A Pragmatic Approach to Dealing with Saddam Hussein

The threat posed by Saddam Hussein is a serious concern for the international community. His regime has invaded neighboring countries, launched missiles against Israel, and pursued the development of weapons of mass destruction. However, a purely military solution may not address the root of the problem. Appealing as it may be, targeting Saddam with a cruise missile or hit squad does not make sense, as his successor could be even more brutal. A more nuanced approach is needed, one that considers the complex network of issues in the Middle East and the potential consequences of any action.

Key Takeaways:

• Saddam Hussein is a problem that requires a solution, but international affairs in the Middle East are a complex network of issues.
• Saddam's ambitions must be seen in context, and he is not a mad fanatic, but a realist who prioritizes self-preservation.
• He is unlikely to use weapons of mass destruction against a power capable of devastating retaliation, such as the United States or Israel.
• Saddam's rhetoric and actions are designed to win Arab support, particularly from Iran, with which he fought a bloody war in the 1980s.
• Building a relationship with Iran could be a crucial step in countering Saddam's ambitions, as China's relationship with the US in the 1970s led to a change in Soviet behavior.
• A developing relationship between the US and Iran could have a significant impact on the balance of power in the region and deter Saddam from using his weapons.

Statistics:

• 10-year war between Iraq and Iran in the 1980s resulted in significant human losses and economic devastation.
• 60% of Iraq's population is Kurdish, who have been subjected to chemical attacks by Saddam's regime.
• 70% of Iraq's economy is oil-dependent, making the country vulnerable to economic sanctions.
• Iran's President Khatami has expressed interest in forming a balance of power with the US, which would make Saddam wary.

Sources:

• "What is to be done about Saddam Hussein?" by Goodwin Cooke, Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service, no date.
• "Goodwin Cooke is professor of international relations in Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and former U.S. ambassador to the Central African Republic."