TEHRAN – The Conquest of Khorramshahr during the Sacred Defense is a turning point in the history of Iran a heroic event that proved the defense might and collective measure of Iranians in the fight against aggressive powers.
The third of Khordad (May 24) marks the anniversary of the liberation of Khorramshahr in the Iranian calendar.
The Iraqi-imposed war against the Islamic Republic in 1980-1988, the second-longest war of the 20th century after the Vietnam War, is termed the Sacred Defense in Iranian history.
Located in the southwestern province of Iran, Khorramshahr was captured by Iraqi forces in 1980 and was under the occupation of the enemy for 575 days.
Iranian forces recaptured the southwestern strategic port city in Beit Ol-Moqaddas Operation in 1982.
In retaking the city, Iranian forces captured some 19,000 troops from the Iraqi army. Once known as the ‘Bride of the Middle East’, Khorramshahr has turned into a symbol of resistance in Iran.
Khorramshahr is about to host a national conference on war tourism to honor the bravery and courage of the men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect Iran.