#IraqWar

[ibnabdullah]

"He who has smelled the rifle is one, he who has watched RAMBO is another" -Saddam Hussein

[benlowy]

20 years ago I was in Camp Pennsylvania on the Kuwait/Iraq border waiting for 101st Airborne to cross and enter the war. It was the middle of the night and three successive blasts woke me. My tent was burning down around me and a scud middle alert went off. At the same time a British Tornado jet crashed at the outskirts of the camp. Half naked and wearing a gas mask I ran into the night. This was what confronted me. Army Sgt Asan Akbar threw grenades into his commander’s tents and mortally wounded Maj Gregory Stone. Years later I would be walking in Arlington Cemetery during Memorial Day and randomly came across Major Stone’s tombstone. I have never understood how I ended up there. #iraqwar #iraq #oif #kia https://www.instagram.com/p/CqYb08hOdtM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[kostrubonka]

[juancarlosphotog]

20 Years Since the Invasion of Iraq - (Operation Iraqi Freedom) / 20 años desde la Invasión de Irak - (Operación Libertad Iraquí) Two decades ago I decided to venture into covering the Invasion of Iraq, I was as green as a spring grass field, but decided to go witness history, a sad part of history I may add. I had never covered a war although I had escaped a civil war which was devastating my homeland of El Salvador during the mid eighties, my only experience with a conflict was what I had witnessed as a child. So, I bought a bunch of (@ilfordimaging) Ilford HP5 B&W film borrowed an extra Nikon F90 camera from my friend and fellow photographer @yuke_73 so I could have an extra body other than my Nikon F3 HP (@nikonusa) and headed to Iraq, ended entering and covering most of the war in Kurdistan (Northern Iraq) because it was the best war to enter the country already at war, took this decision after taking advise from a couple of photographer who had covered this region before Ed Kashi (@edkashi )and Ken Light (@kenlight_photo_ ). So, this was then beginning of my career as a photographer and paved the way to one of my career interest. NOTE: A blog post about this experiment coming soon! 
#Iraq #IInvasionOfIraq #OperationIraqiFreedom #20AnniversaryIraqWar #IlfordHP5 #IraqWar #SaddamHussein #Iraqi#Freelance #EverydayIraq #NortherIraq #NorthernIraq #Conflict #MiddleEast #35mm #BlackAndWhite #BWphoto #Monochrome #FilmIsNotDeadItsFuckenExpemsive #BlackAndWhitePhotography #AnalogCamera #Analog #35mmFilm #HansLucas #Photojournalism #EverydayMiddleEast #War #JuanCarlos #2023Copyright For image licensing visit my image library www.juancarlosarchive.com or send inquiries to licensing@juancarlosphotos.com Represented by Hans Lucas @studiohanslucas (France) For image licensing visit my image library www.juancarlosarchive.com or send inquiries to licensing@juancarlosphotos.com © Juan Carlos - All Rights Reserved / Todos los Derechos Reservados (at Iraq) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqJHOcGOUQn/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[benlongoria]

10 years ago today I signed my leave form and left the Army. Eight years in. Two years and three months in combat. Countless stories. Time sure goes quick. 🫡 • | | | | #army #army #armylife #usarmy #soldier #veteran #vet #servicemembers #combatveteran #combatvet #combat #iraqwar #cavalry #cavscout #scout #cav #recon #military #militarylife (at Mosul, Iraq) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cos62uTsNnX/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[mazlizaothman]

Review of "Iraq: The Rape of a Country" by Terry Gardiner 👉 https://youtu.be/LKCWSiZbaEQ

#acikulatbuku #ulasanbuku #bookreview #iraqtherapeofacountry #terrygardiner #geopolitics #iraqwar #ulatbuku #bookworm #bookdragon

[jimfostercoc]

James Carroll, Boston Globe columnist and author of "Crusade: Chronicles of an Unjust War," reads an expert from a column he wrote in early 2003 regarding the Iraq war, and also discusses the concept of "preventive war."  The full interview from a 2004 episode of "Conversations On The Coast with Jim Foster" can be heard now wherever you get your podcasts.    

