The Iraqi–Iranian Dispute and the Situation of Their Armies on the Eve of the War
The chapter deals with the Iraqi-Iranian dispute in the 20th century. Its origins and development and the superpowers involvement in this conflict. The continuous border clashes between the two countries and the Iranian growing involvement in internal Iraqi issues. It deals with the problem of control on the Shatt al-Arab river and the Iranian control of the Hormuz strait in the Persian Gulf. It describes the deterioration in the situation after the deposition of the shah and the establishment of the Islamic regime of Khomeini (February 1979). It describes also the status of the armed forces of both countries—ground forces, air and naval forces—on the eve of the war between them, and their strength and capabilities.