It was first officially organized as the 1st Ashura Brigade () under command of Mohammad Ali Jaafari during Iran–Iraq War, just before Operation Muharram. Its units had participated in various clashes after the 1979 Revolution. The brigade was later expanded into 31st Ashura Division. It participated in various operations of the Iran–Iraq War. Its notable commander was Mehdi Bakeri After Bakeri's death in Operation Badr, Amin Shari'ati was appointed as its new commander.
