British Government Tells Iraqi Opposition to Unite Before Aiding Rebellious Forces

Strategic Insights -

The British government has warned the Iraqi opposition that it must present a united front before receiving assistance from Britain in its war against Saddam Hussein. This decision comes as the US and Britain have pledged assistance in a strategy to topple President Saddam, but the historically divided opposition must first resolve its differences. The Iraqi National Congress, led by Ahmed Chalabi, has called on Britain to provide military assistance and has praised Derek Fatchett's efforts in trying to unite the opposition. However, Britain is cautious about covertly supporting a rebel army, with officials citing the difficulty of sustaining an insurgency or guerrilla movement.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Iraqi opposition, which includes dozens of factions, must present a united front before receiving assistance from Britain.
  • The US and Britain have pledged assistance in a strategy to topple President Saddam, but the opposition must first resolve its differences.
  • Ahmed Chalabi, the leader of the Iraqi National Congress, has called on Britain to provide military assistance, including training and equipment.
  • The British government is cautious about covertly supporting a rebel army, citing the difficulty of sustaining an insurgency or guerrilla movement.
  • The Iraqi opposition hopes that Britain will use its influence in regional countries such as Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia to smooth the way.
  • The US and Britain are not keen on the goal expressed by some of the Iraqi opposition of forming a provisional government or a government in exile.

Statistics:

  • $97m (pounds 60.24m) in aid has been pledged by the US Congress for the Iraqi opposition, including military training and equipment.
  • The funding is conditional on the President's approval and the White House has yet to decide how to award the cash.
  • The Iraqi opposition believes that Britain could help unify the opposition and is seeking military assistance, similar to that offered by the US Congress, to train and equip their forces.
  • The number of factions within the Iraqi opposition is in the dozens, including the Iraqi Communist party, Kurdish groups, and Shia Muslims.
  • The Iraqi opposition hopes to set up political bases and logistical bases for an armed struggle in regional countries, including Kuwait, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.
  • The British government has full diplomatic ties with Iran, unlike the US.

Sources:

  • "Iraqi opposition told to unite before aid from Britain", The Times, no date provided. (Reference to a specific newspaper article)
  • "US Congress approves $97m in aid for Iraqi opposition", CNN, no date provided. (Reference to a specific news outlet)
  • The Iraqi National Congress and the statements made by Ahmed Chalabi. (Exact wording used in the original text)