| − | 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 both militarily and financially. During the 1990s, however, after invading Kuwait - and thereby threatening America's oil interests in the region - Saddam was considered one of America's greatest enemies. |
| − | Saddam was captured by America, and, after a trial, hanged on December 30, 2006. Interestingly, the name Saddam means "one who confronts". | + | Saddam was captured by America, and, after a trial beset by small inconveniences such as half the defence's legal team being murdered, hanged on December 30, 2006. Interestingly, the name Saddam means "one who confronts". |