Holy Defense Studies

The utility function of the war game "Operation Fath al-Mubin" based on game theory

shahram Noroozani kohestani; mojtaba fathi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 13 August 2025

Abstract

  به منظور تحلیل عملیات‏های نظامی از دیرباز روش‏ها و فنون مختلفی استفاده می‏گردید. یکی از نظریاتی که ...  Read More به منظور تحلیل عملیات‏های نظامی از دیرباز روش‏ها و فنون مختلفی استفاده می‏گردید. یکی از نظریاتی که در محیط‏های راهبردی با ویژگی‏ محیط ستیز وجود داشته که از طریق آن می‏توان بـه بررسـی حـوادثی از قبیـل جنـگ‏هـا پرداخت، نظریه‏بازی‏ها است. نظریه‏بازی‌ها شاخه‏ای از تحقیق در عملیات محسوب می‏شود که رفتار ریاضی حاکم بر یک موقعیت با اهداف متضاد برای بازیکنان را مورد بررسی قرار داده و براساس نتیج حاصله تابع سود طرفین جنگ را محاسبه کرد. جنگ عراق علیه ایران به‏عنوان یکی از حوادث مهم بین‏المللی است که به مدت هشت سال ادامه یافته و یکی ازنبردهای موفق آن عملیات فتح‏المبین بوده است. هدف از این تحقیق بررسی تابع مطلوبیت (سود) عملیات فتح‏المبین مبتنی بر نظریه بازی‏ها می‏باشد. در این تحقیق نوع تحقیق «کاربردی-توسعه‏ای» و روش تحقیق «توصیفی-تحلیلی» و یک سوال در مورد تابع سود در عملیات فتح‏المبین مطرح شده است. تابع سود بازی جنگ عملیات ذکر شده تحلیل و مطابق مدل مفهومی تحقیق برگرفته از نظر اساتید این حوزه، بازیگران، استراتژی و ارجحیت‏های طرفین جنگ احصاء گردیده است.

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The role of the Supreme Council of Defense in the holy defense

Sayed Amin Hejazi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 25 April 2026

Abstract

  Despite the effective and fundamental role of the Supreme Defense Council during the imposed war, unfortunately, this issue has been less investigated and studied by researchers in ...  Read More Despite the effective and fundamental role of the Supreme Defense Council during the imposed war, unfortunately, this issue has been less investigated and studied by researchers in this field, and apart from one book, there is no independent research work in the form of a book or article on this important issue in defense studies. Holy has not paid. Because explaining the various aspects of the role of the Supreme Defense Council during the period of imposed war is important as an important and influential issue in examining the process of imposed war; Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a detailed and comprehensive study in this field. The current research seeks to answer the question, what was the role of the Supreme Defense Council in the holy defense? The hypothesis of the research is that the Supreme Defense Council determines the country's defense policy, guides and supervises operational plans, creates the necessary coordination between military and national organizations, determines the war propaganda policy, proposes the appointment of commanders of the three army forces to Imam Khomeini (RA), supports War equipment and finance has played a very effective and essential role in the macro and strategic decisions of holy defense. The research based on the results is of an applied type and the data was collected from reliable sources using the library method and the historical descriptive method was used to analyze the data.

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An Aesthetic Study of Collective Memory of War in Iranian Sacred Defense Cinema (Case Study of the Films Didban, Mohajer, and Parvaz dar Shab)

alireza azizi

Volume 11, Issue 4 , March 2026

Abstract

  In Iranian Sacred Defense cinema of the 1980s, the Iran–Iraq War is framed not merely as a series of historical events but as an experiential and perceptual human condition. Image, ...  Read More In Iranian Sacred Defense cinema of the 1980s, the Iran–Iraq War is framed not merely as a series of historical events but as an experiential and perceptual human condition. Image, narrative, and temporality operate as mechanisms that transmit wartime experience and transform it into a shared collective memory. This study examines these aesthetic mechanisms and their role in the production and stabilization of collective memory—an aspect often overshadowed in prior scholarship by descriptive or historical approaches. The significance of the research lies in its focus on the formal and perceptual dimensions of Sacred Defense cinema, avoiding a reduction of war films to event-centered or overtly ideological narratives. The main research question asks how Sacred Defense cinema contributes to the formation and stabilization of collective memory through aesthetic means.Using a qualitative, text-based methodology, the study conducts an aesthetic analysis of narrative structure, cinematic temporality, and visual logic in three selected films—Didban, Mohajer, and Parvaz dar Shab. The findings demonstrate that experience-centered narration, emphasis on stillness and waiting, slow and contemplative temporality, visual economy, and the omission of explicit violence shift war from a historical event to a shared perceptual condition. Furthermore, the portrayal of the combatant as a situational moral agent contributes to the formation of an ethical memory of war. Accordingly, the aesthetic language of Sacred Defense cinema in the 1980s functions as a cultural mechanism for producing and stabilizing a durable collective memory of war.

