War Anniversary 2025 in Tehran: Commemorating Sacrifice, Regional Impact, and Future Outlook

Origins and Causes of the Iran-Iraq War

The origins of the Iran-Iraq War are rooted in complex political, territorial, and ideological disputes. Following the Iranian Revolution of 1979, which overthrew the monarchy and established an Islamic Republic, Saddam Hussein’s Iraq perceived Iran’s new government as a threat to regional stability and its own regime security. Tensions escalated over border disputes, particularly in the Shatt al-Arab waterway, and fears of revolutionary export from Iran’s Islamic regime.

Saddam Hussein’s regime aimed to assert dominance over the Persian Gulf and curb Iran’s revolutionary influence. The invasion of Iran on September 22, 1980, marked the beginning of a brutal eight-year conflict characterized by trench warfare, chemical weapons, and widespread civilian suffering.

Major Battles and Turning Points

The Battle of Khorramshahr, often referred to as the “Second Battle of Khorramshahr,” was a pivotal moment in the war. Iranian forces, despite suffering heavy casualties, managed to recapture the city in 1982 after Iraqi occupation. This victory became a rallying point for Iranian national pride and resistance.

The Battle of Basra, Iraq’s second-largest city, was another critical engagement. Iraqi forces launched a brutal offensive to seize control but faced stiff resistance from Iranian troops and militia. The prolonged conflict drained both nations’ resources, leading to a war of attrition.

September 25, 2025 | 1:26 pm