"Hussein accused neighboring Kuwait in July, 1990, with flooding world oil markets, causing oil prices to decrease and threatening Iraq-s attempts to boost its war-torn economy. On Aug. 2, 1990, some 120,000 Iraqi troops invaded Kuwait, and Hussein declared its annexation." Columbia Encyclopedia Sixth Edition, 2001-2005, "Iraq," www.bartleby.com, Mar. 28, 2007
On July 25, 1990, US Ambassador to Iraq, April Glaspie, tells Saddam Hussein "I admire your extraordinary efforts to rebuild your country. I know you need funds. We understand that and our opinion is that you should have the opportunity to rebuild your country. But we have no opinion on the Arab-Arab conflicts, like your border disagreement with Kuwait." New York Times "Excerpts from Iraqi Document on Meeting with the US Envoy," Sep. 23, 1990
"Aug. 2, 1990 - The United Nations Security Council convenes an emergency session at the request of Kuwait and the United States, and votes 14-0 (with Yemen abstaining) to condemn the invasion and to demand that Iraq withdraw immediately and unconditionally [UN Resoultion 660]...
Aug. 6, 1990 - UN Security Council imposes trade embargo [UN Resolution 661] on Iraq in a 13-0 vote, with Cuba and Yemen abstaining." CNN "The Unfinished War: A Decade Since Desert Storm," www.cnn.com, Apr. 4, 2007
1990 - 1991
US Military Operations
"Regarding Iraq's actions as a threat to a vital interest of the US...President George Bush ordered warplanes and ground forces to Saudi Arabia after obtaining King Fahd's approval...
Operation Desert Shield, the US military deployment to first defend Saudi Arabia grew rapidly to become the largest American deployment since the Southeast Asia Conflict. The Gulf region was within US Central Command's (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. Eventually, 30 nations joined the military coalition arrayed against Iraq, with a further 18 countries supplying economic, humanitarian, or other type of assistance...
On 17 Jan. 1991, when it became clear that Saddam would not withdraw, Desert Shield became Desert Storm...
After a 38-day air campaign, the Desert Sabre ground offensive began with allied forces sweeping through Iraqi defenses. The Iraqi army was crushed after a mere 100 hours. Iraqi troops--tired, hungry and war-weary from six months of economic blockade and more than a month of relentless allied bombing--surrendered by the thousands." GlobalSecurity.org "Operation Desert Shield," "Operation Desert Storm," www.globalsecurity.org, Apr. 16, 2007
1991
UNSCOM and No-Fly-Zones
On Apr. 2, 1991, the UN Security Council passes UN Resolution 687 requiring Iraq to "unconditionally accept" the destruction, removal or rendering harmless all "chemical and biological weapons" and to not "acquire or develop nuclear weapons or nuclear-weapons-usable material;" creating the United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) to verify the elimination of Iraq's chemical and biological weapons programs; and mandating that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) verify elimination of Iraq's nuclear weapons program. United Nations http://daccessdds.un.org, Apr. 4, 2007
On Oct. 11, 1991, the UN Security Council passes Resolution 715 requiring Iraq to submit to UNSCOM and IAEA long-term monitoring of Iraqi WMD programs and approving detailed plans called for in UN Resolutions 687 and 707 for long-term monitoring. United Nations http://daccessdds.un.org, Apr. 4, 2007
"...[T]wo no-fly zones, one in the north and another in the south of Iraq, were unilaterally created by the US, Britain and France soon after the 1991 Gulf War. Iraq was banned from using all aircraft, including helicopters, in the air exclusion zones.
The Northern Zone was established in Apr. 1991 after Baghdad mobilised helicopter gunships to quell a Kurdish uprising." BBC "Containment: The Iraqi No-Fly Zones," http://news.bbc.co.uk, Mar. 28, 2007
Apr. 1993
Bush Assassination Attempt
"In Apr. 1993, former President George Bush visited Kuwait to commemorate the victory over Iraq in the Persian Gulf War. During Bush's visit, Kuwaiti authorities arrested 17 people allegedly involved in a plot to kill Bush using a car bomb.
The United States sent various personnel to Kuwait to investigate the alleged assassination attempt. Based on interviews of the alleged coconspirators, forensic examinations of the explosive devices, and intelligence reports, the United States Government concluded that Iraq was behind the attempted car bombing. In response, on June 26, 1993, President Clinton ordered a cruise missile strike against an Iraqi Intelligence Service (IIS) building in Baghdad."
FBI "The FBI Laboratory: An Investigation into Laboratory Practices and Alleged Misconduct in Explosives-Related and Other Cases (Apr. 1997)," www.usdoj.gov, Apr. 5, 2007
1994
Cheney "Quagmire" Comment and Saddam Hussein Becomes Prime Minister
"Q: Do you think that US or UN forces should have moved into Baghdad?
Cheney: No.
Q: Why not?
Cheney: Because if we'd gone to Baghdad we would have been all alone. There wouldn't have been anybody else with us. There would have been a US occupation of Iraq. None of the Arab forces that were willing to fight with us in Kuwait were willing to invade Iraq.
Once you got to Iraq and took it over, took down Saddam Hussein's government, then what are you going to put in its place? That's a very volatile part of the world, and if you take down the central government of Iraq, you could very easily end up seeing pieces of Iraq fly off: part of it, the Syrians would like to have to the west, part of eastern Iraq -- the Iranians would like to claim, they fought over it for eight years. In the north you've got the Kurds, and if the Kurds spin loose and join with the Kurds in Turkey, then you threaten the territorial integrity of Turkey.
