Produced on Radio 4 on the 20th anniversary, Gordon Corera a young journalist then, reflects on the origins and legacy after of this war. This feel particularly relevant with what is happening now: Trump and regime change in Iran.
Then it was a US-led coalition invaded Iraq to overthrow Saddam Hussein. The UK was America’s main partner. For many it remains a war based on a lie.
What I remember is the marches, and the lie: Weapons of Mass Distruction, and the death of Dr David Kelly a British scientist served as a United Nations weapons inspector in Iraq. And the American false linking to 9.11
What I didn’t know was Regime change was conceived well before 9/11. Regime change was conceived by George Bush and his vice president. Unfinished business the son to finish the work of his father. After invasion of Kuwait (I was with John Fox then). Avenging an assassination attempt on his father. The Neo Conservatives were powerful and wanted to use democracy to reform the Middle East. Summer 2001 plans hatched. Personal and ideological. Vice President Chenney.
How the UK got involved, was in part the unusual chemistry between Texan Republican Bush and Labour Blaire. Common world view. I’ll be with you whatever.
Kalikellett 