Border Disputes: Iran and Iraq had a long-standing dispute over their shared border, particularly the Shatt al-Arab waterway, which provides access to the Persian Gulf. Iraq claimed the entire waterway, while Iran insisted on joint control. Tensions escalated after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which brought a hostile regime to power in Tehran.
Regional and Political Rivalries: Iraq was ruled by Saddam Hussein, an ambitious and aggressive leader who saw an opportunity to expand his power and influence in the region. He perceived Iran as a threat due to its revolutionary ideology, military capabilities, and growing regional influence. On the other hand, Iran's leaders viewed Iraq as a puppet of the Western powers and a potential threat to their newly established Islamic republic.
Oil Resources and Economic Factors: Both Iran and Iraq were major oil producers, and control over oil-rich territories was a significant motivator for the war. Iraq's economy was heavily dependent on oil exports, and Saddam Hussein sought to secure greater control over the oil resources in the disputed border areas. Iran, on the other hand, aimed to assert its independence and reduce its reliance on foreign oil companies.
Territorial Disputes: In addition to the border disputes, Iraq had claims on certain Iranian territories, including the Khuzestan province, which is rich in oil resources. Iraq's invasion aimed to annex these territories and weaken Iran's position in the region.
The combination of these factors, including territorial disputes, regional rivalries, economic motivations, and the personal ambitions of Saddam Hussein, led to the outbreak of war between Iran and Iraq in September 1980. The conflict lasted for nearly eight years and resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties, significant economic damage, and increased regional instability.
