Tehran: Iranians are observing Sacred Defense Week, which takes place every year from September 22 to 28. This week marks the anniversary of the Iraqi invasion of Iran that began an eight-year conflict on September 22, 1980. The invasion was carried out by Iraq’s Ba’athist regime with the objective of toppling the newly established Islamic Republic of Iran.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Sacred Defense Week serves as a period of remembrance and respect for those who defended Iran during the prolonged conflict. The war, which lasted until August 1988, had a significant impact on the region and is remembered for its heavy casualties and lasting repercussions for both nations involved.