How did the 2003 invasion of Iraq begin?

The 2003 invasion of Iraq began on 20th March with a series of airstrikes, followed by ground forces entering the country.

The invasion was led by the United States, with significant support from the United Kingdom, Australia, and Poland. The primary justification given for the invasion was the belief that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and posed a significant threat to international security. This belief was based on intelligence reports, although it was later found that Iraq did not have such weapons.

The initial phase of the invasion, known as "shock and awe," involved a massive aerial bombardment aimed at quickly overwhelming Iraqi defences and leadership. This was intended to demoralise Iraqi forces and minimise resistance. Following the airstrikes, coalition ground troops crossed into Iraq from Kuwait, rapidly advancing towards the capital, Baghdad.

The invasion was part of a broader strategy in the War on Terror, which began after the 11th September 2001 attacks on the United States. The US government, under President George W. Bush, argued that removing Iraqi President Saddam Hussein from power would help to stabilise the region and prevent future terrorist threats. British Prime Minister Tony Blair supported this view, despite significant opposition and protests within the UK.

As coalition forces moved through Iraq, they encountered varying levels of resistance. Some areas saw fierce fighting, while others were quickly secured. By 9th April 2003, Baghdad had fallen, and Saddam Hussein's regime effectively collapsed. However, the aftermath of the invasion saw the country descend into chaos, with widespread looting, insurgency, and sectarian violence.

The invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq remain highly controversial, with debates over the legality, morality, and long-term consequences of the intervention continuing to this day.