 "Bombardment of Mehrabad Airport, in Iran's capita Tehran by Iraqi forces on the first day of Iran-Iraq war. Wikimedia Commons")
One of the bloodiest conflicts in West Asia began on September 22, 1980, when Saddam Hussein-led Iraq launched a full-scale invasion of Iran. The war lasted eight years and created massive devastation on both sides.
If you are a history geek who loves to learn about important events from the past, Firstpost Explainers’ ongoing series, History Today will be your one-stop destination to explore key events.
On this day in 1994, one of the most iconic TV shows of American television, Friends, made its debut. It was the beginning of a global cultural phenomenon that redefined television comedy.
Here is all that took place on this day across the world.
Beginning of the Iran-Iraq War
The Iran-Iraq War began on September 22, 1980, marking one of the bloodiest conflicts of the late 20th century in West Asia. On this day, then-President of Iraq Saddam Hussein , launched a full-scale war on his neighbour, Iran.
Tensions flared over territorial disputes, particularly control of the Shatt al-Arab waterway, which was a vital route for oil exports. Saddam Hussein also sought to exploit the chaos following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which had overthrown the Shah and brought Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini to power. Hussein feared the spread of Iran’s Islamic revolutionary ideology into Iraq, especially among his country’s Shia majority.
On this day in September, Iraqi forces launched airstrikes across western Iran and pushed troops across the border. Initial advances gave Iraq control of some Iranian territory, but the offensive quickly stalled. Iran mobilised massive numbers of volunteers and, despite being weakened by post-revolutionary turmoil, mounted fierce resistance.
Both sides suffered staggering casualties, which are estimated at over a million combined. Chemical weapons, ballistic missiles, and attacks on civilian centres became hallmarks of the conflict. The Persian Gulf also became a battleground, threatening global oil supplies and drawing international attention.
Global powers played complex roles, with the United States, Soviet Union, and regional states alternately supplying arms or financial support to prevent either side from securing a decisive victory. The war ended only in August 1988, with a UN-brokered ceasefire, leaving borders largely unchanged.
TV show ‘Friends’ debuted in America
Iconic American television series ‘Friends’ debuted on this day in 1994. Airing on NBC, the show followed the lives of six young adults, namely Rachel Green, Monica Geller, Phoebe Buffay, Joey Tribbiani, Chandler Bing, and Ross Geller, who navigate friendship, love, careers, and life in New York City.
Created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman and produced by Kevin S Bright, the series was originally pitched as a story about “that time in your life when your friends are your family.” Its relatable premise, witty writing, and ensemble cast quickly captured the attention of audiences.
The debut episode, titled “The Pilot”, introduced viewers to the now-familiar setting of Central Perk cafe, Monica’s apartment, and the quirky, intertwined dynamics of the six friends. Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer soon became household names as the show’s popularity skyrocketed.
Though the first season received mixed reviews from critics, Friends rapidly developed a passionate fan base. Its combination of humour, emotional depth, and cultural relatability struck a chord, particularly among young adults. Over time, catchphrases like Joey’s “How you doin’?” and Chandler’s sarcastic one-liners became part of pop culture.
This Day, That Year
On this day in 2002, hundreds of thousands of rural protesters converged on London to demonstrate in favour of foxhunting.
In 1888, the first issue of National Geographic Magazine was published.