It's a quagmire if you go that far and try to take over Iraq.
The other thing was casualties. Everyone was impressed with the fact we were able to do our job with as few casualties as we had. But for the 146 Americans killed in action, and for their families -- it wasn't a cheap war. And the question for the president, in terms of whether or not we went on to Baghdad, took additional casualties in an effort to get Saddam Hussein, was how many additional dead Americans is Saddam worth? Our judgment was, not very many, and I think we got it right."
Dick Cheney Interview with the American Enterprise Institute, Apr. 15, 1994
May 1994 - "President Saddam Hussein of Iraq will assume the position of Prime Minister himself, replacing Ahmed Hussein Khudayir al-Samarral, the Iraqi news agency reported today.
Citing an official Government statement...the change was necessary because United Nations sanctions imposed on Iraq after it invaded Kuwait in 1990 have damaged the country's economy, the agency said." New York Times "Iraqi Leader Assumes Post," May 30, 1994
Apr. 14, 1995
Oil-for-Food
"On 14 Apr. 1995, acting under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, the Security Council adopted resolution 986, establishing the 'oil-for-food' programme, providing Iraq with another opportunity to sell oil to finance the purchase of humanitarian goods, and various mandated United Nations activities concerning Iraq.
The programme, as established by the Security Council, is intended to be a 'temporary measure to provide for the humanitarian needs of the Iraqi people, until the fulfillment by Iraq of the relevant Security Council resolutions, including notably resolution 687 of 3 Apr. 1991.'" Office of the Iraq Programme Oil-for-Food "About the Programme," www.un.org, Mar. 28, 2007
1996
UN Resolutions and CIA Coup Attempt
"12 June 1996 - UN Resolution 1060 and Resolutions 1115, 1134, 1137, 1154, 1194, and 1205. Demands that Iraq cooperate with UNSCOM and allow inspection teams immediate, unconditional, and unrestricted access to facilities for inspection and access to Iraqi officials for interviews. UNSCR 1137 condemns Baghdad's refusal to allow entry to Iraq to UNSCOM officials on the grounds of their nationality and its threats to the safety of UN reconnaissance aircraft." CIA "Iraq's Weapons of Mass Destruction Programs," Oct. 2002
"1996 June - The CIA recruits officers within Saddam's inner circle to help in a military coup d'État. The plotters were told that the US would recognize them as Iraq's new leaders. They were given special mobile phones with direct lines to the CIA.
But Saddam was ready. A special unit of Iraqi intelligence had studied every coup of the 20th century and they penetrated this one. Saddam's agents burst into homes across Baghdad and tortured and executed hundreds of officers.
Then Saddam's agents found the CIA's phones. An Iraqi intelligence officer placed a call. A US agent answered. He was told, 'Your men are dead. Pack up and go home.'" PBS "The Long Road to War: Chronology," www.pbs.org, Mar. 29, 2007
Dec. 1998
Desert Fox
"In Dec., [1998] Saddam ends Iraqi cooperation with UNSCOM and accuses the UN of espionage. On Dec. 15, UNSCOM Chairman Richard Butler reports that the Iraqis are refusing to cooperate with inspectors and the next day, President Clinton -- on the eve of the House impeachment vote -- orders Operation Desert Fox, a four-day bombardment of key Iraqi military installations. It is conducted without UN Security Council approval." PBS "The Long Road to War: Chronology," www.pbs.org, Mar. 29, 2007
Dec. 17, 1999
UNMOVIC
On Dec. 17, 1999, the UN Security Council passes Resolution 1284 which establishes "as a subsidiary body of the Council, the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC) which replaces the Special Commission [UNSCOM]." United Nations http://daccessdds.un.org, Apr. 16, 2007
Iraq announces that United Nations weapons inspectors would not be allowed back into Iraq to reinstate a disarmament program halted on the eve of American and British air strikes in Dec. 1998. New York Times "Iraq Says It Will Not Allow UN Arms Inspectors to Return," Feb. 11, 2000
Oct.-Dec. 2000
UN and Iraqi Oil
On Oct. 30, 2000, members of the UN Security Council's Iraqi sanctions committee decide to allow Iraq to receive oil-export payments in euros, rather than dollars. CNN "UN to Let Iraq Sell Oil for Euros, Not Dollars," Oct. 30, 2000
Dec. 1, 2000, Iraq temporarily stops exporting oil, reacting to a United Nations refusal to grant Iraq control over certain oil reserves. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty "Iraq: Timeline 1991-2005," www.rferl.org, Mar. 30, 2007
Feb. 2001
Iraq Bombed
"Britain, US carry out bombing raids to try to disable Iraq's air defence network. The bombings have little international support." BBC "Timeline: Iraq," news.bbc.co.uk, Mar. 29, 2007
Nov. 26, 2001
US Threatens Iraq
President Bush states: "If anybody harbors a terrorist, they're a terrorist. If they fund a terrorist, they're a terrorist. If they house terrorists they're terrorists...If they develop weapons of mass destruction, that will be used to terrorize nations, they will be held accountable. And, as for Mr. Saddam Hussein, he needs to let inspectors back in his country to show us that he is not developing weapons of mass destruction."
