Iraq: U.S. Regime Change Efforts and Post-Saddam Governance
Abstract
Operation Iraqi Freedom accomplished a long-standing U.S. objective, the overthrow of Saddam Hussein, but replacing his regime with a stable, moderate, democratic political structure has been complicated by a persistent Sunni Muslim-led insurgency. The Bush Administration asserts that establishing democracy in Iraq will catalyze the promotion of democracy throughout the Middle East. The desired outcome would also likely prevent Iraq from becoming a sanctuary for terrorists, a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission report (Chapter 12, Section 2). On the other hand, U.S. commanders and senior intelligence officials say that Islamic militants have entered Iraq since Saddam Hussein fell, to fight what they see as a new jihad (Islamic war) against the United States. The Bush Administration asserts that U.S. policy in Iraq is now showing substantial success, demonstrated by January 30, 2005 elections that chose a National Assembly, a decline in the insurgency, and progress in building Iraq's various security forces. Plans are for votes on a permanent constitution by October 31, 2005, and for a permanent government by December 15, 2005. Others believe the insurgency is still widespread and that the Iraqi government could not stand on its own were U.S. and allied international forces to withdraw from Iraq.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 05, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA476018
Entities
People
- Kenneth Katzman
Organizations
- Library of Congress