History warns of dangers when American leaders encourage uprisings overseas without taking action. George H. W. Bush in 1991 encouraged Iraqi citizens to topple Saddam Hussein. This statement had tragic and unintended consequences.
Patriot Factory Speech
Bush visited the Patriot missile factory in Massachusetts on February 15, 1991. Patriot interceptors were then thought to be a revolutionary weapon. The Gulf War had just begun, as the US, UK and allies were attacking Iraqi forces occupying Kuwait.
Iraqi Uprisings
They believed that the US would back them. Coalition did not act, resulting in thousands of deaths and others fleeing harsh conditions up north. US allies and the US launched a humanitarian effort to save Kurds. However, n.
After the Gulf War, future wars were set in motion. US bases remained there, Osama Bin Laden rose up in Saudi Arabia in opposition to foreign forces, and Al Qaeda was born.
Iran and Iran Parallels
Trump’s campaign against Iran aims at curbing its nuclear and military aspirations. Some argue that higher gas prices are worth it for the sake of security. However, war’s consequences are unpredictible. Israel’s goals are clear, such as weakening Hezbollah, and consolidating its power in the Middle East.
Risks Ahead
The removal of an established regime without a plan in place can result in sectarian conflict, civil war and extremist group growth. Iraq’s invasion of 2003 shows how power vacuums lead to long-term instabilities. Trump might find it easier to start a war than end one, particularly without a coherent strategy. Iraq teaches us the risks of not delivering on promises to support those who want to topple a government.