George W. Bush "President Welcomes Aid Workers Rescued from Afghanistan," www.whitehouse.gov, Nov. 26, 2001
Jan. 29, 2002
"Axis of Evil"
In his 2002 State of the Union address, President Bush describes Iraq, Iran, and North Korea as the "axis of evil": "States like these, and their terrorist allies, constitute an axis of evil, arming to threaten the peace of the world....And all nations should know: America will do what is necessary to ensure our nation's security." George W. Bush Jan. 29, 2002
Mar. 28, 2002
Beirut Declaration
The Arab League holds a summit that results in a summit communique, the Beirut Declaration: "The communique calls for Iraq to comply with all relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and demands the immediate lifting of sanctions.
But it also includes an explicit rejection of military action against Iraq, warning that an attack on one Arab nation will be considered an attack on all Arab nations." Betsy Pisik "Arabs Unite on Peace Offer," Washington Times, Mar. 29, 2002
Sep. 12, 2002
President Bush at the UN
President Bush states in a speech to the General Assembly of the United Nations: "If Iraq's regime defies us again, the world must move deliberately, decisively to hold Iraq to account. We will work with the UN Security Council for the necessary resolutions. But the purposes of the United States should not be doubted. The Security Council resolutions will be enforced -- the just demands of peace and security will be met -- or action will be unavoidable." George W. Bush "President Remarks at the United Nations General Assembly," www.whitehouse.gov, Sep. 12, 2001
Oct. 10-11, 2002
US Joint Resolution
The US Senate and the US House of Representatives authorize the use of force in Iraq in Section Three of the Joint Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq:
"AUTHORIZATION. The President is authorized to use the Armed Forces of the United States as he determines to be necessary and appropriate in order to (1) defend the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq; and (2) enforce all relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions regarding Iraq." Joint Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq 36 KB Oct. 10-11, 2002
The United Nations Security Council approves Resolution 1441 giving Iraq "a final opportunity to comply with its disarmament obligations under relevant resolutions of the Council."
President Bush, in his 2003 State of the Union address, talks of disarming Iraq: "The United States will ask the UN Security Council to convene on Feb. the 5th to consider the facts of Iraq's ongoing defiance of the world...But let there be no misunderstanding: If Saddam Hussein does not fully disarm, for the safety of our people and for the peace of the world, we will lead a coalition to disarm him." George W. Bush "President Delivers 'State of the Union,'" www.whitehouse.gov, Jan. 28, 2003
Jan. 9, 2003
UN Finds No "Smoking Gun" in Iraq
Dr. Hans Blix, Executive Chairman of the UN Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC), comments that, though the weapons inspectors had not found a "smoking gun" in Iraq, there was no guarantee that prohibited weapons and activities did not exist. United Nations "Notes for Briefing the Security Council," www.un.org, Jan. 9, 2003
Feb. 5, 2003
Secretary of State Powell at UN
US Secretary of State Colin Powell addresses the UN Security Council, presenting Washington's evidence on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction and terrorism links.
A draft resolution by the US, Britain and Spain, as amended by the UK, declares that 'Iraq will have failed to take the final opportunity afforded by resolution 1441 (2002) unless, on or before Mar. 17, 2003, the [UN Security] Council concludes that Iraq has demonstrated full, unconditional, immediate and active cooperation.' Consequently the draft seeks approval for military action. The draft is withdrawn on Mar. 17, 2003 after it became clear that it would not have passed. GlobalSecurity.org "Documents Related to Iraq," www.globalpolicy.org, Apr. 16, 2007
Mar. 17, 2003
UN Withdraws Staff in Iraq; Bush Gives Saddam Warning
UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan orders all UN inspectors and support staff, humanitarian workers and UN observers along the Iraq-Kuwait border to evacuate Iraq after US threats to launch war.
After failing to secure UN authorization to use force to disarm Iraq, President Bush gives Saddam 48 hours to step down or face war. CBS News "Weapons Inspectors Leave Iraq," Mar. 18, 2003
Mar. 18, 2003
Coalition of the Willing
The US State Department names 30 countries which are prepared to be publicly associated with the US action against Iraq. There are 15 additional countries providing assistance, such as over-flight rights, but which do not want to declare support.
The coalition list includes countries which are providing troops, over-flight or basing rights, logistical support or assistance with reconstruction efforts. But the State Department admits that only a few of these countries, notably Britain and Australia, are providing any major military presence in the Gulf. Steve Schifferes "US Names 'Coalition of the Willing,'" BBC News, Mar. 18, 2003
Mar. 19, 2003
Operation Iraqi Freedom
President George W. Bush addresses the American people at 10:15 p.m. EST to announce the beginning of a "broad and concerted campaign" to disarm Iraq. The campaign is known as Operation Iraqi Freedom. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty "Iraq: Timeline 1991-2005," www.rferl.org, Apr. 6, 2007
"The US and its allies launched a massive aerial assault against Iraq...
