The Other Gulf War: British Intervention in Iraq, 1941
Abstract
Iraqi Freedom offers not only a reprise of unfinished business from the Persian Gulf War, it is the third invasion of Iraq by Great Britain since independence in 1932. During World War II, Winston Churchill ordered his commander in chief, Middle East, General Sir Archibald Wavell, to march on Baghdad. The reason for intervention was strikingly similar to that advanced more than fifty years later: to preempt Axis support for Rashid Ali el Gailani, a violently anti-British Arab nationalist, who threatened British interests. The occupation would also strike a blow at terrorism orchestrated by a charismatic Islamic cleric. Finally, intervention would protect oil reserves vital to the war effort. Churchill forced the offensive on Wavell, who favored a diplomatic approach. The general argued against an invasion in terms that mirrored recent objections--he lacked the resources to add Iraq to a long list of military commitments. He believed intervention would make the region less secure because Iraqi antagonism was linked to Palestine. Wavell urged accepting a Turkish offer to mediate so London could take care of pressing affairs elsewhere.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA524596
Entities
People
- Douglas Porch
Organizations
- National Defense University