Iran commemoration of Iran-Iraq War prisoners

Iran is holding various ceremonies to commemorate the anniversary of the return of the ‘Azadegan’—prisoners of war from the Iran-Iraq War—to the country.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Army issued a statement describing the return of these prisoners as a “victory of spirit over captivity” and a manifestation of the people’s unyielding will. The military asserted that its current authority is built upon the legacy of martyrs and the experiences of veterans, claiming that any threats to its defensive capabilities will be ineffective.

Regional and provincial officials have participated in local commemorations. In Tehran province, the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs reported serving 1,387 Azadegan. Other ceremonies took place in Zahak, Sarvabad, and Baneh, where officials honored individual veterans and met with the families of deceased prisoners of war to promote a “culture of resistance” among younger generations.

Recent commemorative activities included home visits by officials to honor the resilience and sacrifice of veterans. In Qeshm County, the governor visited several veterans, describing them as “valuable assets to the nation” and emphasizing the necessity of preserving their stories for future generations. In Kurdistan province, officials in Sarvabad and Baneh continued visits to honor veterans and the families of deceased martyrs, focusing on themes of patience, resistance, and the spiritual dignity maintained during years of captivity.