Scottish Sunday

How did Iraq get its weapons? We sold them

The US and Britain's role in arming Saddam Hussein

Reports by the US Senate's committee on banking, housing and urban affairs have revealed that the US and Britain sold Saddam Hussein the technology and materials Iraq needed to develop nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons of mass destruction. Classified US Department of Defense documents and the Senate committee's reports on 'US Chemical and Biological Warfare-Related Dual-Use Exports to Iraq' provide evidence of these sales.

A history of arms exports

The US and Britain sold various materials to Iraq, including anthrax, VX nerve gas, West Nile fever germs, botulism, germs similar to tuberculosis and pneumonia, and other dangerous bacteria. These exports continued even after Saddam Hussein ordered the gassing of the Kurdish town of Halabja in 1988.

According to Donald Riegle, then-chairman of the Senate committee, the US approved 771 export licenses between January 1985 and August 1990 which contributed to Iraq's development of chemical, biological, and missile systems. These exports included both dual-use technology and materials specifically related to weapons production.

The aftermath of the Gulf War

While the US and Britain continue to claim that Saddam Hussein still possesses chemical, biological, and nuclear capabilities, doubts have been raised by experts such as Scott Ritter, the UN's former chief weapons inspector in Iraq. Ritter asserts that the UN destroyed between 90% and 95% of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction, with the remainder likely used or destroyed during the Gulf War. He challenges the idea that Iraq could have rebuilt its stocks by now.

Ritter also highlights the lack of evidence supporting claims of Iraq's ongoing weapons production. He denies the possibility of undetected chemical and biological weapon manufacturing, as the emissions produced would have been detected by satellite surveillance. Additionally, he dismisses suggestions of Iraq's nuclear weapons capacity, pointing out that the gamma-particle atomic radiation emitted by warheads would have been detected by Western surveillance.

Doubts and allegations

Count Hans von Sponeck, former UN under-secretary general, has echoed Ritter's skepticism about the West's claims regarding Iraq's weapons program. Von Sponeck visited suspected chemical weapons plants in Iraq in 1999 and found them "comprehensively trashed." Returning to the sites in 2021, he found no evidence of resumed activity, undermining the allegations made by the US and Britain.

Hotels: Accommodating Your Stay

Choosing the perfect hotel for your trip

When planning a trip away from home, finding the right accommodation is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. With countless hotel options available, it's important to consider your needs, preferences, and budget before making a reservation.

Location

Start by considering the location of the hotel. Are you traveling for business or pleasure? If you're attending a conference or meeting, staying close to the event venue or your workplace may be convenient. For leisure travelers, proximity to popular attractions, dining options, and public transportation can greatly enhance the overall experience.

Amenities

Make a list of amenities that are important to you. Do you require a fitness center, pool, or spa? Is complimentary Wi-Fi a must? Are you traveling with pets and need pet-friendly accommodations? Prioritize your needs and compare hotel offerings to find the best fit.

Budget

Set a budget for your trip and allocate a portion of it to accommodation. Consider the duration of your stay and determine how much you're willing to spend per night. Remember to compare prices across different hotel options and book in advance to secure the best deals.

Reviews and Recommendations

Before finalizing your decision, read reviews from previous guests to get a sense of the hotel's quality and service. Websites and apps like TripAdvisor and Booking.com provide valuable insights from fellow travelers. Additionally, ask friends and family for recommendations based on their personal experiences.