What were the main goals of the US in the Iraq War?

The main goals of the US in the Iraq War were to eliminate weapons of mass destruction and remove Saddam Hussein.

The US government, led by President George W. Bush, believed that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) that posed a significant threat to global security. Intelligence reports suggested that Saddam Hussein, the Iraqi leader, was developing nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. The fear was that these weapons could be used against the US or its allies, or fall into the hands of terrorist groups. This concern was heightened by the memory of the 9/11 attacks in 2001, which had dramatically shifted US foreign policy towards a more aggressive stance on potential threats.

Another key goal was to remove Saddam Hussein from power. The US viewed his regime as brutal and oppressive, responsible for numerous human rights abuses against the Iraqi people, including the use of chemical weapons against Kurdish civilians. By toppling Hussein, the US aimed to end these abuses and promote democracy in Iraq, hoping that a democratic Iraq would serve as a model for other countries in the Middle East.

Additionally, the US sought to reduce the influence of terrorist organisations in the region. By establishing a stable and democratic government in Iraq, the US hoped to create an environment less conducive to terrorism. This was part of a broader strategy known as the "War on Terror," which aimed to combat terrorist groups like al-Qaeda.

Economic interests also played a role. Iraq has vast oil reserves, and a stable, US-friendly government in Iraq could ensure a steady supply of oil to global markets, potentially benefiting the US economy.

In summary, the US entered the Iraq War with the goals of eliminating WMDs, removing Saddam Hussein, promoting democracy, reducing terrorism, and securing economic interests.