Saddam Hussein's regime was characterized by a complex interplay of regional alliances, particularly in support of Palestine.
The testimonies from Al-Azzawi shed light on the internal politics of Iraq and the extreme measures taken by Saddam against dissent within his government.
The relationship between Iraq and the United States during the 1980s was marked by strategic cooperation, despite ideological differences.
Saddam Hussein's Support for Palestine: Insights from Fadhel Al-Azzawi
Former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's commitment to the Palestinian cause has been highlighted in recent testimonies by Fadhel Al-Azzawi, the former director of Iraqi intelligence. In the sixth episode of the 'Witness to the Era' program, Al-Azzawi detailed his experiences and the operations of Iraqi intelligence during his tenure. He emphasized that Saddam's support for Palestine was not merely rhetorical but involved significant financial and military aid. Al-Azzawi stated that he personally oversaw the arming of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and provided various forms of assistance, including political and media support.
The Relationship Between Iraq and Palestinian Leadership
Al-Azzawi described his close relationship with the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, noting that Arafat would often be welcomed at his farm during visits to Iraq. He portrayed Arafat as a leader under immense pressure, struggling for support from various international and regional actors. Al-Azzawi's testimony underscores the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern politics during the 1980s, particularly regarding the alliances formed in support of the Palestinian cause.
Controversial Decisions and International Relations
In addition to discussing support for Palestine, Al-Azzawi recounted controversial decisions made by Saddam, including the execution of the former Minister of Health, Riyad Ibrahim, following a cabinet meeting where Ibrahim suggested that Saddam step down to alleviate international pressure on Iraq. Furthermore, Al-Azzawi commented on the cooperation between Iraq and the United States during the Reagan administration, revealing that American intelligence sought to gain insights into Soviet military technology, which Saddam rejected, viewing it as a betrayal of his Russian allies.