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Reproducing the types of content of holy defense in digital media (with an emphasis on the audio form)

Hadi Mahmoudi; habibollah mazandarani

Volume 11, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 85-111

Abstract

  The growing use of digital media has made them an important tool in the media war. Publishing holy defense content is an important way to counter cultural aggression. publishing content ...  Read More The growing use of digital media has made them an important tool in the media war. Publishing holy defense content is an important way to counter cultural aggression. publishing content requires understanding the characteristics of these media and their audiences. The purpose of this research is to explain how to reproduce various types of holy defense content in digital media.This research was conducted using two methods: library research - documentary and in-depth interviews, and 20 experts on the media and the Islamic Revolution were interviewed. After analyzing the data with Max Quda, the findings showed that digital media are different from traditional media in terms of characteristics such as the right to choose, the amount of consumption, etc., and the audiences in these media are different in terms of components such as the level of access, age and intellectual spectrum, etc. On this basis, points were explained for publishing 8 general categories of sacred defense content. Also, considering the advantages found for audio, including the power to express abstract topics, elite audience, and ease of use. Further consideration was given to the audio form and features for a suitable podcast were explained. In the context of audio books, the most important element for correct narration was determined to be observing the appropriate tone, and in the context of audio-based stories, while explaining the flexibility of this format for narrating different genres, principles such as dramatic nature and suitability with the platform were raised as points found.

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Explaining the position and activities of the Ministry of Health during the Holy Defense era

رضا کرمی

Volume 11, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 113-136

Abstract

  The imposed war initiated by Iraq against Iran commonly referred to in Iran as the Sacred Defense stands as one of the most turbulent and formative periods in the country’s contemporary ...  Read More The imposed war initiated by Iraq against Iran commonly referred to in Iran as the Sacred Defense stands as one of the most turbulent and formative periods in the country’s contemporary history.Beyond its political, social, and economic repercussions, the war profoundly affected public health and posed unprecedented challenges for Iran’s healthcare system.The purpose of this study is to examine the activities of the Ministry of Health and its guiding role during the war.Particular attention is given to the challenges encountered, the strategies adopted to address them, and the long-term effects of this period on Iran’s healthcare infrastructure.This research seeks to elucidate the position, performance, and valuable experiences of the Ministry of Health throughout the war by combining theoretical knowledge with practical insights. Methodologically, it is grounded in a historical and retrospective approach, employing a descriptive-analytical framework. The primary sources consist of archival records, newspapers, library materials, databases, and memoirs of medical personnel who served on the frontlines.The findings demonstrate that the Ministry of Health, through effective organization, collective and individual efforts, and the utilization of both domestic and foreign resources, was able to meet the urgent medical and health needs of soldiers and war casualties in a highly effective manner.The lessons gained during this period ultimately became an enduring asset for strengthening Irans healthcare system in the years that followed. As one of the few studies dedicated specifically tothe Ministry of Health’srole during the Iran-Iraq War,this paper contributes both to the scholarly field and to future research in related areas

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The Foundational Pillars of the Iranian Nation’s Victory in the 12-Day Defense of 2025: A Discourse Analysis of the Supreme Leader’s Statements

Ali Ahmadpour; seyed mohammadreza mousavi

Volume 11, Issue 3 , November 2025, , Pages 137-162

Abstract

  This research examines the foundational pillars of the Iranian nation’s victory in the 12-Day Defense of 2025 against Israel and its supporters through a systematic discourse ...  Read More This research examines the foundational pillars of the Iranian nation’s victory in the 12-Day Defense of 2025 against Israel and its supporters through a systematic discourse analysis of the statements delivered by the Supreme Leader during the conflict. The central inquiry investigates which elements are foregrounded in the Leader’s discourse as the principal determinants of the Islamic Republic’s success, and how these elements are discursively constructed to articulate narratives of resistance and triumph. The dataset comprises televised messages and official speeches delivered by the Supreme Leader from the onset to the conclusion of the confrontation. Using a qualitative content analysis informed by discourse-analytical principles, the study identifies three dominant and recurrent components: faith, knowledge, and resolve. Within the discourse, faith is framed as a spiritual and integrative foundation; knowledge is represented as a scientific and technological asset that strengthens deterrence; and resolve is portrayed as the psychological and socio-political driving force of national endurance. The interplay of these elements collectively constructs a coherent representation of Iran’s national power. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the Iranian nation’s resistance is presented not solely as a military endeavor but as an expression of collective will in confronting global hegemonic pressures. By emphasizing these three pillars, the Leader’s discourse not only reinforces internal cohesion but also conveys a clear message of deterrence and strategic confidence to external audiences. This study contributes to the scholarly understanding of the interrelationship among faith, knowledge, and resolve in shaping the Islamic Republic’s resistance discourse.

