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

The Final Phases (1986–1988)

After years of brutal stalemate, the Iran-Iraq War entered its final phase, marked by shifting strategies, international diplomacy, and the eventual exhaustion of both belligerents.

The Shift in Iraqi Strategy

By 1986, Iraq sought to end the war through negotiations, but Saddam Hussein’s regime was also determined to impose a decisive victory. The Iraqi military launched a series of offensives, including the infamous Operation Ramadan in 1982, which aimed to capture the strategic city of Mehran and cut off Iranian supply lines.

In the late 1980s, Iraq intensified its use of chemical weapons, deploying them against Iranian troops and Kurdish populations within Iraq. Despite international condemnation, Iraq continued these brutal tactics, with Western countries like France and the United States providing support, including intelligence and arms.

Iran’s Resilience and the Role of Ideology

Iran, under the leadership of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khomeini, refused to accept defeat. The revolution’s ideological zeal motivated Iranian forces to fight on despite severe losses. Iran also mobilized its economy and society for war, with widespread participation from civilians, revolutionary guards, and the Basij militia.

The Role of International Diplomacy

The Iran-Iraq conflict drew in regional and global powers. The United States, concerned about Iran’s influence and the stability of the Gulf region, adopted a policy of strategic ambiguity—initially supporting Iraq covertly through intelligence and arms supplies, while publicly claiming neutrality.

Similarly, European countries, notably France and the United Kingdom, supplied Iraq with weapons and military technology. The Soviet Union also maintained a clandestine relationship with Iraq, providing military support.

Meanwhile, Iran faced diplomatic isolation, with many countries wary of its revolutionary regime and its regional ambitions. That said, Iran maintained a resilient stance, emphasizing martyrdom, resistance, and national sovereignty.