Nasr offensive operation (January 5th, 1981)
Stopping Iraqi Ibices throughout the fronts that was completed in October, 1980 caused the enemy not to achieve its objectives and stay inactive in fact. But public opinions demanded that swift action be taken to push back the enemy regardless of pressures exerted for accepting peace treaty. Although attacks by Iranian forces against the enemy in south and west had started since September, launching a big assault against the enemy required adequate preparation and building up sufficient forces.
Based on the order received by IRI army on December 17th, 1980, plan of Nasr Operation was prepared and issued to Qazvin 16th division and Khuzestan 92nd division to begin their attacks in Hoveizeh general area, occupy Hamid garrison and continue their attacks towards international borders.
With regard to the shortage of forces, [finally army 16th division with its 1st I and 3rd brigades, 2nd brigade of 92nd division. 92nd division with ,tank battalion 291 from 77thdivision, a battalion from Revolutionary Guard Corps [and some irregular forces from Dr. Chamran group got ready for an offensive operation. The operation was launched on January 5th, 1981 and by destroying enemy’s units, pre-determined objectives were occupied and about 800 Iraqis were captured.
Resistance and retention of the objectives seized was carried out very well on January 6th, 1981.
However, owing to lack of reserve units and excessive pressure by the enemy, on January 7th and 8th an order was issued for retreating to previous positions. Because in case friendly forces remained in the area and the enemy advancement continued there wouldn’t be any forces to stop Iraqis advancement towards Ahavaz. Action was taken by this bold concept for a renewed resistance, prevented more casualties and advancement of Iraqis. In addition to 141 soldiers from 16th armor division who suffered martyrdom 70 Follower-of-lmam Khomeini university students organized in a battalion from revolutionary Guard Corps were surrounded and martyred by Iraqis.
Result:
-Although the operation was quite successful at the beginning and all objectives were occupied, occupied positions were evacuated after all. - More than 1,000 Iraqis were either killed or injured and 800 captured. - Iraq’s 9th armor division was badly damaged, 45 tanks, 50 vehicles, 15 rocket launchers, 10 personnel carriers and 3 helicopters of the enemy were destroyed. Some tanks and personnel carriers were also seized.
Source:
The book named: Atlas of Unforgettable Battles (Ground forces operations in eight years of holy defense)
Compilation: Staff Colonel Mojtaba Jafari
Other links: Susangerd defensive operation (November 23rd, 1980)
Ashura offensive operation (November 19th, 1980)
Offensive operation to free Susangerd (November 17th, 1980)
Defensive operation at the foot of Karkheh bridge (October 31st, 1980)
North of Abadan offensive, Defensive operation (ctober25th, 1980)
