The Occupation of Iraq Winning the War, Losing the Peace Ali A. Allawi

Involved for over thirty years in the politics of Iraq, Ali A. Allawi was a longtime opposition leader against the Baathist regime. In the post-Saddam years he has held important government positions and participated in crucial national decisions and events. In this book, the former Minister of Defence and Finance draws on his unique personal experience, extensive relationships with members of the main political groups and parties in Iraq, and deep understanding of the history and society of his country to answer the baffling questions that persist about its current crises. What really led the United States to invade Iraq, and why have events failed to unfold as planned?"The Occupation of Iraq" examines what the U.S. did and didn't know at the time of the invasion, the reasons for the confused and contradictory policies that were enacted, and the emergence of the Iraqi political class during the difficult transition process. The book tracks the growth of the insurgency and illuminates the complex relationships among Sunnis, Shia, and Kurds. Bringing the discussion forward to the reconfiguration of political forces in 2006, Allawi provides in these pages the clearest view to date of the modern history of Iraq and the invasion that changed its course in unpredicted ways.

 Read more about Ali Allawi, polititian, minister and author.

"'The Occupation of Iraq is a personal testimony. Allawi's criticisms are the more striking because he was not an outright opponent of the war, and certainly no supporter of the insurgency... His book should be read by everyone who wants to understand this sad affair.' Oliver Miles, The Guardian 'He has just published a book, The Occupation of Iraq, which I recommend to anyone interested in an unvarnished account of the first phase of this war and what followed.' John Dizard, The Financial Times 'The Occupation of Iraq... is by far the best account of the calamitous descent from the widespread euphoria of the early days that followed the fall of Saddam's regime to the corruption, savagery and wild incompetence that have characterised its recent history.' Marie Colvin, The Sunday Times 'News Review'"

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