USA and Iran: negotiations approach an end on a symbolic day for Iranians

Efforts to broker a deal between the United States and Iran are reaching a turning point on a highly symbolic date for Iranians - the anniversary of the 1982 liberation of the city of Khorramshahr, considered a turning point in that decade's war against Iraq.

The conflict began in September 1980, when former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein invaded the neighboring country following the revolution that brought Iranian clerical leaders to power. The war, which caused devastating losses for both countries, ended in August 1988 with a UN-backed agreement.

Several high-ranking officials have released statements marking the date, which appear as directed at the United States as they are intended for commemoration.

With a deal appearing close, today could also prove to be a defining moment in Iranian history.

"No tyrant has the power to oppose Iran's dedicated and faithful soldiers," wrote Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

In his anniversary message, Ghalibaf praised the "unparalleled bravery" of Iranian fighters. "These fighters taught the world that honor and dignity belong to a nation that combines faith, determination, patriotism and courage with knowledge and hard work - and such a nation will never taste the bitterness of defeat," he said.

Iran's president echoed Ghalibaf's words, making a direct comparison between the country's current conflict and that of 44 years ago.

"Khorramshahr today is Iran, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz," wrote Masoud Pezeshkian in a post on X. "Resistance, sacrifice and repulsion of aggression are rooted in the culture of this land."

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Source: CNN