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The Semantic Reconstruction of the Concept of Sacred Defense by Generation Z: A Qualitative Study Based on Grounded Theory

mahmoudreza rahbar qazi; maryam ghorbani

Volume 11, Issue 2 , September 2025, , Pages 9-34

Abstract

  This study intends to understand how Generation Z understands the “Sacred Defense” (Iran-Iraq war) amid advances in culture in contemporary Iran. This generation is temporally ...  Read More This study intends to understand how Generation Z understands the “Sacred Defense” (Iran-Iraq war) amid advances in culture in contemporary Iran. This generation is temporally distant from the war and has grown up in a digitally-connected, multi-voice context. The article shows how generation Z makes sense of the Sacred Defense in relation to their lived experiences. The study follows a qualitative approach and utilizes grounded theory with a Strauss and Corbin style. Data was gathered and analyzed in accordance with 22 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with young people from ages 18-30 in Tabriz. The results revealed the idea of the Sacred Defense is not treated as a given, historical reality for Generation Z, but rather a text that is subject to depart from its canon. In their encounter with the idea of the Sacred Defense, This generation engages in two strategies: 1. Accepting ethical, national, and revolutionary redefinition; and 2. Resisting through critical re-reading and alternative models. Ultimately, Generation Z's engagement with the Sacred Defense has three consequences: the dynamic redefinition of the Sacred Defense which can actively strengthen national discourse, the sometimes, simultaneous acceptance of criticism (being critical) and belonging to existing Sacred Defense narratives, and the potential disaggregation of the generational connection which can disrupt the transmission of values.

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The Relationship Between Military Force and Social Capital in the Holly Defense (Case Study: Operation Kharazm)

Mohammad Abolfathi; sajad rostami

Volume 11, Issue 2 , September 2025, , Pages 35-60

Abstract

  The Holly Defense is full of social movements and popular movements that, at different times and places, have determined a favorable outcome in the war for the Islamic Republic of Iran. ...  Read More The Holly Defense is full of social movements and popular movements that, at different times and places, have determined a favorable outcome in the war for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Accordingly, we cannot look at the Iran-Iraq War solely from a historical-military perspective, but rather, we must examine its dimensions from a social perspective. The aim of the article is to analyze the role of social capital in the retake of the Meymak Heights by analyzing the Kharazm operation in a historical-social framework. The question can be raised as to what factor was effective in determining the outcome of the Kharazm operation and the recapture of the strategic Meymak heights by Iran? Considering the historical data related to the Kharazm operation, it can be said that in addition to the performance of military organizations and military forces, the role of social capital was decisive in creating the success and victory of the Iranians in capturing the Meymak heights. Therefore, the most important factor in determining the desired outcome for the Iranians is the connection between military forces and social factors, such as social capital, in the Kharazm operation.

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From Promotion to Commitment: Jabama and the Responsible Use of the Israel-Iran Attack News Wave

Seyyed Najmoddin Mousavi; zeinab Mahmoodi Pachal

Volume 11, Issue 2 , September 2025, , Pages 81-108

Abstract

  Following the aggressive Israeli attacks on Iran in June 2025, and the subsequent necessity to evacuate certain residential areas and the displacement of some compatriots from their ...  Read More Following the aggressive Israeli attacks on Iran in June 2025, and the subsequent necessity to evacuate certain residential areas and the displacement of some compatriots from their cities of residence, Jabama, through a responsible newsjacking initiative, announced on its social media pages that, given the current conditions, and with the cooperation of Jabama's compassionate hosts, it had arranged for free, installment-based, and specially discounted emergency accommodation in various cities across Iran. The present research aims to analyze social media users' opinions regarding this content and Jabama brand's social responsibility. This is an applied, qualitative research conducted using content analysis. The statistical population included all social media users' comments on this content, from which comments posted on Jabama's Instagram page were selected. Data collection tools included systematic note-taking from the content, and the analysis process was carried out using open, axial, and selective coding. The findings were categorized into three general sections: The first category included codes related to the users' redefinition of the brand, i.e., codes that referred to the brand's characteristics from the perspective of users and audiences who encountered Jabama's content. The second category consisted of codes considered as the brand's emotional and relational capital. The third category comprised codes that symbolically reflected the national brand of Iran.

