As is often the case, national alignments can change rapidly. During the 1980s, during the Iran-Iraq war, the United States considered Saddam Hussein to be a friend and assisted him with loans. During the 1990s, however, Saddam was considered one of America's greatest enemies. | As is often the case, national alignments can change rapidly. During the 1980s, during the Iran-Iraq war, the United States considered Saddam Hussein to be a friend and assisted him with loans. During the 1990s, however, Saddam was considered one of America's greatest enemies. |