The town of Kut was the location of a notable victory for Ottoman troops at war with British Imperialists. The town is located approximately 150 miles south of Baghdad at the bank of the river Tigris. This gave it a favorable position for defending against attackers hence it was chosen by the British as an area of strategic importance. From the 7th of December, 1915 through to the 20th of April, 1916 the British tried in vain to repeal the constant onslaught of the attacking Ottoman forces.
British leaders tried to buy out their position with offer of money for a peace deal. Aubrey Herbert and T. E. Lawrence were part of a team of officers sent to negotiate a secret deal with the attacking forces. The British offered £2 million and assured that they would not fight the Ottomans again, in exchange for the safe passage of Townshend's troops. However, the Ottoman leader, Enver Pasha made an order that this offer be rejected with no option for negotiation. The British consequently found themselves in an impossible position with dwindling supplies, a lack of manpower and little support available.
The British decided to resort for help from the Russians who were nearby. General Baratov, with his largely Cossack force of 20,000 troops was in Persia conducting operations at the time. Following the request, he considered his position and decided to assist. He advanced towards Baghdad in April 1916 but turned back when news reached him of the surrender.
General Townshend made a ceasefire a few days later and following the lack of any settlement, he simply surrendered on 29 April 1916 following a sustained attack lasting almost half a year. Approximately 14,000 soldiers survived to be made prisoners of the Ottoman Empire. Two thirds of the British and half of the Indian troops died of medical problems or at the ill treatment meted out by their captors.
It is worth noting that following the surrender of the British was a massive loss for the United Kingdom at the time. The surrender of the British was an impressive victory for the Ottomans. The siege is key moment in Iraqi-British history and has been analysed for generations since its occurrence. Modern relations between the Iraqis and the British are far more prosperous and mutually beneficial. The two countries conduct a promising and good natured diplomatic relationship which extends to all aspects of society and economy. The future between the two nations is undoubtedly bright.
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