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Article: Iran-Iraq clash looms despite truce
- Article from:
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Article date:
- August 20, 1988
CopyrightCopyright (null) Chicago Sun-Times. (Hide copyright information)
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Iran and Iraq appeared headed for an early confrontation, as
United Nations observers assumed positions on both sides of a
740-mile zone to monitor a cease-fire scheduled to take effect today.
The potential for a quick showdown was raised by Iraq's
announcement that it planned to send two merchant ships into the
Persian Gulf to challenge a sea blockade that Iran has vowed not to
abandon until a full and "comprehensive" peace is reached.
Iraq's official INA news agency said one of the vessels will
enter through the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian gunboats regularly
intercept cargoes headed in the direction of its enemy of eight
years.
The second ship is to head south from the gulf ...