8. Launched in March 2003, this was a military campaign to overthrow the regime of Saddam Hussein in Iraq. The Bush administration justified the operation by alleging that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and posed a threat to international security, though WMDs were never found. The operation led to the rapid defeat of the Iraqi army, the capture and eventual execution of Saddam Hussein, but resulted in a prolonged period of insurgency, sectarian violence, and the rise of extremist groups like ISIS. Operation Desert Storm Freedom Operation Desert Shield Operation Iraqi Freedom Operation Enduring Freedom

The military campaign you’re referring to is called Operation Iraqi Freedom. This operation marked a significant moment in U.S. foreign policy and military strategy, shaped by the post-9/11 context. Although the initial intent was to remove Saddam Hussein and promote democracy in Iraq, the aftermath saw a surge in violence and instability that posed complex challenges for both Iraq and the international community. Although it started with a swift military success, the real-world application of Operation Iraqi Freedom has left scholars and policymakers grappling with critical lessons. The importance of understanding the socio-political dynamics of the region, creating effective post-conflict reconstruction strategies, and the potential pitfalls of intervention have become essential topics in discussions about modern military engagements and foreign policy.