The campaign was intended to instill 'shock and awe' among Iraq's leaders, and it was directed at hundreds of targets in Iraq, officials said." CNN "'Shock and Awe' Campaign Underway in Iraq," Mar. 22, 2003
Apr. 9, 2003
US Takes Baghdad
US-led forces take control of Baghdad. Iraqi civilians cheer on advancing US troops in a celebration of the end of Saddam Hussein's oppressive 24-year-long rule. Iraqis, aided by US Marine, topple a huge statue of Saddam in Baghdad's main square. NPR "Chronology: A Timeline of Events in the Current Iraqi Conflict," www.npr.org, Apr. 30, 2007
May 1, 2003
"Major Combat Operations in Iraq Have Ended"
After landing in a Navy S-3B Viking onto the aircraft carrier USS. Abraham Lincoln, President Bush gives a victory speech and announces that "major combat operations in Iraq have ended." Jesse Singal and Christine Lim "Victory Lap," Time.com, May 2003
May 22, 2003
Economic Sanctions End
The UN Security Council adopts resolution 1483 that ends economic sanctions in Iraq, sets out the responsibilities of the UN in Iraq, and supports the establishment of a transitional Iraqi administration. USINFO "UN Security Council Ends Economic Sanctions on Iraq," usinfo.state.gov, Apr. 30, 2007
July 13, 2003
Iraqi Governing Council
The Iraqi Governing Council, established by and served under the US-led Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA), meets for the first time in Baghdad. The 25-member governing council has the power to name ministers and approve the 2004 budget. However, L. Paul Bremer, chief US civilian administrator for Iraq, retains the last word on Iraqi affairs. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty "Iraq: Timeline 1991-2005," www.rferl.org, Apr. 6, 2007
Aug. 14, 2003
UNAMI
The UN Security Council passes Resolution 1500 establishing the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) as a one-year follow-through mission in the wake of the Oil-for-Food programme handover on 21 Nov. 2003. United Nations daccessdds.un.org, Apr. 10, 2007
Aug. 29, 2003
Mosque Bombed, Shiite Leader Killed
A massive car bomb explodes outside the Imam Ali Mosque, killing one of Shiite Islam's top clerics, Ayatollah Mohammad Baqir al-Hakim, and 124 others, is the deadliest attack in Iraq since the regime of Saddam Hussein fell. CNN "Najaf Bombing Kills Shiite Leader, Followers Say," Aug. 30, 2003
Aug.-Oct. 2003
International Organizations Bombed
On Aug. 19, 2003, a truck bomb explodes outside the UN headquarters building in Baghdad. It is one of the worst attacks on UN personnel in the organization's history.
On Oct. 27, 2003, suicide bombings target International Red Cross (ICRC) headquarters, killing 12 people. This bombing is the first suicide attack on the neutral Swiss-based ICRC in its 140-year history. CNN "Truck Bomb Kills Chief UN Envoy to Iraq," Aug. 20, 2003; BBC, "Red Cross Cuts Iraq Operations," Nov. 8, 2003
Dec. 14, 2003
Hussein Captured
American soldiers capture Saddam Hussein in a raid on an isolated farm near Tikrit. The former Iraqi president was found, haggard and disoriented but alive, hiding at the bottom of an 8-foot-deep so-called "spider hole," camouflaged with bricks and dirt and covered with polystyrene and a carpet. Susan Sachs and Kirk Semple "Ex-Leader, Found Hiding in Hole, Is Detained Without a Fight," New York Times, Dec. 14, 2003
500 US troops have been killed in the Iraq war, 346 of them in hostile situations. 361 US troops have been killed, 231 in hostile action, since President Bush declared the end of major combat operations on May 1, 2003. Alphonso Van Marsh "US: Powerful Bomb Kills 5 in Iraq," CNN, Jan. 17, 2004
Mar. 31, 2004
Fallujah: Four Contractors Killed
Four Blackwater private security contractors are ambushed and killed. Their burned bodies are dragged through the streets and then hanged from a bridge over the Euphrates River. Jeffrey Gettleman "Enraged Mob in Falluja Kills 4 American Contractors," New York Times, Mar. 31, 2004
Mar. 2004
Taguba Report on Abu Ghraib
US Army Major General Antonio Taguba authors a report, known as the "Taguba Report," that officially confirms the "numerous incidents of sadistic, blatant, and wanton criminal abuses were inflicted on several detainees" in the prisoner abuse scandal at Abu Ghraib prison near Baghdad. Taguba Report: Article 15-6 Investigation of the 800th Military Police Brigade 222 KB
Apr. 18, 2004
Spain Pulls Troops
Spain's new prime minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, prepares to pull the 1,300 Spanish troops stationed in Iraq. The previous Spanish government's support for the war, and its handling of the Madrid bombings, were thought to have caused Zapatero's electoral victory. BBC "Spain PM Orders Iraq Troops Home," Apr. 18, 2004
Apr. 2004
Abu Ghraib
A number of photographs surface which depict abuse and torture of Iraqi prisoners held in US custody at the Baghdad Central Detention Center, formerly known as Abu Ghraib Prison. This follows a Mar. 2004 announcement by the US Army that six soldiers were being investigated for allegedly abusing about 20 prisoners at the prison. GlobalSecurity.org "Abu Ghurayb Prison," www.globalpolicy.org, Apr. 30, 2007
Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr declares a unilateral cease-fire with US forces in the Baghdad district of Sadr City and offers to help police ensure safety in the area. This is a shift for al-Sadr who had previously launched an uprising throughout the Shiite heartland south of Baghdad. FOX News "Sadr's Militia Declares Cease-Fire," June 26, 2004
June 2004
Iraqi Interim Government
The United Nations endorses the reestablishment of Iraqi sovereignty and the interim constitution takes effect, with Iyad Allawi, a Shiite, as prime minister and Sheik Ghazi Ajil al-Yawar, a Sunni, as president.
