1983 Memo on the Use of Chemical Weapons by Saddam Hussein
1983 Memo on the Use of Chemical Weapons by Saddam Hussein Lyrics
FROM: PM - Jonathan T. Howe
SUBJECT: Iraqi Use of Chemical Weapons
We have recently received additional information confirming Iraqi use of chemical weapons. We also know that Iraq has acquired a CW production capability, primarily from Western firms, including possibly a U.S. foreign subsidiary. In keeping with our policy of seeking to halt CW use wherever it occurs, we are considering the most effective means to halt Iraqi CW use including, as a first step, a direct approach to Iraq. This would be consistent with the way we handled the initial CW use information from Southeast Asia and Afghanistan, i.e., private demarches to the Lao, Vietnamese and Soviets.
As you are aware, presently Iraq is at a disadvantage in its war of attrition with Iran. After a recent SIG meeting on the war, a discussion paper was sent to the White House for an NSC meeting (possibly Wednesday or Thursday this week), a section of which outlines a number of measures we might take to assist Iraq. At our suggestion, the issue of Iraqi CW use will be added to the agenda for this meeting.
If the NSC decides measures are to be undertaken to assist Iraq, our best present chance of influencing cessation of CW use may be in the context of informing Iraq of these measures. It is important, however, that we approach very soon in order to maintain the credibility of U.S. policy on CW, as well as to reduce or halt what now appears to be Iraq’s almost daily use of CW.
About
Drafted in 1983, this declassified secret memo offers a window into the moral chaos of Reagan’s White House during the Iran-Iraq War. Admitting in the memo that the bloody conflict was a “war of attrition” (the worst kind of war, with each side relentlessly trying to pound the other into submission), Reagan’s team would by 1985 be supporting both sides. Washington was arming the “enemy” Iranians with weapons to use against the Iraqis, while simultaneously assisting their ally Saddam Hussein with materiel, diplomatic cover and logistical support. In short, Hussein was permitted to gas both the Iranians and his own Kurdish citizens due to Washington’s cover and support.
Q&A
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning
