Slow Burn The Road to the Iraq War | 2. Terror
Apr 28, 2021
In the aftermath of 9/11, fear took hold as U.S. leaders raced to link Iraq to terrorism without concrete evidence. The anthrax crisis only intensified concerns, leading to widespread panic and political maneuvering within Washington. The Dark Winter simulation showcased the nation's unpreparedness for bioterrorism threats while emphasizing the psychological impact of the attacks. This tumultuous time saw a blend of paranoia and urgency, ultimately influencing the push for military action against Iraq.
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Dark Winter War Game
- In a 2001 war game, "Dark Winter," a smallpox outbreak simulation revealed the government's lack of preparedness for bioterrorism.
- The simulation's frightening realism deeply impacted Senator John Warner, highlighting the potential consequences of such an attack.
Preemptive Focus on Iraq
- Immediately after 9/11, officials sought information on Iraq's involvement, even before confirming Al-Qaeda's role.
- This suggests a pre-existing inclination to target Iraq, independent of clear evidence linking them to the attacks.
Chalabi's Opportunism
- Stranded after 9/11, Ahmed Chalabi received a request from the administration for information on Saddam's ties to extremists.
- Despite lacking such evidence, Chalabi and the INC soon promoted the idea of Saddam's involvement in the attacks.