Saddam Hussein and 11 other former high-ranking Iraqi officials are formally turned over to the new government and are arraigned. The Columbia Encyclopedia Sixth Edition, 2001-2005 "Iraq," www.bartleby.com, Apr. 9, 2007
Sep. 8, 2004
Over 1,000 US and 1,129 Coalition Troops Dead
The total of Americans killed in the 18-month-old war passes the 1,000 mark at 1,002. And, according to a CNN tally, 1,129 coalition troops from 15 nations have died in Iraq. Alphonso Van Marsh "US Death Toll in Iraq Passes 1,000," CNN, Sep. 18, 2004
Oct. 2004
Inconsistant Iraqi Death Count
Forty-six prominent British figures, including military men, ex-diplomats and bishops, write to Prime Minister Tony Blair urging an inquiry into civilian deaths in Iraq. The Oct. 29, 2004 Lancet study claims that nearly 100,000 died after the invasion. Other groups put the figure at 15,000. Blair says the most accurate estimate is from the Iraqi Ministry of Health - with a total of between 3,853 and 15,517 for Apr. to Oct. 2004. BBC "Demands Grow for Iraq Death Count," Dec. 8, 2004
On Nov. 8, an estimated 10,000-15,000 American troops launch Operation Phantom Fury to secure the city of Fallujah. US Military officials announce that, by Nov. 15, 38 US troops, six Iraqi soldiers and an estimated 1,200 insurgents had been killed. On Nov. 16, US military officials announce that American troops had secured Fallujah. GlobalSecurity.org "Operation al-Fajr (Dawn): Operation Phantom Fury," www.globalsecurity.org, Apr. 23, 2007
Dec. 2004
WMD Search Ends
The hunt for biological, chemical and nuclear weapons in Iraq ends nearly two years after President Bush ordered US troops to disarm Saddam Hussein.
Charles A. Duelfer, who led the weapons hunt in 2004, is back in Washington wrapping up his work. According to the CIA, he will not be replaced in Baghdad. Dafna Linzer "Search for Banned Arms In Iraq Ended Last Month," Washington Post, Jan. 12, 2005
Iraq's first competitive election in a half-century takes place, marking an historic breakthrough for the democratic principle in Iraq. 60 percent of eligible voters turn out, with the following ethnic breakdown: strong voter turnout among the Shiites and Kurds, who together comprise over 80 percent of the population, with a poorer turnout among the Sunni Arabs. Tony Karon "Making Sense of Iraq's Vote," Time.com, Jan. 31, 2005
Apr. 11, 2005
Shia and Sunni Demonstrate
Tens of thousands of supporters of Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr Mar. in Baghdad to denounce the US presence in Iraq and call for a speedy trial of Saddam Hussein on the second anniversary of his overthrow. Sunni Muslims were also urged to demonstrate: "Many of our brothers, including Sunnis, have welcomed the call and will take part," said a spokesman for al-Sadr. "We hope it's going to be one million people strong." Al Jazeera "Shia Protest Over US Presence in Iraq," Apr. 11, 2005
In the middle of increasing violence, the Iraqi parliament selects Kurdish leader Jalal Talabani as president and Ibrahim Jaafari, a Shia, as prime minister. BBC "Timeline: Iraq," http://news.bbc.co.uk, Apr. 9, 2007
May 29, 2005
Operation Lightning
In the largest anti-insurgent operation by Iraqi soldiers to date, 40,000 members of the Iraqi army and security forces launch Operation Lightning in a bid to crack down on insurgents in Baghdad. The operation is the first phase of a nationwide assault intended to put Iraqi troops on the offensive against the insurgents. Operation Lightning is vital to the new Iraqi government, as well as the US-led coalition, since its outcome could indicate whether the Iraqis are ready to take over security operations in their country. Stratfor "Iraq: The Politics of Operation Lightning," June 3, 2005
June-Oct. 2005
New Kurdistan President and Iraqi Constitution
On June 14, Iraqi Kurdistan Region, the only official region in Iraq, swears in Massoud Barzani as regional president. A draft constitution is finalized on Aug. 28 by a Shia and Kurdish bloc, but is not endorsed by Sunni representatives.