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Identifying and ranking resources, capabilities and agents of national resource mobilization during sacred defense

asghar mohammadi fateh; Mohammad Rahimzadeh

Volume 11, Issue 2 , September 2025, , Pages 109-137

Abstract

  The research aims to investigate the mobilization of national resources during the Holy Defense era, based on the theoretical framework of the resource-based paradigm, the theory of ...  Read More The research aims to investigate the mobilization of national resources during the Holy Defense era, based on the theoretical framework of the resource-based paradigm, the theory of dynamic capabilities, and the components of the theory of resource mobilization. The empirical background of the research was analyzed with a focus on this historical period. A mixed research method (qualitative-quantitative) was used: 1. Qualitative phase: Interviews with 8 veterans of the Holy Defense field to identify resources, capabilities, and effective factors in resource mobilization. 2. Quantitative phase: Distribution of questionnaires among 13 people and ranking of variables using the Friedman test. In both phases, purposive sampling was carried out.Research findings: 1- Identification of components in the qualitative phase: Resources: 5 types (human, moral, socio-cultural, material, organizational.) Capabilities: 5 types (human, managerial, organizational, economic, technological.) Effective factors: 15 factors (Imam Khomeini's role, people, media, women, institutions, etc.). 2- Ranking of components in the quantitative phase: Resources by priority): 1. Human 2. Moral 3. Social-cultural 4. Material 5. Organizational) Capabilities (1. Human 2. Managerial 3. Organizational 4. Economic 5. Technological) Mobilizing factors) Imam Khomeini (first rank), people, radio and television, women, revolutionary committees, medical staff, tribes, thrift culture, clergy, transportation, equipment modernization, ethnicities, students and newspapers. The results of the research show that resource mobilization during the Holy Defense era was based on the triangle of resources, capabilities and command adequacy. These three elements, in harmony, enabled the optimal utilization of limited resources and the transformation of threats into opportunities.

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Comparative Analysis of the Causes of the Iraq-Iran War: A Multilevel Approach Based on Iranian, Iraqi, and Western Perspectives

seyyed Hadi zarghani

Volume 11, Issue 1 , June 2025, , Pages 53-91

Abstract

  This study employs a hybrid content analysis (qualitative and quantitative) to identify, classify, and evaluate the factors contributing to the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq War. It compares ...  Read More This study employs a hybrid content analysis (qualitative and quantitative) to identify, classify, and evaluate the factors contributing to the outbreak of the Iran-Iraq War. It compares the perspectives of Iranian, Iraqi, and Western researchers, including political officials, military commanders, and academics. Findings reveal that the war resulted from the interaction of 18 multilevel factors, encompassing territorial, geopolitical, ideological, security, psychological, and international dimensions. A comparative analysis highlights significant differences in priorities. Iranian perspectives emphasize Iraq's pursuit of "leadership over the region and the Arab world" and the "Iran-US conflict." Iraqi views focus on "Iran's structural weakness" and the "potential collapse or weakening of the revolutionary regime." Western scholars prioritize the "threat to the survival of Saddam and the Ba'ath Party" and the "ideological conflict between the regimes."However, factors such as "leadership of the region and the Arab world," "Iraq's geopolitical constraints," "the threat to the survival of Saddam and the Ba'ath Party," and "the ideological conflict between political systems" held the highest coefficient of influence across all three groups. The results conclude that the Iran-Iraq War was not the product of a single factor but a complex interplay of individual leader calculations, ideological contradictions, geopolitical rivalries, and international power considerations, underscoring the need for preventive diplomacy and proactive tension management to avoid similar conflicts.

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"A Theoretical Analysis of Factors Influencing Rural Communities’ Participation in National Defense with Emphasis on the Sacred Defense Experience (Case study: border villages in the northwest of Iran) "

Amir Hosein Elhami; Mohsen Rostami; afshin Yeganeh

Volume 11, Issue 1 , June 2025, , Pages 93-120

Abstract

  This study aims to explain the factors influencing the participation of rural border communities in the northwest of Iran in national defense, with a particular emphasis on the experiences ...  Read More This study aims to explain the factors influencing the participation of rural border communities in the northwest of Iran in national defense, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of the Sacred Defense (Iran-Iraq War). The research employs a descriptive-analytical method with a quantitative and field-based approach. The statistical population includes households residing in 124 border villages across the provinces of West Azerbaijan, East Azerbaijan, and Ardabil. Using a simple random sampling method and Cochran’s formula, 377 households were selected as the sample. Data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using Smart PLS software and structural equation modeling (SEM). The study examined geographical, economic-livelihood, managerial-political, and socio-cultural dimensions as influential factors. The results indicated that the geographical, economic-livelihood, and managerial-political dimensions had the strongest and most significant positive effects on rural communities' participation in national defense, whereas the socio-cultural dimension showed weaker and, in some cases, negative correlations. The geographical index, with the highest path coefficient, played a major role in sensitizing and motivating rural residents toward defensive participation. Additionally, the economic-livelihood index, due to its direct link with subsistence and economic security, emerged as a key motivational driver. Based on these findings, strengthening infrastructure and implementing supportive economic and managerial policies—alongside re-evaluating socio-cultural strategies—can foster sustainable participation in national defense. These results hold strategic value for policymakers and development planners in border regions and can contribute to enhancing community resilience and grassroots defense.

