Battle of Singan

Battle of Singan
Part of Kurdish-Iranian conflict (1946–1947)
Date 1947 Location Singan, near the Iran-Iraq border Result Kurdish victory
Belligerents
Kurdish forces (Barzani fighters)	Iranian Army Mangur tribe cavalry
Commanders and leaders
Mustafa Barzani Baqi Aziz Mergasuri Keko Mullah Ali	Ali Razmara X
Strength
outnumbered	300 Troops 75 artillery pieces
Casualties and losses
several killed	Heavy

Background

Following the collapse of the Republic of Mahabad, Mustafa Barzani and his forces retreated to strategic positions near the Iran-Iraq border. Anticipating further Iranian offensives, the Iranian government deployed significant military units to the region.

An Iranian army unit from Hamadan, equipped with 75 artillery pieces, advanced towards Nalos under the cover of night. Meanwhile, the Mangur cavalry, allied with the Iranian forces, moved towards Singan during the day, crossing the Gadar River. Barzani forces, stationed at Singan Castle, monitored their movements and prepared an ambush.

The Battle

As the Mangur cavalry neared Singan, Barzani fighters launched a surprise attack, causing heavy losses and forcing a retreat toward the Gadar River. A second assault by Barzani forces drove approximately 300 Mangur cavalrymen towards the southern heights.

Simultaneously, Kurdish artillery, positioned on elevated terrain, bombarded the advancing Iranian army. Unable to withstand the attack, the Iranian forces retreated with their artillery and infantry to the village of Nalos.

Casualties

The Barzani forces suffered several casualties, including the death of Baqi Aziz Mergasuri. Keko Mullah Ali sustained serious injuries, losing an eye and suffering a severe leg wound.

Aftermath

The victory at Singan demonstrated the strategic capabilities of the Barzani forces. Despite being outnumbered and facing a better-equipped enemy, their use of surprise tactics and advantageous terrain forced the Iranian army and its allies into retreat.

References

• Partipedia - The Battle of Singan