How did the Iraq War affect the stability of the Middle East?

The Iraq War significantly destabilised the Middle East by creating power vacuums and fuelling sectarian violence.

The Iraq War, which began in 2003 with the US-led invasion to overthrow Saddam Hussein, had profound impacts on the Middle East. Saddam's removal led to a power vacuum in Iraq, which various groups sought to fill. This vacuum resulted in widespread instability and violence, as different factions, including Sunni and Shia militias, fought for control. The lack of a strong central government allowed extremist groups like Al-Qaeda in Iraq, and later ISIS, to gain a foothold, leading to further chaos and conflict.

The war also exacerbated sectarian tensions not just within Iraq but across the region. Saddam Hussein's regime, although brutal, had maintained a certain level of order. His fall led to a surge in sectarian violence between the Sunni minority, who had been in power, and the Shia majority, who sought to assert their dominance. This sectarian strife spilled over into neighbouring countries, influencing conflicts in Syria, Lebanon, and beyond.

Additionally, the war strained relations between regional powers. Iran, a Shia-majority country, saw the fall of Saddam as an opportunity to expand its influence in Iraq and the wider region. This alarmed Sunni-majority countries like Saudi Arabia, leading to a proxy conflict between these regional powers, further destabilising the Middle East.

The displacement of millions of Iraqis due to the war also had a destabilising effect. Refugees fled to neighbouring countries, putting pressure on their resources and infrastructure, and sometimes contributing to social and political tensions.

In summary, the Iraq War's impact on the Middle East was profound, leading to increased violence, sectarian conflict, and regional power struggles, all of which contributed to long-term instability in the region.