1.       Genesis.   Iran and Iraq have had a long history of border disputes. The Shatt-al-Arab waterway that separates the two countries connecting the Persian Gulf with the inland river systems of the Tigris and Euphrates was a major bone of contention. In 1979, the capture of power by the revolutionary forces in Iran was apparently perceived by Iraq as an opportunity to secure total control of the Shatt-al-Arab waterway. This led to an all out conflict between the two West Asian Countries. On 28 September 1980, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution, to end the use of force and for a peaceful process of conflict resolution. The resolution had little impact and the conflict ended after eight years. On 09 August 1988, Security Council approved the establishment of UNIIMOG, which had the mandate to verify, confirm and supervise the ceasefire, and ensure the withdrawal of all forces to the internationally recognized boundaries, pending a comprehensive settlement.

2.      Contribution.    At its peak, the total military strength of UNIIMOG was approximately 400 all ranks, including around 350 military observers from 26 countries, including eight from India. The mission was terminated in February 1991 after Iran and Iraq had withdrawn all forces to the internationally recognized boundaries.