Part 1/10:
The Iran-Iraq War: A Lasting Conflict Born from Ambition and Miscalculation
The Iran-Iraq War, which began in September 1980, stands as a monumental conflict of the 20th century, representing the last total war of its kind. Initiated by Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein, the war was rooted in a complex historical backdrop that was ignited by the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Saddam, seeking to capitalize on Iran’s instability, anticipated a swift victory over a seemingly weakened adversary. However, his expectation of a quick triumph would instead lead to an eight-year-long conflict that resulted in immense loss of life, significant geopolitical shifts, and a lasting impact on global oil markets.