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The impact of the values ​​of sacred defense on promoting the position of the resistance axis

amirali ketabi

Volume 11, Issue 1 , June 2025, , Pages 121-141

Abstract

  By raising the question of what effect the values ​​of sacred defense have had on promoting the position of the resistance axis, this research has expressed the hypothesis that ...  Read More By raising the question of what effect the values ​​of sacred defense have had on promoting the position of the resistance axis, this research has expressed the hypothesis that institutionalizing the process of transferring the values ​​and norms of sacred defense has a direct relationship with strengthening the resistance axis, and one of the important and vital values ​​of the Islamic Republic of Iran system that must be properly and continuously spread among all people in this country is resistance and the culture of sacred defense. After collecting data and conducting analysis, the findings of the present research show that the development of sacred defense values, from the perspective of the general elements of power, creating proximity and strategic depth, the ability to create immediate threats, and creating aggressive intentions against the rival and enemy front in order to promote the resistance front, has had a positive effect and is capable of creating. Multi-vectorization of the layers of relations within the context of the axis of resistance with an emphasis on activating the economic and cultural capacity, consolidating the military and defensive power of the axis of resistance at the regional level, moving from a purely security perspective in the field towards political-security initiatives, deepening the level of cooperation between regional allies with major trans-regional powers, and adopting optimal operational measures to confront threats and the enemy's aggressive approach, including the increasing trend of normalizing relations between the Zionist regime and regional countries, are among the most important requirements of the Iranian People's Republic in the axis of resistance.

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A Constructivist Reading of the Notion of Iran’s Territorial Sovereignty within the Discursive Framework of the Islamic Revolution during the Iran–Iraq War

Ehsan Lashgari Tafreshi

Volume 11, Issue 1 , June 2025, , Pages 143-159

Abstract

  One of the approaches in critical geopolitics involves the differential meaning-making of geopolitical phenomena by individuals, political parties, and states, grounded in their respective ...  Read More One of the approaches in critical geopolitics involves the differential meaning-making of geopolitical phenomena by individuals, political parties, and states, grounded in their respective identity-based and discursive origins. Within this framework, the year 1980 ushered in a significant intensification of military hostilities along the Iran–Iraq border, culminating in the onset of an all-out war between the two countries. At this historical juncture, the geopolitical reading of the crisis most notably the construction of meaning surrounding the concept of Iran’s territorial integrity and the underlying justifications for its defense against the Ba‘athist Iraq’s aggression evolved into a profound ideological contestation among three competing discourses within Iran: liberal nationalism, Marxist leftism, and the Islamic Revolution. This study seeks to examine the concept of Iran’s territoriality through the lens of the Islamic Revolution’s discourse, employing an interpretive methodology within the framework of constructivist theory. Research findings reveal that, within the discursive framework of the Islamic Revolution The construction of meaning regarding Iran’s territoriality during the war with Iraq was prioritized on the basis of a religious genealogy, primarily through analogies with the wars of the Prophet of Islam and the Shi‘a Imams in the early Islamic era. Accordingly, Iran’s territorial borders were explicitly construed as the locus of the resurrection of authentic Islam and conceptualization of Iran’s territoriality within the nation-state framework did not achieve epistemic centrality. through the Islamically revolutionary discourse’s anti-Western orientation, the geopolitical rationale for defending Iran’s territorial integrity was framed within the dichotomy between Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Kufr.

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The Role of Martyrdom Culture in Maintaining the System and Sustainability of the Islamic Revolution from the Perspective of the Supreme Leader

Ali Ahmadpour

Volume 10, Issue 4 , February 2025, , Pages 9-36

Abstract

  The culture of sacrifice and martyrdom is considered one of the most important and valuable cultural components and social capitals of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, which originated ...  Read More The culture of sacrifice and martyrdom is considered one of the most important and valuable cultural components and social capitals of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, which originated from the foundations of the holy religion of Islam.The main goal of this research is to explain and analyze the position and role of the culture of martyrdom from the perspective of the Supreme Leader and its impact on shaping the revolutionary and religious identity, strengthening and continuing the Islamic Revolution of Iran.The objectives of this research are to examine the methods and strategies for expanding and transmitting this culture to future generations. In this regard, the research method was carried out in the form of content analysis and qualitative study of the speeches, messages and writings of the Supreme Leader. The findings show that the Supreme Leader considers martyrdom not only as an individual phenomenon on the battlefield, but also as a huge cultural, social and political resource for preserving the Islamic Revolution.The spread of the culture of martyrdom in society through art and media, as well as honoring the families of martyrs, are among the main axes of the continuation of this culture in new generations. Results: This research shows that the culture of martyrdom not only strengthens social and political resistance against external threats, but also, as a religious and cultural value, has profound and positive effects on preserving and continuing the Islamic Revolution of Iran and strengthening national and religious identity.

