Unfinished History of the Iran-Iraq War: Faith, Firepower, and Iran's Revolutionary Guards

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful and prominent organization in Iran, founded after the Iranian revolution in 1979. Annie Tracy Samuel's book provides an innovative and compelling history of the IRGC, analyzing the links between war and revolution using the Iran-Iraq War as a focal point. By examining how the Revolutionary Guards have recorded and assessed the history of the war, the book offers an internal view of the organization and demonstrates how analyzing Iran's history provides critical tools for understanding its actions today.

Format: Hardback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), established following the Iranian revolution in 1979, stands as one of the most influential and prominent yet enigmatic organizations within Iran. In her book, Annie Tracy Samuel offers a groundbreaking and captivating account of this organization, utilizing the Iran-Iraq War as a central lens for analysis. Through an in-depth examination of the vast array of Persian language publications authored by the highest-ranking members and units of the IRGC, Samuel provides an internal perspective of the IRGC, shedding light on its roles and power in contemporary Iran. This approach not only deepens our understanding of the IRGC's significance in the present day but also underscores the profound impact of the Iran-Iraq War on the Islamic Republic's present and future. By delving into the historical context of Iran, the book unveils the critical insights necessary for comprehending its actions and decisions in the present.

The establishment of the IRGC can be traced back to the aftermath of the Iranian revolution in 1979, when the country faced significant political and social upheaval. The revolution sought to overthrow the ruling Pahlavi dynasty and establish a more democratic and secular government. However, the process was not without its challenges, and the country was soon engulfed in a protracted conflict with neighboring Iraq.

Amidst this backdrop, the Iranian government sought to establish a military force that could defend the country's interests and ensure its stability. The IRGC was born as a result of this need, with its primary mission being to protect the Islamic Republic and its revolutionary ideals.

Over the years, the IRGC has grown to become one of the most powerful and well-equipped military forces in the Middle East. It is estimated to have a personnel strength of over 100,000, including ground troops, air force personnel, and naval officers. The organization is known for its rigorous training and its commitment to the principles of jihad and martyrdom.

The IRGC has played a significant role in various conflicts and wars throughout the region, including the Iran-Iraq War, the Syrian Civil War, and the conflicts in Yemen and Lebanon. In the Iran-Iraq War, the IRGC played a crucial role in defending Iran against Iraqi aggression, and its troops were instrumental in the successful liberation of several occupied territories.

In recent years, the IRGC has also become increasingly involved in domestic politics in Iran. The organization has been accused of suppressing dissent and cracking down on opposition groups, and its members have been implicated in various human rights and rights abuses.

Despite its power and influence, the IRGC remains a controversial organization. Some see it as a necessary tool for defending the country's interests and ensuring its stability, while others view it as a threat to democracy and human rights. The organization's role in the region's conflicts and its domestic politics has also led to calls for greater scrutiny and accountability from the international community.

In conclusion, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful and prominent yet enigmatic organization in Iran. Founded after the Iranian revolution in 1979, the IRGC has grown to become one of the most powerful and well-equipped military forces in the Middle East. Its primary mission is to protect the Islamic Republic and its revolutionary ideals, and it has played a significant role in various conflicts and wars throughout the region. Despite its power and influence, the IRGC remains a controversial organization, with some viewing it as a necessary tool for defending the country's interests and others viewing it as a threat to democracy and human rights. The organization's role in the region's conflicts and its domestic politics has also led to calls for greater scrutiny and accountability from the international community. As Iran continues to play a significant role in the region and the world, understanding the IRGC and its impact on the country's history and present is crucial for navigating the complex and often unpredictable political landscape.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108478427