Iran-Iraq War Books

About Iran-Iraq War

The Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988) was one of the longest and bloodiest conflicts of the 20th century, pitting two major powers in the Persian Gulf against each other in a devastating war of attrition. Initiated by Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, the war began with a surprise invasion of Iran, aimed at exploiting post-revolutionary chaos and seizing control of disputed border regions and oil-rich territories. However, the conflict quickly escalated into a prolonged stalemate, with both sides launching massive human-wave attacks, trench warfare, and indiscriminate bombing of cities. The war featured the extensive use of chemical weapons, especially by Iraq, and drew condemnation from the international community. Civilian casualties were immense, and millions were displaced or killed. Despite support from regional and global powers—including the U.S. indirectly supporting Iraq—Iran managed to regain lost territory and even advanced into Iraq before both sides agreed to a UN-brokered ceasefire in 1988. The war severely weakened both nations, economically and militarily, and left deep scars that would influence Middle Eastern politics for decades. It also set the stage for Saddam’s later aggression in Kuwait and the subsequent Gulf War.