On June 15, 1988, the Iran-Contra scandal became public, revealing that senior U.S. officials had secretly facilitated arms sales to Iran, in violation of U.S. policy, to fund Nicaraguan Contra rebels. The scandal implicated members of the Reagan administration, including Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North. The exposure led to a congressional investigation and hearings, revealing illegal and unethical operations. While many were indicted, only a few were convicted, and President Reagan faced significant criticism. The affair raised questions about the executive branchs control over foreign policy and covert operations.