On Oct. 15, Iraqi voters approve a new constitution, which aims to create an Islamic federal democracy. BBC "Timeline: Iraq," http://news.bbc.co.uk, Apr. 9, 2007
Oct. 19, 2005
Trial of Hussein Begins
Almost two years after being captured, former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein goes on trial for crimes against humanity committed two decades ago during his reign. In the three-hour hearing, Saddam and his seven co-defendants are charged with the 1982 murder of 148 Shia men in the town of Dujail. Saddam entered a not guilty plea. PBS "Judge Delays Saddam Trial Until Nov.," Oct. 19, 2005
Oct. 2005
2,000 US Troops and 25,000 Iraqis Dead
As the US marks the 2,000th military death in Iraq, the Senate holds a minute of silence and the names of the dead are read out on the floor of the House of Representatives. President Bush has warned Americans to brace themselves for more casualties, saying no-one should underestimate the difficulties ahead. Unofficial estimates put Iraqi civilian deaths since the start of the war at about 25,000. BBC "US Death Toll in Iraq Hits 2,000," Oct. 26, 2005
Nov. 19, 2005
Haditha Killings
Eight US Marines are charged with the deaths of unarmed Iraqi civilians in the Al Anbar town of Haditha. Up to 24 Iraqi non-combatant local residents were killed by the Marines on Nov. 19 during a hunt for a roadside bomber. It is alleged that the Iraqis were massacred by Marines in retribution for an insurgent attack earlier in the day. NPR "Timeline: Iraq," http://news.bbc.co.uk, Apr. 24, 2007
Dec. 15, 2005
Vote for New Iraqi Parliament
Iraqis vote for a parliament that will choose a full-term four-year government. 275 seats are at issue with 288 competing party lists. High Sunni voter turnout and a low level of violence were significant elements of this election. John Fisher Burns "Iraq Votes," PBS "Online News Hour," Dec. 15, 2005
Shia-led United Iraqi Alliance emerges as the winner of Dec.'s parliamentary elections, but the party fails to gain an absolute majority. Months of political deadlock ends on Apr. 22 when newly re-elected President Jalal Talabani asks Shia compromise candidate Nouri al-Maliki to form a new government. BBC "Timeline: Iraq," http://news.bbc.co.uk, Apr. 9, 2007
June 7, 2006
Al-Zarqawi Killed
Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the mastermind behind hundreds of bombings, kidnappings and beheadings in Iraq, is killed by an airstrike north of Baghdad. Zarqawi's death is the most significant triumph for the US-led military coalition in Iraq since the 2003 capture of Saddam Hussein. Ellen Knickmeyer and Jonathan Finer "Insurgent Leader Al-Zarqawi Killed in Iraq," Washington Post, June 8, 2006
July 27, 2006
International Compact With Iraq
Iraq and the United Nations announce the formal launch of the International Compact With Iraq. This Compact, jointly shared by the Government of Iraq and the UN, with the support of the World Bank, will bring together the international community and multilateral organizations to help Iraq achieve its national vision. United Nations "United Nations, Iraq Jointly Announce Launch of Five-Year International Compact," Press Release, July 27, 2006
July-Aug. 2006
UN Average: 100 Iraqis Die Each Day
The number of Iraqi civilians killed in July and Aug. hits 6,599, a record-high number that is far greater than initial estimates suggest, the United Nations said. According to the UN, violent civilian deaths in July reached an unprecedented high of 3,590, an average of more than 100 a day. The Aug. toll was 3,009. Nick Wadhams "UN: Civilian Death Toll in Iraq Climbs," Associated Press, Septmber 21, 2006
Saddam Hussein is sentenced to death by hanging for crimes against humanity. Saddam shouted "God is great" as chief judge Raouf Abdul Rahman read out the court's verdict. Saddam was tried over the deaths of more than 148 Shia Muslim men in reprisal for a 1982 assassination attempt on the Iraqi leader in the town of Dujail. Guardian Unlimited "Saddam Sentenced to Hang," Nov. 5, 2006
Nov. 21, 2006
Iraq and Syria Restore Diplomatic Ties
The foreign ministers of Iraq and Syria jointly confirm at a press conference in Baghdad that their two countries have restored diplomatic ties. The two countries severed diplomatic relations 24 years ago over Syria's siding with Iran in the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq War. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty "Iraq, Syria Establish Diplomatic Relations," Nov. 21, 2006
Dec. 6, 2006
Iraq Study Group Report
A long-awaited report by the Iraq Study Group (ISG), "The Way Foward - A New Approach, paints a bleak picture of the situation in Iraq. The 10-member, bipartisan group says the situation in Iraq is "grave and deteriorating" and could provoke a slide into chaos. The report, handed to President Bush and Congress, lays out 79 recommendations to try to pull Iraq back from the brink. Jackie Northam "Iraq Study Group: US Policy 'Not Working,'" NPR, Dec. 6, 2006
[Read our News Release with a summary of the ISG report, pro and con reactions to it, and links to related information]
Dec. 30, 2006
Hussein Hanged
Saddam Hussein, the former Iraqi president, is hanged. The execution takes place shortly before 6 am (03:00 GMT) at an Iraqi miltary facility in northern Baghdad. Al Jazeera "Saddam Hanged at Dawn," Dec. 30, 2006
[Read our News Release about Hussein's execution, which includes links to details of Saddam's life, politics, and US relations.]
President Bush announces the deployment of five additional US Army brigades to Iraq to support Iraqi army operations in and around Baghdad, and two Marine brigades to Anbar province to assist in operations against al-Qaeda. With this deployment of more than 20,000 additional US forces, US troop levels in Iraq will exceed 160,000 in the next several months. USINFO "Bush Sending Additional US Forces To Support Iraqi Troops," Jan. 10, 2007; "US Developing Backup Plans if Iraq Surge Does Not Show Results," Feb. 7, 2007
A United Nations report released in Jan. claims that more than 34,000 Iraqi civilians were killed by violence during 2006. This figure surpasses official Iraqi estimates threefold. BBC "Timeline: Iraq," news.bbc.co.uk, Mar. 29, 2007
The 2007 US National Intelligece Estimate (NIE) on Iraq says that, although "the term 'civil war' does not adequately capture the complexity of the conflict in Iraq," the term "accurately describes key elements of the Iraqi conflict."
New Iraqi Oil Legislation and Iraqi Ministry Bombing
Iraq's cabinet approves draft oil legislation that will allow the government to manage the country's vast oil resources and to distribute oil revenue throughout the country.
