The Rest Is Politics 4. Iraq, brave opposition, and powerful Chancellors
Mar 23, 2022
Rory shares his experiences from Iraq, linking the lessons learned to the current situation in Ukraine, emphasizing civilian impacts. The podcast explores sanctions on Belarus and their implications for global food security amidst geopolitical tensions. It dives into the power dynamics between Chancellors and Prime Ministers, highlighting how personal relationships affect governance. Also discussed are the psychological pressures in politics and the complex nature of party loyalty, showcasing how personal convictions can clash with party lines.
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Rory's Iraq Trip
- Rory Stewart visited Baghdad, Mosul, and Tikrit with the Halo Trust, a mine-clearing charity.
- He observed strong Iranian influence, with posters of Soleimani and militia leaders.
Iraq's Disappointment
- Iraqis feel traumatized and bewildered by the lack of progress despite vast oil wealth.
- Stewart notes the lack of lasting infrastructure built during the US occupation.
Intervention Complexity
- Western interventions often fail due to a disconnect between planners and the complex reality on the ground.
- The rise of Islamist governments in Afghanistan and Iraq highlights the difficulty of establishing liberal democracies after authoritarian rule.