Iraq-Iran War: A Missed Opportunity for Peace
In a revealing testimony on Al Jazeera's program "Witness to the Era," former Iraqi Intelligence Director Dr. Fadhel Al-Azzawi discusses the Iran-Iraq War, asserting that it could have been avoided. Al-Azzawi argues that Iraq was not adequately prepared for the conflict, which lasted from 1980 to 1988, leading to significant losses for the nation. He emphasizes that the decision to enter the war was solely made by Saddam Hussein, who misjudged Iran's weakened state following the 1979 revolution.
Saddam's Miscalculations and the War's Consequences
Al-Azzawi highlights that Saddam's decision-making was heavily influenced by his personal beliefs rather than the military capabilities of Iraq. He recalls a conversation with Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko, who expressed disbelief over Iraq's involvement in the war, suggesting that the major powers had decided against intervening. Al-Azzawi regrets that regional allies like Syria and Libya sided with Iran, complicating Iraq's position further.
Lessons from History: Negotiation Over Conflict
Reflecting on the broader implications of the war, Al-Azzawi suggests that the issues between Iraq and Iran could have been settled through diplomatic negotiations rather than military conflict. He draws parallels to Iraq's later invasion of Kuwait, criticizing the lack of planning and foresight that led to further regional instability. His testimony serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of diplomacy in resolving international disputes.
- Dr. Fadhel Al-Azzawi's insights provide a critical perspective on the Iran-Iraq War, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and international cooperation in conflict resolution. He notes that had Iraq sought assistance from organizations like the UN Security Council or the Arab League, the war might have been avoided altogether. Al-Azzawi's reflections on his diplomatic experiences underscore the complexities of international relations during a tumultuous period in Middle Eastern history.