[renovatio06]

The #MortalSin: Is #JulianAssange a Traitor, sexually harrassing Narcissist or Activist? My Personal Musings on his Plea Deal and its Outcomes

Julian Assange arrives at court, image credit: Reuters Original Article: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-68282613 Hardly a topic these days that doesn’t have people up in arms and pitched against each other as if their lives depended upon it! Homo sapiens and particularly the male specimen of the species tends to display territorial behaviour quickly, i.e. defending their turf, when…

[tmarshconnors]

Tony Blair: A Paradox in Politics

After watching the BBC Documentary Blair & Brown: The New Labour Revolution you can't deny that in the realm of politics, few figures have left as indelible a mark as Tony Blair. A charismatic and dynamic leader, Blair's tenure as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007 was marked by a blend of modernization, economic prosperity, and, unfortunately, controversy. While I find myself at odds with Blair on several key issues, most notably regarding Northern Ireland and the Iraq War, one cannot deny the undeniable charm that defined his political persona.

Blair's charisma was a potent force that permeated both domestic and international politics. His eloquence and oratory skills were often cited as instrumental in winning the hearts and minds of the British public. Blair possessed a rare ability to connect with people, transcending traditional political boundaries. His communication style was polished, persuasive, and relatable, enabling him to navigate complex issues with apparent ease.

However, my disagreement with Blair on matters such as Northern Ireland and the Iraq War remains steadfast. The decision to involve Britain in the Iraq War in 2003, based on intelligence that later proved to be flawed, resulted in significant consequences and sparked widespread public dissent. Additionally, Blair's approach to the Northern Ireland peace process drew criticism for its compromises and concessions.

Despite these contentious decisions, Blair's charisma remained a powerful force. It is this enigmatic quality that allowed him to weather political storms, maintain popularity, and secure three consecutive terms as Prime Minister. Even in the face of opposition and skepticism, Blair's charm often seemed to provide a shield, deflecting some of the criticisms that might have been more damaging to a less charismatic leader.

The paradox of disagreeing with Blair on substantive policy matters while acknowledging his charisma raises questions about the nature of leadership in politics. Charisma can be a double-edged sword, as it has the potential to rally support and create a positive image, but it may also be used to mask controversial decisions or distract from substantive issues.

As I reflect on the legacy of Tony Blair, it is essential to appreciate the complexities that define political leadership. Charisma, while a captivating quality, should not overshadow a critical evaluation of policy decisions and their real-world consequences. In recognising Blair's charisma, we must also remain vigilant in holding leaders accountable for the choices they make, even when wrapped in the allure of charm.

[streetcurrencies1]

How 9/11 Was Used To Sell A War

The 9/11 attacks, a tragic and devastating event, not only shook the United States but also played a pivotal role in shaping the country's foreign policy, including the decision to wage war. Let's explore how this tragic event was leveraged to sell a war.👈

1. Immediate Response: In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, there was a profound sense of shock and anger across the nation. The desire for justice and retribution was palpable, and the U.S. government swiftly launched a global campaign to root out the perpetrators responsible for the attacks.

2. Linking 9/11 to Terrorism: The U.S. government, led by President George W. Bush, made a deliberate effort to connect the 9/11 attacks to terrorism, specifically the extremist group Al-Qaeda, led by Osama bin Laden. This linkage created a powerful narrative that framed the attacks as an act of war rather than a criminal act.

3. The War on Terror: The phrase "War on Terror" became a central theme in the government's response. The administration asserted that the United States was at war with terrorists and the states that harbored them. This framing created a sense of urgency and a mandate for military action.

4. The Invasion of Afghanistan: In October 2001, the U.S. initiated Operation Enduring Freedom, invading Afghanistan with the primary goal of toppling the Taliban regime, which had provided a safe haven for Al-Qaeda. The connection between the 9/11 attacks and the need to eliminate terrorism was a powerful selling point for this military action.

5. The Iraq Invasion: The 9/11 attacks were also used to justify the invasion of Iraq in 2003. The U.S. government asserted that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and had links to terrorism. While these claims were later disputed and proved to be inaccurate, they were instrumental in building public support for the war.

6. Political Rhetoric and Public Opinion: Key political figures frequently invoked the memory of 9/11 to garner public support for military actions. The fear of another terrorist attack and the desire to prevent future threats were powerful emotional drivers that influenced public opinion.

