This book examines the specific roles played by the political leader, the state, and the international system in paving the way for the Gulf War (1990-91), sparked by the invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. Saddam Hussein, the state of Iraq, and the chaos following the Cold War that affected the Gulf collectively provide us with the framework needed to interpret the reasons. Saddam's personality and upbringing included unusual traits similar to what psychologists found in dictators who previously waged wars. The Iraqi state is analyzed from the starting point of its distinctive internal weaknesses, including sectarian and ethnic issues connected to the political structure. Iraq, facing a severe economic crisis resulting from the effects of the war with Iran, sought a scapegoat as expressed through its foreign policy. Finally, the void in regional power balance after the Cold War created uncertainty concerning international reactions to the potential invasion of Kuwait. This made Saddam Hussein miscalculate the possibility of international intervention against his forces.

Publishing house: Dar Al Saqi for Publishing and Distribution

Number of Pages : 236

Year of publication : 1995