In 1986, the tumultuous Iran-Contra affair prompted significant action from Congress as both houses moved to establish special committees to investigate the controversial events. The Iran-Contra affair, a political scandal involving secret U.S. arms sales to Iran and the illegal funding of Contra rebels in Nicaragua, raised serious questions about government accountability and the Reagan administration’s foreign policy. Following revelations of the scheme, which contradicted stated U.S. policy meant to undermine the Iranian government and prohibited military aid to the Contras, widespread public outcry and media scrutiny warranted congressional intervention. The House of Representatives and the Senate each initiated separate investigations, aiming to uncover the extent of wrongdoing and determine the involvement of senior officials, including National Security Council staff. The investigations, marked by high-profile testimonies, aimed to shed light on the intertwining of U.S. foreign policy initiatives and covert operations. Witnesses included top officials from the Reagan administration, military leaders, and key figures involved in the arms dealings and funding efforts. Notably, the hearings captivated the nation, broadcast live on television, allowing the public to directly witness the proceedings and the intense questioning faced by those implicated. Over the course of the investigations, the committees uncovered a web of deceit, raising critical issues of executive overreach and the disregard for congressional authority. The findings ultimately led to a stark division in public opinion regarding the administration’s accountability. While some officials faced legal consequences, others maintained their innocence, leading to ongoing debates about presidential power and the complexities of foreign intervention. The Iran-Contra affair remains a pivotal chapter in American political history, highlighting the tensions between national security interests and the principles of democratic governance. The congressional investigations underscored the necessity for transparency and oversight in government operations.