Saudi Arabia has long been wary of the threat posed by its neighbor, Iraq, particularly during the tumultuous times of the late 20th century. The fear of an Iraqi invasion loomed large in the minds of Saudi leaders, as they witnessed Iraq's aggressive actions in the region. This fear was further exacerbated by Iraq's invasion of nearby Kuwait in 1990, a move that sent shockwaves throughout the Middle East and beyond.
One of the primary reasons for Saudi Arabia's fear of an Iraqi invasion was the fact that Iraq invaded Kuwait for its vast oil reserves. Saudi Arabia, as one of the world's largest oil producers, was understandably concerned that it could be next on Iraq's list. The Saudi leadership understood the strategic importance of their oil reserves and the potential threat that Iraq posed to their sovereignty and economic stability.
Furthermore, the ongoing conflict between Iran and Iraq near the Saudi border added to the kingdom's security concerns. The Iran-Iraq War, which lasted from 1980 to 1988, was a brutal and protracted conflict that resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The proximity of this conflict to Saudi Arabia's borders heightened fears of spillover violence and instability, as well as the potential for Iraq to expand its territorial ambitions.
In addition to the threat posed by Iraq's military actions, Saudi Arabia also faced the challenge of Iraq's attacks on ships in Saudi Arabian waters. These attacks, which targeted oil tankers and other vessels, further underscored Iraq's aggressive intentions and willingness to use force to achieve its strategic objectives. The Saudi government was acutely aware of the vulnerability of its maritime assets and the need to protect its vital sea lanes from Iraqi interference.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia's close alliance with Kuwait, its neighbor and fellow member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), played a significant role in shaping its concerns about an Iraqi invasion. The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq in 1990 was a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by Iraq's expansionist policies and disregard for international norms. Saudi Arabia's decision to support Kuwait in the face of Iraqi aggression demonstrated its commitment to regional stability and security.
Overall, Saudi Arabia's fear of an Iraqi invasion was rooted in a combination of factors, including Iraq's history of aggression, its strategic interests in the region, and the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern geopolitics. The kingdom's leaders understood the need to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the potential threat posed by Iraq, while also working to strengthen regional alliances and promote stability in the Gulf.
