This is the first comprehensive collection of materials, many previously unpublished, on the wider naval aspects of the Iran-Iraq conflict and the despatch of Western fleets to the gulf. Over 200 documents are systematically presented relating to the naval practice of Iran and Iraq and the various Western States involved. In addition materials covering the response of international organisations such as the United Nations, the European Community, NATO and the Western European Union are reproduced. A valuable central feature of the work is formed by eight detailed commentaries written by leading scholars from the countries whose state practice is considered. The work contains an Introduction by the editors presenting an overview which serves to place the materials in context. An analytical index is also provided.