Final answer:
The efforts to end the war between Iran and Iraq included a ceasefire arranged by the United Nations, but peace ultimately failed due to unresolved border disputes, ethnic and religious differences, and geopolitical interests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The efforts made toward bringing an end to the war between Iran and Iraq were primarily through a ceasefire arranged by the United Nations in August 1988. This ceasefire resulted in no real gains by either side. The United States provided economic and technological support to Iraq during the war, while simultaneously fearing an Iranian victory would be contrary to their strategic interests in the Middle East.
However, peace failed due to several reasons. One factor was the long-standing border disputes between Iran and Iraq, which remained unresolved. Additionally, the deep ethnic and religious differences between the two nations, with Iran being predominantly Persian and Shia Muslim, and Iraq being Arab and Sunni Muslim, fueled the conflict. Lastly, the geopolitical interests of world powers in the region, including the United States, further complicated the efforts for peace.