah.” After a few hours, the premier returned to his home.

Reports from the small, poverty-stricken nation remain unclear. Mossadegh still seems to to be the “strong man” who is using his dictatorial powers to entrench further his authority. Scores of persons, some of them high-ranking military men, have been arrested.

In the game of rule by riot, Mossadegh is hard to beat.