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The Role of Religious Institutions in Mobilizing the People and Supporting the Holy Defense Fronts

Hassan Hossaini; Talat Dehpahlavan

Volume 10, Issue 4 , February 2025, , Pages 37-56

Abstract

  The Sacred Defense (Iran-Iraq War), as a historical and religious event, was accompanied not only by military dimensions but also by extensive social mobilization and the formation ...  Read More The Sacred Defense (Iran-Iraq War), as a historical and religious event, was accompanied not only by military dimensions but also by extensive social mobilization and the formation of a national identity rooted in religious teachings. This research analyzes the institutional and discursive mechanisms that transformed the clergy and religious institutions into key players in sustaining resistance. The research methodology involves content analysis of historical documents, sermons by clerics, official statements, and interviews with veterans, conducted through a descriptive-analytical approach. The findings indicate that the clergy, by utilizing tools such as jihad fatwas, Friday prayer sermons, and the promotion of a martyrdom culture, played an indispensable role in popular mobilization, strengthening the spirit of resistance, and legitimizing the Sacred Defense. Furthermore, religious institutions like mosques and seminaries became centers for organizing forces, providing ideological training to combatants, and managing social crises. This involvement not only helped consolidate national unity during the critical conditions of war but also reinforced the position of the clergy as a significant force within Iran’s political and social power structure. The results of the study suggest that the integration of promotional, educational, and organizational functions of religious institutions played a pivotal role in transforming the Sacred Defense into an enduring discourse within Iran's collective memory. This study provides deeper insights into the interaction between religion and politics during national crises and lays the groundwork for comparative research in other Islamic societies.

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Analytical study of the impact of the Sacred Defense on the strength and stability of the Islamic Revolution from the perspective of the Imams of the Revolution

sayed mihammadreza musavi; Sayed Ali Mohammad Musavi

Volume 10, Issue 4 , February 2025, , Pages 57-74

Abstract

  The Holy Defense (the eight-year imposed war by Iraq against Iran) as one of the most important events in the contemporary history of Iran, had a profound impact on the strength and ...  Read More The Holy Defense (the eight-year imposed war by Iraq against Iran) as one of the most important events in the contemporary history of Iran, had a profound impact on the strength and stability of the Islamic Revolution. From the perspective of Imam Khomeini (RA) and the Supreme Leader, the Holy Defense was not only a military war, but also a divine test and an opportunity to consolidate the values ​​of the revolution. This article examines the impact of the Holy Defense on the strength and stability of the Islamic Revolution using a descriptive-analytical method and using library resources, historical documents, and statements by Imam Khomeini (RA) and the Supreme Leader. The main question is, from the perspective of the Imams of the Revolution, how did the Holy Defense help strengthen the foundations of the Islamic Revolution and stabilize it against internal and external threats? Research findings: Emphasizing the concept of "war of truth against falsehood," Imam Khomeini (RA) introduced the Holy Defense as a factor for national unity and strengthening the spirit of resistance against internal and external enemies. From the Supreme Leader’s perspective, the Sacred Defense also served as a great educational school in which values ​​such as martyrdom, sacrifice, and resistance to oppression were institutionalized. By creating a national unity among different segments of society, including the military, clergy, and ordinary people, the Sacred Defense helped strengthen the foundations of the revolution and ensured internal stability in critical situations.

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A comparative study of the urban monuments of the war imposed by the Iraqi Ba'ath regime against the Islamic Republic of Iran in Tehran and Baghdad

Abolfazl Kavandi Kateb; Mehrdad Ahmadi

Volume 10, Issue 4 , February 2025, , Pages 133-161

Abstract

  The war memorial landscapes of the city remind the characters and events of a nation's past, and under the physical, mental and symbolic representations in the public places of the ...  Read More The war memorial landscapes of the city remind the characters and events of a nation's past, and under the physical, mental and symbolic representations in the public places of the city, they strengthen the quality of urban memorable realization. Citizens will experience war memorials through communication as a result of the senses experienced. This research has done an analysis of the nature, typology and identification of the concept of war memorial. Also, this research has compared 4 examples of war memorial landscapes in the cities of Tehran and Baghdad through comparative studies. This research defines a theoretical framework and shows the prominence of war memorials in comparison with each other. The research method is descriptive-analytical and the data was collected in the form of document and library study. After reviewing the theoretical literature and extracting the components of war memorial salience evaluation (9 components), this research has analyzed the nature of extracted components in case studies by presenting a systematic method.For this purpose, the method of verbal descriptions (interview) with experts and quantitative analysis (AHP) have been used with their help to advance the research objectives and analyze the components. The results of this research show that war memorials play a significant role in reminding the past of war for future generations, and the place of study memorials in the realization of memories of war events is as follows: 1- The Defense Museum, Tehran; 2- Al-Shaheed,Monument Baghdad; 3- Beheshtzahra (parts of martyrs), Tehran; 4- Monument of the Unknown Soldier, Baghdad.

