Iran's Armed Forces Mark Anniversary of POWs' Return Home

On the occasion of the anniversary of the return of Iranian prisoners of war (POWs) to their homeland, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran issued a statement on August 17, 2025. The statement congratulated the veterans and their families on this blessed day, which is observed in Iran as the "Day of Return of POWs and Missing in Action."

The statement emphasized that the Armed Forces will not back down from the legitimate demands of the Iranian people and the Leader until the US-Israeli enemies are fully defeated in the region, the rights of the Iranian nation are upheld, and the enemy surrenders. It described the eight years of the Sacred Defense (1980-1988) as a golden page of honor, pride, and zeal for Iranians, symbolizing self-confidence, freedom-seeking, and insight. Those who stood bravely against the aggression of enemies in response to the call of guardianship of the jurist defined Islamic honor and authority.

The General Staff appreciated the iron will and firm determination of the steadfast and patient nation of Islamic Iran, assuring them that it will continue to pursue the legitimate demands of the people against US and Israeli aggressors until the complete defeat of the American-Zionist enemies in the region.

The anniversary of the return of POWs is a day of commemoration for the homecoming of Iranian prisoners of war after the Iran-Iraq war (1980-1988). This year, the observance took place in Tehran on August 17. According to Mehr News Agency, the statement was issued by the General Staff of the Armed Forces and highlighted the significance of this day in Iran's history.