Question

Explain the term New Cold War.

Answer 1

Two events that occurred in 1979 changed the course of détente. 

1. The Islamic Revolution in Iran under leader Ayatollah Khomeini overthrew the rule of M.R. Shah Pahlavi. The new government withdrew from the CENTO alliance.
2. The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979 and installed Babrak Karmal as the President. The insurgent groups in Afghanistan (mujahideen) fought against this government (1979 - 1989).

New Cold War refers to the end of the period of détente and the return of tensions between the USA and the USSR.