In a severe security breach, a bomb explodes inside a government ministry in Baghdad, narrowly avoiding the assassination of, Adel Abdul Mahdi, one of Iraq's two vice presidents. Joshua Partlow and Ernesto Londono "Iraq's Cabinet Backs Contentious Oil Measure," Washington Post, Feb. 27, 2007
Mar. 27, 2007
Ba'ath Party Returns
The Iraqi government approves a draft law allowing former members of Saddam Hussein's outlawed Ba'ath Party to return to their official posts. Al Jazeera "New Iraqi Law to Lift Ban on Former Baathists," Mar. 27, 2007
A report by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) "expresses alarm about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Iraq and calls for urgent action to better protect civilians against the continuing violence." International Committee of the Red Cross "Iraq: An Ever-Worsening Crisis," Apr. 11, 2007
The US military in Baghdad start building a 12-foot-high, three-mile-long wall separating an historic Sunni enclave from Shiite neighborhoods in a radical new strategy to quell the widening sectarian violence in the area. Edward Wong and David S. Cloud "US Erects Baghdad Wall to Keep Rival Sects Apart," New York Times, Apr. 21, 2007
May 1, 2007
Bush Vetoes Withdrawal Legislation
President Bush vetoes congressional legislation (HR 1591, "US Troop Readiness, Veterans' Care, Katrina Recovery, and Iraq Accountability Appropriations Act, 2007") requiring the start of troop withdrawals from Iraq by Oct. 1, 2007. He reasons: "It makes no sense to tell the enemy when you plan to start withdrawing." New York Times "Citing Rigid' Deadline, Bush Vetoes Iraq Bill" by David Stout and Sheryl Gay Stolberg, May 1, 2007
Oct. 2007
Troop Buildup Peaks at 170,000
Troop buildup in Iraq peaks at 170,000. Associated Press "A Timeline of Iraq War, Troop Levels," Apr. 8, 2008
Aug. 29, 2007
al-Sadr Cease-Fire
Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr publicly orders his Mahdi Army militia to "freeze" operations for up to six months following a day of Shiite-against-Shiilte gunfire that killed 49 people in the holy city of Karbala. Washington Post "Sadr Orders 'Freeze' on Militia Actions" by Joshua Partlow and Saad Sarhan, Aug. 30, 2007
Dec. 17, 2007
British Transfer Control of Basra to Iraq
British forces hand over military control of the Basra Province to the Iraqi government. 4,500 British troops remain in Iraq and focus on training Iraqi forces. BBC "UK Troops Return Basra to Iraqis," Dec. 17, 2007
Dec. 31, 2007
2007 Deadliest Year
2007 was the deadliest year for American troops in Iraq. The 899 American troop deaths in 2007 surpassed 2004 when 850 US soldiers were killed. The Guardian "2007 Is America's Deadliest Year in Iraq" by Allegra Stratton, Dec. 31, 2007
Iraq's parliament unanimously passes a law allowing thousands of former Ba'ath party members to apply for reinstatement in the civil service and military. The legislation also allows pensions to be given to additional senior members still banned from public life.
The law makes a distinction between two categories of Ba'ath party officials who have been barred from state employment since 2003. Only senior party leaders who were in the top five of the party's 10 levels and who implemented the oppressive policies of Saddam's government would remain subject to the ban. Middle-ranking officials and those in the bottom five levels of the party structure would be able to resume government jobs. Al Jazeera "Iraq Eases Law Against Baathists," Jan. 13, 2008
Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr suspends Mahdi Army activities for a second six-month period. "'This extension of his Aug. 2007 pledge of honor to halt attacks is an important commitment that can broadly contribute to further improvements in security for all Iraqi citizens,' the military said in a statement, according to the AP [Associated Press]. 'It will also foster a better opportunity for national reconciliation.'" Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) "In Iraq, Al-Sadr Extends Cease-fire Order to Militia," Online NewsHour website, Feb. 22, 2008
Mar. 11, 2008
Iraq Attacks Decline
The number of enemy-initiated attacks has decreased by about two-thirds since June 2007 to early-2005 levels. The average number of daily attacks decreased from about 180 in June 2007 to about 60 in Jan. 2008, a decrease of nearly 70%. The number of attacks on Iraqi security forces and civilians also declined from June 2007 levels. "Stabilizing and Rebuilding Iraq: Actions Needed to Address Inadequate Accountability over U.S. Efforts and Investments"381 KB Government Accountability Office (GAO), Mar. 11, 2008
Mar. 24, 2008
4,000 US Troops Dead
The number of dead US soldiers in Iraq reaches 4,000. Reuters "Four U.S. Soldiers Killed in Iraq, Death Toll 4,000," Mar. 24, 2008
The US Senate confirms US Army General David Petraeus as commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM) and Army General Ray Odierno to succeed Petraeus as commander of the Multinational Force in Iraq (MNF-I). US Department of Defense (DoD),"Senate Confirms Petraeus, Odierno," Press Release, July 10, 2008
July 14, 2008
Iraq Calls for US Withdrawal Timetable
Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is quoted at an Arab ambassador reception saying that "the negotiations with the US party are continuing, and the current orientation is to reach a memorandum of understanding for the evacuation of the US forces or a memorandum of understanding for scheduling their withdrawal." Asharq Al-Awsat "Iraq Proposes Time Frame for US Withdrawal- Official," July 14, 2008
July 16, 2008
US Troop Surge Ends
The US military "surge" into Iraq that began on Jan. 10, 2007 has ended. 150,000 US troops remain, about 15,000 more than before the buildup began. Reuters "Iraq Troop Surge Ends; 150,000 Left" by Lolita C. Baldor, July 16, 2008
Nov. 27, 2008
Iraq Sets US Troop Withdrawal Date
The Iraqi Parliament passes the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) requiring all US forces to withdraw from Iraq no later than Dec. 31, 2011. Jane Arraf "America's Diminishing Role in Iraq," Christian Science Monitor, Dec. 2, 2008
Oversight Agency Cites "Massive Waste" in Reconstruction
A draft report is released by the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction (SIGIR) that analyzes reconstruction efforts in Iraq. Analyses include "turbulence engendered by persistent personnel turnover at every level" and "waste wrought by inadequate contracting and contract management practices."
