The Incredible Reunion of Enemy Soldiers Who Saved Each Other

This story straight out of a CBC News report feels like something from a movie. Imagine two soldiers who were once on opposite sides of a conflict finding themselves in the same waiting room twenty years after a remarkable twist of fate had intertwined their lives. Back then in the heat of battle they had each saved the other's life. It's the kind of story that makes you believe in destiny.

Twenty years ago these soldiers were in a situation where they could have been enemies. But in a moment that changed everything they chose to save each other instead of fighting. It's like a scene from a war movie except it's real life. This act of bravery and compassion created a bond between them that lasted decades even though they didn't know each other's names.

Fast forward to the present and by an incredible twist of fate they ended up in the same waiting room. You can imagine the shock the disbelief and then the joy as they recognized each other. It's like finding a long-lost friend in the most unexpected place.

This reunion is more than just a happy coincidence. It's a testament to the power of friendship and the unexpected ways life can bring people together. Their story is a reminder that sometimes our lives are connected in ways we can't even imagine. It shows that acts of kindness even in the darkest of times can create lasting bonds that transcend time and circumstance.

War Stories Across Continents

As the conflict in Ukraine escalates and draws comparisons to the Iran-Iraq War the sheer magnitude of casualties and devastation becomes evident. Amidst the chaos there are stories of compassion and humanity that transcend the boundaries of war and nationalism. One such story involves Najah Aboud an Iraqi soldier and Zahed Haftlang an Iranian medic.

Meeting on the Battlefields

Najah Aboud a conscript assigned to a tank unit found himself in the city of Khorramshahr a location captured by the Iraqis. It was there that Zahed Haftlang an Iranian medic was assigned to treat his wounded countrymen. In a twist of fate Haftlang discovered Aboud lying injured with wounds to his head back and chest.

Despite their initial fears and distrust something extraordinary happened. Haftlang stumbled upon a photograph in Aboud's breast pocket revealing his family. This small but significant detail sparked a life-altering decision for Haftlang. Against the will of his fellow Iranians Haftlang resolved to save Aboud's life.

A Perilous Journey to Safety

Haftlang faced considerable challenges as he fought to save Aboud. He had to physically protect Aboud from his comrades even enduring a blow to his face from an Iranian soldier's rifle. Against all odds Haftlang managed to transport Aboud to a field hospital where he insisted that the attending doctors provide the necessary medical care.

Although initially hesitant the doctors eventually relented and successfully saved Aboud's life. However Aboud would spend the next seventeen years in a prisoner-of-war camp unaware of what the future held for him. Haftlang visited him once during his captivity though communication was limited to gestures and a hand kiss.

Life After the War

The war took its toll on both Aboud and Haftlang. Upon Aboud's release he returned to his hometown of Basra only to find his fiancee and son gone. Meanwhile Haftlang struggled with depression and took on various violent jobs. Eventually he made a daring escape finding himself in Vancouver after a confrontation with Iranian sailors.

Haunted by the memories of war Haftlang's life spiraled into homelessness. However a stroke of luck intervened when his coworkers rescued him and recommended seeking help at a mental health crisis center. Reluctantly Haftlang followed their advice unaware that his life was about to take an astonishing turn.

A Fortuitous Encounter in the Waiting Room

In a twist of fate Haftlang found himself in a waiting room at a hospital surrounded by individuals seeking mental health support. Among them he noticed a Middle Eastern man his age. Engaging in conversation Haftlang discovered that they spoke the same language.

To his astonishment the newcomer mentioned being a former prisoner of war specifically recalling his time in Khorramshahr's bunker. Haftlang eagerly asked about a photograph of a family and upon receiving a positive response he exclaimed "I'm the soldier who cared for you!"

An Unbelievable Coincidence

The incredible coincidence of Haftlang and Aboud's reunion extended beyond the shared language and experiences. Both men had immigrated to the same country and ended up visiting the same hospital on the same day at the same time. Their joy and the emotional embrace that followed moved the hospital staff to tears as they witnessed this incredible story of former enemies turned friends.

Finding Solace in Friendship

Stripped of their families and homes Aboud and Haftlang found solace in their friendship. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that friendships can transcend borders surpassing the barriers erected by war and politics. In a world often filled with strife their relationship became the most precious thing in their lives.



The reunion of these two soldiers is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life and the enduring power of compassion. As we navigate a complex world it is essential to remember that acts of kindness and friendship can heal wounds that go far beyond the physical.

The reunion of Najah Aboud and Zahed Haftlang is like a story from a book showing us that even in the darkest times there's a chance for understanding and friendship. These two men who were once soldiers on opposite sides of a conflict have a tale that goes beyond just them. 

Imagine being in a war seeing someone as your enemy but then in an unexpected twist saving each other's lives. That's exactly what happened with Najah and Zahed. Years ago during battle they made a choice that went against all odds – they chose humanity over hatred. This choice created a bond between them that lasted through decades even though they were miles apart and from different worlds.

Their reunion is not just a happy ending; it's a powerful message. It shows us that no matter how different we think we are there's always something that can bring us together. Their story is a beacon of hope especially in today's world where conflicts and disagreements seem to be everywhere. It reminds us that underneath all the labels and sides we're all human. We all have the capacity for kindness understanding and friendship.