What was the U.S. stance at the onset of the Iran-Iraq War?

At the onset of the Iran-Iraq War in 1980, the United States adopted an official stance of neutrality. This approach was influenced by several factors, including the desire to avoid being drawn into a conflict between two Middle Eastern nations and the complexities of U.S. foreign relations, particularly following the Iranian Revolution in 1979, which had resulted in strained ties between the U.S. and Iran.

By remaining neutral, the U.S. aimed to protect its interests in the region and maintain relationships with key allies, including Iraq. Although the United States would later provide varying degrees of support to Iraq as the war progressed, particularly in terms of intelligence and economic assistance, this support was not formalized at the war's outset. The neutrality stance also reflected a strategic decision to let both countries engage in conflict without direct U.S. involvement while observing developments closely.