Photo: AFP/Jack Guez
Meszár Tárik
30/08/2024 06:00
From war to peace: relations between Iraq and Kuwait
On August 2, 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, triggering the Gulf War. The invasion was economically and politically motivated, as Iraq had accumulated significant debts following the Iraq-Iran war and believed that Kuwait’s oil resources could provide a solution to these problems. Since then, Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations have evolved considerably. Tensions between the two countries continued for years after the Gulf War, but following the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, the new Iraqi government began to gradually normalize relations with Kuwait. Several high-level meetings have taken place in recent years to strengthen economic and diplomatic relations. The current relations between the two countries are an important factor for the stability and development of the region and show that it is possible to establish peace and mutual cooperation even after a war.
Dealing with foreign influence: the Iraqi revolution of 1958
On July 14, 1958, a revolution broke out in Iraq, overthrowing the British-backed monarchy and proclaiming a republic. This historic event was an important milestone in Iraq’s history, as it marked the end of British impact and the restoration of Iraq’s national sovereignty. This event can be compared to the current situation in the Middle East, where many countries are trying to free themselves from foreign intervention and develop independent national policies. After the American invasion of Iraq in 2003, the desire to free the country from foreign military and political influence and to establish a stable, independent government is omnipresent.
Opening up to the outside world: the beginning of Sultan Qaboos’ rule in Oman
On July 23, 1970, Qaboos bin Said came to power in Oman after overthrowing the rule of his father Said bin Taimur in a coup. After Qaboos came to power, Oman underwent significant changes. The Sultan began to modernize the country, opened the gates to the outside world and undertook significant economic and social developments. The country’s infrastructure, healthcare and education systems have developed considerably and Oman has become an active player in international diplomacy. The example of Oman shows that political stability, openness to the outside world and economic reform can lead to significant results.
Stalling the peace process: Yitzhak Rabin and the possibility of a Palestinian state
On June 2, 1974, Yitzhak Rabin became Prime Minister of Israel. During his political career, Rabin played an important role in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. In the 1990s, negotiations between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) under Rabin’s leadership led to the Oslo Accords, which gave hope for the realization of a two-state solution. However, Rabin was assassinated in 1995 and since then the peace process has encountered considerable obstacles. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains unresolved. In recent years, violent clashes, political deadlock and mutual mistrust have further hindered the peace process. Since Rabin’s assassination, the possibility of peace has failed several times and tensions between the two sides remain. But Rabin's political legacy reminds us that peace processes are fragile and that the commitment and courage of political leaders are crucial to achieving a lasting solution.
The summer anniversary of the four historic events provides important lessons for today’s world. These events and their lessons are still relevant today and can help us understand the current geopolitical challenges and opportunities.
The author is a senior researcher at the Eurasia Center