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Lessons learned from passive defense in the field of vulnerability reduction The time frame of holy defense

Hamid Foruzan

Volume 10, Issue 3 , November 2024, , Pages 9-35

Abstract

  Studying and researching the 8-year war between Iraq and Iran in order to use public opinion and special use in the fields of training, improving the vision of the armed forces, organizing, ...  Read More Studying and researching the 8-year war between Iraq and Iran in order to use public opinion and special use in the fields of training, improving the vision of the armed forces, organizing, and updating the methods and actions of non-agent defense is essential. Passive defense as a low-cost and useful defense tool is an issue that receives a lot of attention in the current era; In such a way that today it is one of the bases of battle and the principles that are used in wars.The current research was conducted with the aim of investigating the experiences and measures of passive defense during the sacred defense era and using the structure of mixed research and descriptive-analytical method, and the technique of reviewing scientific documents and documents and expert interview was used to collect theoretical findings. The results of the research, which is based on the findings of 9 areas from the lessons learned in the sacred defense with the passive defense approach, show that the success of the passive defense in the war imposed by Iraq against Iran depended on several factors, which in total play a significant role in protecting the people, forces, Infrastructures, facilities were responsible for military successes and reduction of human casualties in the war. Another result of the research is the use of lessons learned in the plans and strategic and operational plans of different areas of passive defense of the country to deal with similar and new threats.

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Explanation of the basic principles governing the culture and structure of the armed forces organizations during the Holy Defense

Seyed Asghar Jafari

Volume 10, Issue 3 , November 2024, , Pages 37-62

Abstract

  With the start of the war imposed by the Baath regime of Iraq against Iran, was not enough the defensive power of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic, but during the holy defense, ...  Read More With the start of the war imposed by the Baath regime of Iraq against Iran, was not enough the defensive power of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic, but during the holy defense, the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, relying on important principles in the culture and structure of their organization, made military initiative and operational planning available to the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The purpose of the current research is to identify and explain these principles. The main question to be answered is what are the basic principles governing the culture and structure of the armed forces during the sacred defense. This research is qualitative in terms of its practical purpose and its nature, and descriptive-exploratory in terms of information gathering method. The analytical content of this research was given to a number of experts using the snowball method and the theoretical adequacy of the data, and after the review, it was finally approved. The results of this research showed that there were eight important and fundamental principles governing the structure of the armed forces during the holy defense period, including: the power-oriented principle, the spirituality-oriented principle, the jihadist and revolutionary management principle, the program-oriented principle, the innovation principle, the principle of using the capacity of elites, the principle of Competency, the principle of being committed to moral and humanity in battle.

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Effects and socio-economic consequences of Iraq's imposed war against Iran on the sustainable development process of Kermanshah province

rahman hariri; kamran lotfi

Volume 10, Issue 3 , November 2024, , Pages 63-84

Abstract

  The war imposed by Iraq against the Islamic Republic of Iran (1988-1980) affected the socio-economic landscape as well as the sustainable development of border areas, especially Kermanshah ...  Read More The war imposed by Iraq against the Islamic Republic of Iran (1988-1980) affected the socio-economic landscape as well as the sustainable development of border areas, especially Kermanshah province in the west of Iran; A region that has suffered significant damage due to its proximity to conflict and crisis. The importance of this issue is in understanding the long-term effects of war of attrition on regional development and the necessity of rebuilding war-affected areas. In this regard, the main question of the research is: What are the socio-economic consequences of the war imposed by Iraq against Iran on the process of sustainable development in Kermanshah province? It is hypothesized that the imposed war has severely hindered the development of the region and has led to long-term economic stagnation and social disturbances. Therefore, the objectives of this research include evaluating the impact of war on socio-economic infrastructure, sustainable development, employment, education and public services and identifying post-war recovery measures. Therefore, in terms of methodological foundations, this research is based on conflict theory and post-war reconstruction models, which help to explain how war disrupts development and the challenges of recovery; In other words, it uses a hybrid approach and combines the historical analysis of conflicting data and the content analysis of experts in this field. The findings of the research also indicate that the war led to extensive destruction of infrastructure, loss of human capital, and displacement of the population, which delayed the economic growth and sustainable development of the province for several

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The Transformation in Sacred Defense Studies with Artificial Intelligence: A Novel Approach to Analyzing and Interpreting Historical Data.

Amin Kooshki; seyed mohammadreza mousavi

Volume 10, Issue 3 , November 2024, , Pages 105-133

Abstract

  In the present era, artificial intelligence has become one of the key tools across various fields, with its capabilities in data processing and information analysis significantly enhanced. ...  Read More In the present era, artificial intelligence has become one of the key tools across various fields, with its capabilities in data processing and information analysis significantly enhanced. On the other hand, the Sacred Defense, as an important and influential historical period in shaping national identity, requires more thorough and in-depth investigations to understand its various aspects correctly. This research, utilizing qualitative methods and document analysis, seeks to answer the question of how artificial intelligence can be used to transform Sacred Defense studies and what impact this technology has on the analysis and interpretation of historical data. The findings indicate that while AI can serve as a powerful tool in analyzing the history of the Sacred Defense, its success depends on the quality of the data and the collaboration between technology and human researchers. This study not only examines the challenges of using AI in Sacred Defense studies but also provides suggestions for optimizing these studies, emphasizing the importance of aligning this technology with cultural and social needs.

