ABSTRACT
On 22 September 1980 Iraqi forces began a full-scale war against Iran. The Soviets attempted to take advantage of the occasion in order to improve their {elations with Iran and appear strictly neutral. They were even reported to have indirectly passed Iraq's secret plans for an offensive to the enemy. Iran's preoccupation with internal power struggles caused its leaders to view the reports with suspicion, and they refused to believe them.l
President Saddam Husayn expected a quick victory, leading to the overthrow of the Khomeyni regime. He hoped to seize Khuzestan within a few days, then incite successful revolts in Kordestan, and in Iran's armed forces and among the population. None of this took place. In fact, the opposite occurred - the external danger strengthened Iran's regime and brought it the support of many who had previously opposed it.
