Analysis and Explanation of the Role of Ilam Villagers in Advancement of Defensive Strategies During the “sacred defense”

Tribes and villagers in Ilam have had significant historical importance. The dynasties that ruled over Iran until the age of Pahlavi relied on their tribal power and villagers were their main forces and protected the borders against adversaries. During eight years of the Iraqi invasion (1359-1367) the Revolutionary Guards, Iranian Army, Basij, gendarmerie and the Revolution Committee forces that fought the enemy at the fronts, different segments of society had various ways of playing their role in the War. Villagers are highly important due to qualities like large population, being nomadic and moving and tribal hierarchical structure. Due to the nomadic texture in Ilam, this article intends to demanstrate what was the role of Ilami villagers in the “sacred defence” (Iran/ Irag War) and how and in what ways were this role played? using a descriptive-analytical method, This article has tried to explain this role and by analyzing the subject and checking sources and interviews has drawn the conclusion that the villagers of this province have played a noticeable role in strengthening Iran’s economy and spirits of warriors at the fronts by offering services such as: animal production, financial and non-financial support to the fronts, sending troops to the fronts, participating operations and presence in war zones.