Historical Events tagged with "iraq"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Congress Approves Military Force Against Iraq

October 10th, 2002 22 years ago

The United States Congress makes a pivotal decision regarding military action against Iraq by approving the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002. This resolution, advocated by President George W. Bush, was aimed at addressing perceived threats posed by Iraq’s alleged weapons of mass destruction and its defiance of United Nations resolutions. The vote indicated significant congressional support for potential military action, with debates taking place in both the House of Representatives and the Senate leading up to the approval. Ultimately, this resolution set the stage for the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Iraqi Opposition Seizes Embassy in Berlin

August 20th, 2002 22 years ago

A group of Iraqis opposed to Saddam Hussein's regime seized the Iraqi embassy in Berlin for five hours. The takeover involved hostages but concluded without violence as the group released the captives and surrendered peacefully. The incident highlighted dissent against the regime among Iraqi expatriates and drew international attention.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Bush's Axis of Evil Declaration

January 29th, 2002 23 years ago

In his State of the Union address, President George W. Bush labeled Iraq, Iran, and North Korea as the 'Axis of Evil', accusing these regimes of sponsoring terror. This speech was pivotal for U.S. foreign policy as it set the stage for future military interventions and heightened tensions with these nations. The use of the term 'Axis of Evil' signaled a departure from earlier diplomatic approaches, emphasizing a more aggressive stance in combating terrorism and perceived threats to the United States.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Iraq Halts Cooperation with UN Inspectors

October 31st, 1998 26 years ago

Iraq announced its decision to stop cooperating with United Nations weapons inspectors. This declaration came amid increasing tensions over Iraq's compliance with disarmament resolutions following the Gulf War. The Iraqi government, led by President Saddam Hussein, cited grievances against the inspections as reasons for its withdrawal, claiming the inspections were intrusive and politically motivated. The announcement posed significant challenges for the international community and raised concerns about Iraq's weapons capabilities.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Turkish Forces Withdrawal from Northern Iraq

July 7th, 1997 27 years ago

Turkish Armed Forces withdrew from northern Iraq after providing support to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) during the Iraqi Kurdish Civil War. This military intervention began in 1997, aimed at countering the influence of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) by bolstering the KDP. The exit marked a significant phase in regional politics, as it impacted power dynamics among Kurdish factions and relations with Turkey.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

U.S. Aircraft Mistakenly Shoot Down Army Helicopters

April 14th, 1994 30 years ago

During Operation Provide Comfort in northern Iraq, two U.S. Air Force aircraft mistakenly shot down two U.S. Army helicopters. The incident resulted in the tragic loss of 26 personnel. This event highlighted the challenges of maintaining effective communication and coordination during complex military operations.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Coalition Air Assault Against Iraqi Defenses

January 13th, 1993 32 years ago

U.S. Air Force, Navy, RAF, and French jets targeted anti-aircraft and surface-to-air missile sites in Southern Iraq as part of Operation Southern Watch. This mission aimed to enforce the no-fly zone established after the Gulf War and to deter Iraqi hostilities against neighboring countries. The airstrikes demonstrated the coalition's resolve in maintaining regional stability and protecting U.S. interests in the Middle East.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Decisive Clash at Rumaila Oil Field

March 2nd, 1991 34 years ago

The Battle at Rumaila oil field marked a critical confrontation during the Gulf War, occurring as coalition forces advanced on Iraqi positions. It showcased the power of the U.S.-led coalition against Iraq's military. The engagement was pivotal in securing control over the oil-rich region, disrupting Iraqi forces' capabilities to retaliate. This battle culminated in a decisive victory for the coalition, largely involving U.S. Armed Forces and allied troops, who employed advanced air and ground tactics to overpower Iraqi defenses.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Uprisings Against Saddam Hussein in Iraq

March 1st, 1991 34 years ago

Following the Gulf War, Iraq saw numerous uprisings against Saddam Hussein's regime. Discontent among the Kurdish and Shia populations ignited protests and armed resistance, particularly in southern and northern Iraq. The uprising led to severe reprisals from the Iraqi military, resulting in significant casualties. An estimated 25,000 individuals, mostly civilians, lost their lives during these confrontations as the government's violent crackdown escalated. The uprisings reflected widespread anger towards the Ba'ath Party's oppressive rule, ultimately impacting regional dynamics and international relations.

Continue Reading