True Spies: Espionage | Investigation | Crime | Murder | Detective | Politics

The Strike on Saddam | CIA

Mar 12, 2024

Former head of the CIA's Iraq Operations Group, Luis Rueda, shares insights into the plan to strike Saddam Hussein's compound, potentially stopping the war. The episode explores the intense atmosphere leading up to Operation Iraqi Freedom and the decision-making process amidst looming deadlines. Rueda reflects on the complexities of the Iraq War and his key role in managing intelligence operations during this critical time.

42:10

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Episode guests

Luis Rueda

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

The CIA's operation to strike Saddam Hussein at Dora Farms exemplifies the complexities of wartime decision-making under pressure.

The inconclusive outcome of the mission underscores the unpredictable nature of warfare and the repercussions of intelligence failures.

Deep dives

The Attempted Strike on Saddam Hussein

On March 19, 2003, a high-stakes operation to strike Saddam Hussein took place. Intelligence indicated that Saddam would be at Dora Farms in Baghdad. The CIA had to act fast due to the impending U.S. ultimatum. Despite challenges like the tight timeline and potential civilian presence, the decision was made to strike, but Saddam had left before the attack and no significant outcome was achieved.

Introduction

2min

Decision-making and Reflections on the Iraq War

3min

Inside the Career of CIA Officer Luis Rueda

6min

Behind-the-Scenes of the President's Daily Brief: Challenges and Trust

4min

The Hunt for Saddam Hussein: A High-Stakes Operation

13min

Decisive Moments in the Invasion Strategy

9min

Reflections on the Iraq Intervention and Introduction to Agent Sniper

3min

It's 2003, and the USA is on the brink of war. Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein has been issued a deadline - leave the country, or face a full American invasion. In the event of his refusal, the CIA has a plan to strike Saddam's Dora Farms compound - potentially stopping the war in its tracks.

The operation is overseen by the head of the Agency's Iraq Operations Group - Luis Rueda. In this episode of True Spies, the former CIA heavyweight shares candid insights into the fevered hours and days ahead of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

From SPYSCAPE, the HQ of secrets. A Cup And Nuzzle production. Series producer: Joe Foley. Produced by Morgan Childs. Music by Nick Ryan.

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