US forces in Iraq hand over control of Baghdad's Green Zone, including Saddam Hussein's presidential palace, to the Iraqi government. This event is the first to mark the implementation of Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed by the US and Iraq on Nov. 27, 2008.
During the handover ceremony, an Iraqi flag was raised over the presidential palace for the first time since the beginning of the conflict. Edward Yeranian "US Hands Over Green Zone Authority to Iraq," VOANews.com, Jan. 1, 2009
The largest and one of the most expensive, US embassies ever built opens in Baghdad, Iraq. Originally estimated to cost $592 million, the final tally for construction was $736 million. The embassy has over 20 buildings and houses over 1,200 employees on 104 acres, 10 times bigger than the UN complex in New York. The fortress-like compound was built with high security in mind and is surrounded by concrete walls topped with razor wires. Campbell Robertson "New U.S. Embassy Dedicated in Baghdad as Bombs Explode Elsewhere," New York Times, Jan. 5, 2009
Jan. 31, 2009
Iraq Holds First Nationwide Elections Since 2005
Iraq held its first nationwide elections since Jan. 30, 2005. Voters cast ballots in provincial elections that included about 400 different parties with more than 14,000 candidates seeking 440 empty seats. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's Dawa Party scored a sweeping victory.
With a 51% voter turnout, election day was reported to be peaceful and smooth. Sunni participation increased at 40%, up from the 2% Sunni turnout due to a Sunni boycott of elections in 2005. Kate Stanton "Provinicial Elections Test Iraq's Move Towards Democracy," "Online NewsHour," Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) website, Feb. 3, 2009
Feb. 27, 2009
Obama Announces End of Combat Mission in Iraq by Aug. 31, 2010
President Barack Obama announces that "by August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end." His plan includes withdrawing most of the 42,000 troops in Iraq by the summer of 2010. Between 35,000-50,000 troops will stay in Iraq to train and advise Iraqi security forces, hunt terrorist cells, and protect American civilian and military personnel. These "transitional forces" will leave by 2011 in accordance with the Status of Forces Agreement signed on Nov. 27, 2008. Peter Baker "With Pledges to Troops and Iraqis, Obama Details Pullout," New York Times, Feb. 27, 2009
British troops end six years of combat operations with the lowering of a British regimental flag to mark the handover to US forces in Basra and a memorial ceremony for the 179 UK troops who died during the conflict. The majority of Britain's 3,700 troops will leave Iraq by the end of May 2009. Around 400 troops will stay to help train naval officers and assist with patrols around oil platforms. Michael Settle "Brown Hails 'Success' as UK Soldiers Withdraw," The Herald, May 1, 2009
Iraq Declares a National Holiday as US Troops Withdraw
"U.S. combat troops, under agreement with the Iraqi government [Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA)], abandoned the country’s cities today amid public celebrations and private concerns over Iraq’s future security.
The government declared today a national holiday and official cars were decorated with streamers and flowers... In a televised ceremony in Baghdad, Prime Minister Nuri al- Maliki guaranteed the government could keep its citizens safe. 'Those who think that Iraqis are not able to protect their country and that the withdrawal of foreign forces will create a security vacuum are making a big mistake...'
The American pullout is a step toward a complete U.S. withdrawal from all of Iraq at the end of 2011. The schedule was set under an agreement reached last November between the Bush administration and the Iraqi al-Maliki’s government. President Barack Obama wants to reduce U.S. troop strength in Iraq, currently at 131,000, to no more than 50,000 by August, 2010."
Iraqi police celebrate withdrawal of US troops from Basra on June 30, 2009. Source: www.nytimes.com
Daniel Williams "U.S. Combat Troops Exit Iraqi Cities Amid Celebration," Bloomberg.com, June 30, 2009
"Iraq will auction off eight giant oil and gas fields... in its first major tender since 2003, giving oil firms a foothold in a country that may hold some of the world's largest untapped energy reserves.
Private jets flew representatives from leading global firms like Exxon Mobil and Total into Baghdad, a city still ringed by blast walls and gripped by violence, to place their bids for the 20-year development contracts.
The companies are wading into a morass of controversy surrounding the deals, which some Iraqi lawmakers condemn as illegal and which even some within the state-run oil industry have criticised for selling Iraq's vast oil wealth short.
Over six years after Saddam Hussein's ouster was supposed to unleash Iraq's oil potential, the auction marks the first real centre-stage moment for the Oil Ministry, under growing pressure to boost disappointing output around 2.4 million barrels a day.
Iraq has proven oil reserves of 115 billion barrels, the world's third largest, but the true amount of black gold sitting beneath Iraq's desolate deserts could be far greater...
Firms from the countries that launched the 2003 invasion, which triggered years of chaos and bloodshed, will be neither favoured nor disadvantaged, [Iraqi officials] say." Missy Ryan "Iraq Launches Historic Oil and Gas Auction," guardian.co.uk, June 29, 2009
"Iraq Says It Will Not Allow UN Arms Inspectors to Return," Feb. 11, 2000
Oct. 10-11, 2002