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Examining the relationship between the group behavior patterns of the commanders and managers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps during the Holy Defense period on morale of warriors with the mediation of motivation

Mojtaba Eskandari; Hossein ZarifManesh

Volume 10, Issue 3 , November 2024, , Pages 135-158

Abstract

  AbstractThe aim of the research is to examine the relationship between the group behaviors of commanders and managers and the morale and motivation of the fighters. The importance of ...  Read More AbstractThe aim of the research is to examine the relationship between the group behaviors of commanders and managers and the morale and motivation of the fighters. The importance of the research is in compiling and transferring the experiences of the Holy Defense to the next generations. The research method is as follows: in the first stage, the behavioral patterns of commanders and managers during the Holy Defense period were extracted. Then, the relationship between the group behavioral patterns of commanders and managers and the morale and motivation of the fighters was measured using the interpretive structural modeling method. The statistical population of the research was the commanders and managers during the Holy Defense period, and a sample of 13 commanders and managers of the IRGC during the Holy Defense period was selected through purposive sampling. The findings of the interpretive structural modeling indicate a direct relationship between the behavioral patterns of IRGC commanders and managers and the morale and motivation of the fighters, and an indirect relationship with the morale of the fighters through the mediation of the motivation variable. Based on the Micmac analysis to measure the influence and dependency of the patterns, none of the behavioral patterns were in the influence zone, and all four patterns of leadership, following, communication, and teamwork of commanders and managers were in the connection zone, which indicates the mutual effects of the behavioral patterns of commanders and managers on the morale and motivation of the warriors during the Holy Defense era.

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The role and effectiveness of holy defense in jihadist management with an emphasis on the intellectual system of Imam Khamenei

Abdullah rajabi dehborzoei; Abdullah Iraqi; mohammad Bidgoli; asadihasan Kadri

Volume 10, Issue 2 , September 2024, , Pages 9-26

Abstract

  The Sacred Defense is a turning point in the history of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, which achieved victory under the influence of various cultural, social, political and managerial ...  Read More The Sacred Defense is a turning point in the history of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, which achieved victory under the influence of various cultural, social, political and managerial factors. The command and management during the Sacred Defense was a valuable treasure and full of knowledge, experiences and innovations. It is important and necessary to preserve, maintain and spread it. The management method of holy defense can be seen as a clear example of Jihadi management. Jihadi management at any point in time is necessary for success and overcoming crises, whether during the holy defense period or now when we are witnessing economic, cultural and political wars. In this article, we will address the main question of the article, what is the role and effectiveness of holy defense in Jihadi management, with emphasis on Imam Khamenei's intellectual system? The findings of the research, using the documentary method, relying on written library sources and articles extracted from the intellectual system of Imam Khamenei, include faith and work for God, insight and not neglecting the existence of the enemy, forgiveness and sacrifice, challenges with obstacles and overcoming They are the speed with the resourcefulness and tirelessness that has been explored.

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Saudi Arabia's foreign policy regarding Iraq's imposed war against Iran

danyal rezapoor

Volume 10, Issue 2 , September 2024, , Pages 27-44

Abstract

  The war imposed by Iraq against Iran is considered one of the most important international events in the late second half of the 20th century, and despite the extensive support of regional ...  Read More The war imposed by Iraq against Iran is considered one of the most important international events in the late second half of the 20th century, and despite the extensive support of regional and extra-regional countries to the Baath regime, unfortunately, there is no complete research on the role and position of the Baath regime. Large regional countries including Saudi Arabia have not been investigated. The following article is devoted to the reasons for Saudi Arabia's support to Iraq during the imposed war with a comparative study and historical analysis and claims that the structural requirements based on the Islamic Revolution and the state of the balance of power at the regional level are the most important determining factors in Saudi Arabia has continued to support the Baath regime. Based on this, in this research, by examining the causes and support structures formed after the start of the war, it is devoted to the study of Saudi Arabia's role in the geopolitical structures of the West Asian region during the imposed war. In this framework, the research question is based on the basis of what was the position of Iraq's long-term and attrition war in the 1980s against revolutionary Iran in Saudi Arabia's threat balancing strategy? Arab rulers of Iraq led by Saddam in order to balance against the threats and influence of revolutionary Iran in the West Asian region. Is. The research method is analytical-explanatory and the theoretical approach of threat balance will be used to analyze the issue.

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