Iran launches Operation Dezful

Warren Christopher said the United States would remain neutral in the war while defending its vital Gulf interests, revealing the limits of Washington’s public neutrality claim.

UPI reported that the Iran–Iraq war had forced three oil meetings to be postponed. Fighting between two member states obstructed the organization’s work on oil policy.

Iraq asked Indira Gandhi to initiate a solution to the war, citing India’s friendship with both belligerents. The request opened another potential channel of mediation.

Prince Fahd approved expert discussions with the United States on regional contingencies and support arrangements. The U.S. ambassador’s report stressed Saudi sensitivity over public exposure.

Gromyko told Ambassador Watson that U.S. naval deployments increased pressure on Iran. He denied Soviet arms deliveries to either belligerent and urged restraint, according to the U.S. meeting report.

UPI reported diplomatic sources expecting early French deliveries of Mirage fighters and other equipment to Iraq. The report described an anticipated transfer, not confirmed arrivals that day.

Iran reported that Iraqi missiles struck the Red Crescent relief hospital in Abadan. The allegation highlighted danger to medical services during the siege.

The U.S. embassy reported agreement with Saudi Arabia on contingency cooperation, possible American use of facilities, and keeping Hormuz open. This expanded the framework for talks begun earlier.

Prime Minister Mohammad Ali Rajai addressed the Security Council, denouncing Iraq’s invasion and accusing the United States of supporting the conflict.

The Iranian effort to stop Iraqi forces around Dezful failed to produce a decisive reversal. The fighting exposed the cost of launching armor without adequate coordination and left Iran dependent on a...