ChapterVI**********************************page 16

army became divided and a lot of deserters ensued. A group of Partisans was formed under the leadership of Nabi and Hajar.

Nabi and his followers went back inside Iran to guard the other cities along the Aras River from Russian invasion. Thinking that the area along the river may become a war front, Abbas Mirza decided to give the Soldooz Desert to the Gharapapagh's due to their large number and used it as his camp. At the same time he granted the Aghabashloo the rich and fertile lands of Miandoab.

Nabi and Hajar's partisan group consisted of one hundred and fifty expert marksmen and skilled soldiers. They fought hard and braved the worst conditions. The Russians decided to occupy the Khoda Afarin bridge so as to have Nabi and Hajar's group surrounded. On the other hand, Abbas Mirza decided to destroy the bridge. Seeing that there is no escape from the situation, the group had to make up their mind on three different solutions: one: to surrender to the Russian army ; two: attack and be killed while fighting ; three: defend the territory while thinking of a solution. Choosing the third option, Nabi and Hajar vowed to protect their country and stay beside each other until the end. They swore to each other that through hunger and danger they would be together.

Nabi and Hajar were still fighting when the treaty of Gholestan Chai was signed and implemented. This treaty assessed the border provinces of Baku, Ganjeh and Nakhjavan to Russia while Iran's borders was limited along the Aras River.

After the division, the people tried to live under the Russian government's rule. The only hope that remained for them was the partisan group led by Nabi and Hajar. This group resisted even though they were outnumbered. Due to their bravery, they were praised and became living symbols of heroism while the Russians became more authoritarian and tried to suppress their spirit.


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Soldooz Desert - the old name of Naghadeh city in West Azerbaijan