Iran-Iraq Conflict

The Iran-Iraq conflict, which started in September of 1980, is without a doubt the most bloody war since World War II. Sadly, however, unless the Ayatollah Khomeini’s brand of revolutionary theocracy becomes the subject of an international diplomatic and economic assault, the war will continue indefinitely.

More than half a million people have died and 3 million persons have been left homeless and are refugees; millions have been maimed and injured. In the meantime, Iraq, which ventured into Iran due to Saddam Hussein’s regional ambitions, has long stated its desire for a peace settlement in accordance with the Algiers Agreement of 1975, which respects the territorial integrity of both nations. Yet Khomeini speaks only of a final victory, and his position and intransigence have become irreversible.

All the peace initiatives, so far, have failed because they have either been aimed at only keeping the international waterways of the Persian Gulf open, or preventing the bombings of civilian targets in the major cities.

Since Khomeini clearly sees more risks in peace than in war, any peace initiative that is going to get the attention of the Iranian people must be addressed to the people, who earnestly seek an equitable settlement, and not to the Islamic Republic.

A truly genuine initiative on the part of the free world, led by the United States, will have the support of the moderate Arab states and even the Soviet Union. Such an initiative directed toward the people of Iran will alienate Khomeini from the high ranking clergy, and the military and civilian bureaucracies, who have all indicated their opposition to the continuation of the war.

Given the choice and the attention they deserve, the Iranian people will demonstrate their support for such a peace initiative and will opt for an equitable and honorable settlement with Iraq.

SAID DJABBARI

Pasadena