Military

Operations in Iraq:  First Reflections

Foreword by the Secretary of State for Defence

On 20 March 2003 a US-led coalition, with a substantial contribution from UK forces, began military operations against the Saddam Hussein regime in Iraq. Just 4 weeks later, the regime was removed and most of Iraq was under coalition control. The success of the military campaign owed much to the determination and professionalism of the coalition's Armed Forces and the civilians who supported them. I regret that, during the course of combat operations and subsequently, a number of Service personnel lost their lives.  Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

The UK is playing a full part in the re-building of Iraq through the establishment of conditions for a stable and law-abiding Iraqi government. This process will not be easy after years of repression and neglect by a brutal regime. Our Armed Forces are performing a vital and dangerous role by contributing to the creation of a secure environment so that normal life can be resumed, and by working in support of humanitarian organisations to help the Iraqi people.  They draw on skills honed through years of experience in peace support operations in other parts of the world.

We have already begun a thorough examination of all aspects of the operation - not just the parts that went well, but also the things we could have done better. This analysis will take time, and we will publish a full report in due course. The aim of this report is to set out an account of the operation to date, and provide some early indicators of lessons for the future.

While the search for improvement goes on, we can be justifiably proud of the UK's significant part in the successful operation to create the conditions for the disarmament of Iraq and of the achievements of our world class Armed Forces who, once again, have served our country with distinction.

  Table of Contents

  Chapter 1 - Policy Background to the Operation