Saddam's Strategic Play: How King Hussein Was Used Against Egypt

Saddam’s strategic maneuvers had far-reaching implications, especially in the year leading up to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. UK documents uncover the intricate web Saddam Hussein wove, using Jordan’s King Hussein as a persuasive agent against Egypt.

The Plot Thickens: Behind Closed Doors

In 1988, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was informed in no uncertain terms that King Hussein of Jordan, acting on Iraq’s behalf, urged Egypt to join a trilateral military force with Jordan and Iraq. The aim was clear: create a front in the Gulf that would serve Saddam’s ambitions. However, Mubarak saw through this attempt and remained steadfast, a decision deeply rooted in principle.

False Promises and Deceptive Arrangements

King Hussein assured Mubarak that the Gulf states supported this coalition, a claim that was soon exposed as false. This misleading maneuver was a calculated step to draw Egypt into a military alliance that would support Iraq’s regional aspirations, particularly concerning Kuwait.

Diplomatic Chess: Mubarak’s Stand

During talks with British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd, Mubarak revealed the extent of Saddam’s deception. Not only did the Iraqi leader attempt to draw Egypt into this alliance through the Arab Cooperation Council, but he also spun tales of Gulf approval to gather support. Mubarak’s retelling of these events to the UK lets us reflect on a moment of high political drama and strategic misdirection.

The Bribe that Never Was

Perhaps most striking was Saddam’s audacity. To curry favor with Egypt, he allegedly offered, through Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, to write off Egypt’s debts to Kuwait. An offer Mubarak dismissed with sarcasm, rejecting any notion of selling out Egypt’s principles and integrity.

The Climactic Standoff

Despite numerous attempts, both subtle and overt, Mubarak resisted pressure from Saddam and King Hussein, aware of the greater geopolitical implications and the necessity to maintain Egypt’s independent foreign policy. When King Hussein sought to placate Mubarak post-invasion, suggesting more time was needed for diplomatic solutions, Mubarak stood firm, aware that time was a luxury Kuwait did not have.

Final Reflections

Saddam’s machinations, uncovered in these documents, speak volumes of the political complexities that characterized Middle Eastern politics during this period. The consequences of using regional relationships as pawns in a greater game of power and influence continue to echo in our understanding of global diplomacy as revealed by these historical documents. As stated in Middle East Monitor, these revelations provide critical insights into the intricate political dance leading up to one of the late 20th century’s pivotal conflicts.