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Battle of Herat

The term "Battle of Herat" refers to several distinct military engagements throughout history involving the city of Herat.[2]

Strategic Importance of Herat

During the 19th century, it was considered a key point for Russian interests and a "key to India" because of the fertile country in its vicinity.[3]

The 2001 Uprising

The 2001 uprising in Herat was a coordinated insurrection during the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021).[2][4] The city was captured on November 12, 2001.[4] The capture was achieved by a coalition of Northern Alliance forces and international units.[4]

Role of the Northern Alliance and International Involvement

Forces from the Northern Alliance cooperated with international military personnel during the city's fall.[4] The international involvement included the United States, the United Kingdom, and Iran.[4]

Aftermath and Security

Following the 2001 uprising, the city remained a site of significant military activity and security challenges.[5] In 2021, reports emerged of fighting in the area, with local officials reporting the deaths of dozens of militants during operations against Taliban forces.[5] Residents in the area have noted that the current security environment and the social fabric of the city differ significantly from the conditions of previous decades.[6]

Historical Engagements

Several other major battles have occurred in Herat across different eras:

  • Early History: A major battle occurred in 484 AD between the Sasanian Empire under Peroz I and the Hephthalites.[1][2]
    In 1270, a decisive battle occurred between the Ilkhanid forces of Abaqa Khan and the Chagatai forces of Ghiyas-ud-din Baraq.[2][7][8]

  • Timurid and Safavid Wars: The city was besieged by Timur in 1381.[2]

  • Nader Shah Campaigns: In 1729, the forces of Nader Shah engaged with the Abdali Afghans.[1][2][9]
  • Qajar and Great Game Era: During the Great Game, several conflicts occurred, including a 1833 siege and various wars between the Qajar state and the Emirate of Afghanistan over the control of the province.[2][10][11] In 1856, the city was captured by Iranian forces under the command of Hosam al-Saltaneh.[12][13]

Sources

  1. نبرد هرات - ویکی‌پدیا، دانشنامهٔ آزاد
  2. Battle of Herat - Wikipedia
  3. Los Angeles Daily Times 1885-04-24: Vol 7 Iss 115
  4. 2001 uprising in Herat - Wikipedia
  5. هرات کې جګړه؛ د هشتګ له جوړولو تر تکبیر نارې پورې
  6. هرات کې جګړه؛ الوتنې هم بندي شوي | طلوع‌نیوز
  7. Battle of Herat (1270) - Wikipedia
  8. The Battle of Herat (1270): A Case of Inter-Mongol... - Medievalists.net
  9. Battle of Herat (1729) - Wikipedia
  10. جنگ اول هرات - ویکی‌پدیا، دانشنامهٔ آزاد
  11. د هرات لومړۍ جګړه - ويکيپېډيا
  12. د هرات کلابندي (۱۸۵۶ کال) - ويکيپېډيا
  13. مستند تاریخ قاجار: جنگ ایران و انگلیس | قسمت سوم: اشغال بوشهر