7. The Patriot Act and Enhanced Security Measures: The government also used the post-9/11 environment to push for legislative changes, including the passage of the Patriot Act. This legislation expanded law enforcement and surveillance powers, further emphasizing the need for a comprehensive response to the threat of terrorism.

8. Long-Term Consequences: The use of 9/11 to sell a war had profound and long-lasting consequences. The wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, initiated in response to the attacks, lasted for years and had complex geopolitical ramifications. The rhetoric surrounding these conflicts also sparked debates about civil liberties, international relations, and the role of the United States in the world.

In conclusion, the 9/11 attacks were a turning point in U.S. history, not only in terms of national security but also in the way they were used to justify military action. The emotional impact of the attacks, coupled with the fear of future terrorism, played a significant role in selling the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to the American public and the world. The consequences of these decisions continue to be debated and scrutinized to this day.

[cmanateesto]

The War in Iraq, is it truly over? Not for the American taxpayer.

[indicastudy]

Today (30th December 2006) is Execution day of #SaddamHussein. Who was former President of #Iraq later became Prisoner of War due to Defeat in Iraq war by the #USA and their allies millitary operation. Tenure - 16 July 1979 – 9 April 2003 #IndicaStudy #DailyHistory #IraqWar https://www.instagram.com/p/CmxW__jSQqu/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[hugaflower-blog]

(via https://youtube.com/watch?v=l0o2mLIU5M4&feature=share)

[juancarlosphotog]

20 Years Since the Invasion of Iraq / 20 años desde la Invasión de Irak Kirkuk, an important city and region due to its rich oil land. The Iraqi army surrendered without any resistance. In the days that followed, they were hit by a wave of violence and social instability. / Kirkuk, la ciudad y región son importante por sus ricas tierras petrolíferas. El ejército iraquí se rindió sin oponer resistencia. En los días que siguieron fueron azotados por una oleada de violencia e inestabilidad social. President George W. Bush declare war on Iraq under the pretext that Saddam Hussein was developing chemical weapons and this was a threat to world peace, as the the United States and its allies named it “WEAPONS OF MASSS DESTRUCTION” and so the invasion of the country begun under the code “OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM”. El presidente George W. Bush declaró la guerra a Irak con el pretexto de que Saddam Hussein estaba desarrollando armas químicas y esto creaba una amenaza para la paz mundial y los Estados Unidos junto a sus aliados lo denominaron "ARMAS DE DESTRUCCIÓN MASIVA", por lo que se inició la invasión del país bajo el código "OPERACIÓN LIBERTAD IRAQUÍ". 
#Iraq #IInvasionOfIraq #OperationIraqiFreedom #20AnniversaryIraqWar, IraqWar #SaddamHussein #Iraqi#Freelance #EverydayIraq #NortherIraq #NorthernIraq #Conflict #MiddleEast #35mm #BlackAndWhite #BWphoto #Monochrome #FilmIsNotDeadItsFuckenExpemsive #BlackAndWhitePhotography #AnalogCamera #Analog #35mmFilm #HansLucas #Photojournalism #EverydayMiddleEast #War #JuanCarlos #2023Copyright For image licensing visit my image library www.juancarlosarchive.com or send inquiries to licensing@juancarlosphotos.com Represented by Hans Lucas @studiohanslucas (France) For image licensing visit my image library www.juancarlosarchive.com or send inquiries to licensing@juancarlosphotos.com © Juan Carlos - All Rights Reserved / Todos los Derechos Reservados (at Iraq - Kirkuk) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqUCob4OkGJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[jimfostercoc]

David Abrams, retired veteran and author of "Fobbit," describes what a Fobbit was during the Iraq War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. This full interview from a 2012 episode of "Conversations On The Coast with Jim Foster" can be heard now wherever you get your podcasts.

[mazlizaothman]

Review of "Iraq: The Rape of a Country" by Terry Gardiner 👉 https://youtu.be/LKCWSiZbaEQ

Get this book 👉 https://invol.co/cll6yh8

#acikulatbuku #ulasanbuku #bookreview #iraqtherapeofacountry #terrygardiner #geopolitics #iraqwar #ulatbuku #bookworm #bookdragon