6 Days

The film opens with a depiction of the surge in international terrorism throughout the 1970s. Each unsuccessful mission and subsequent negotiation only legitimized terrorist actions in the eyes of public and political powers.

As Margaret Thatcher assumes the role of Prime Minister in the UK, the ramifications of a recent failed mission to free Americans in Iran loom large. This sets a tense backdrop for the crisis that unfolds.

On April 30, 1980, six Iranians led by Salim seize control of the Iranian Embassy in London. They take 25 hostages, sparking immediate media attention and a swift response from authorities.

Notable figures, including SAS member Rusty Firmin and negotiator Chief Inspector Max Vernon, quickly converge on the scene. The area surrounding the embassy is cordoned off as tension escalates, with police and media in close proximity.

The terrorists, identifying as the Democratic Revolutionary Front for the Liberation of Arabistan, issue an ultimatum for the release of 91 Arab prisoners. They threaten to kill hostages if their demands are not met by the following noon.

In response to the escalating threats, Home Secretary William Whitelaw is informed that the UK government must apply full legal measures. This decision marks the beginning of a delicate balance between diplomacy and potential force.

Max Vernon finds himself negotiating with Salim, trying to mitigate violence while explaining Britain’s limited influence over Iran. His efforts are crucial as the situation veers towards a violent eruption.

During the negotiations, Salim releases one hostage due to illness, showcasing a fleeting moment of humanity amidst the tension. However, he remains resolute in his threat to execute others if demands are not fulfilled.

With the deadline approaching, the SAS uses the additional time from the hostage release to gather critical intelligence on the embassy. They learn that the terrorists are heavily armed, prompting concerns over the safety of the hostages.

The SAS devises a plan to storm the embassy via the skylight. However, the British government deems these plans too risky, resulting in heightened anxiety among command.

As time passes, the urgency increases when another hostage is killed after demands go unmet. The situation becomes critical, compelling the SAS to prepare for intervention, as public and governmental pressure mounts.

On Day 6, tensions explode as Faisal, Salim's subordinate, murders a hostage after further demands are ignored. This incident triggers an immediate response from the SAS, marking a crucial turning point in the operation.

In a calculated move, Rusty and his team enable a diversion that allows the SAS to storm the embassy. Amidst a fierce gunfight, they successfully free the hostages and neutralize the terrorists, including Salim.

Thatcher's choice to deploy the SAS during this hostage crisis is seen as a defining moment in counter-terrorism strategy. This event shapes the future responses of governments around the world to similar terrorist threats.