The world owes military assistance to the people of Iran. In the 1970s, the Dhofar rebels, supported by the Soviet Union, were attempting to seize Oman. The Shah responded positively to Sultan Qaboos's request for help, and the Imperial Army of Iran sacrificed 700 martyrs over three years to prevent the rise of communism in the Persian Gulf. This action by Shahanshah Aryamehr is considered a historic favor to the countries in the region. The reception by the Omanis with the national flag of Iran and the slogan 'Marhaban Marhaban Shah Iran' as well as the announcement of the victory of the Imperial Army of Iran against the communists is evidence of this support.