A new study conducted by a private strategic studies group in the U.S. indicates that a U.S. attack on Iraq may prompt Baghdad to retaliate with weapons of mass destruction. Analysts at the Strategic Studies Center in Washington stated on Thursday that if Saddam Hussein feels a serious threat, he is likely to use such weapons. One researcher told Voice of America that he believes Iraq possesses chemical and biological weapons that can be mounted on over 80 missiles. However, researchers say the Iraqi army has significantly weakened over the past decade, and the U.S. could easily defeat it. He also mentioned that a plan for the future of Iraq needs to be developed.
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Iraq May Retaliate with Weapons of Mass Destruction if Attacked by the U.S. - 2002-09-13
Feb 12, 2026
February 12, 2026
1 min read
📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway
A U.S. attack on Iraq could lead to retaliation with weapons of mass destruction, according to a strategic study. Analysts warn that Saddam Hussein may resort to such measures if he perceives a serious threat, despite the weakened state of the Iraqi military. This situation raises concerns about regional stability and the implications for U.S. foreign policy.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
A U.S. attack on Iraq could provoke severe retaliatory measures, complicating regional security and U.S. foreign policy.
👥 Key Players
Saddam Hussein
MENTIONED
President of Iraq
"As the leader of Iraq, his decisions directly impact regional stability and U.S. foreign policy."
U.S. Government
MENTIONED
Foreign power considering military action
"The U.S. is a major global power whose military actions can reshape geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East."
Strategic Studies Center
MENTIONED
Research organization
"Their analysis influences public and governmental perceptions regarding military threats and strategies."
📰 What Happened
A study suggests that a U.S. attack on Iraq could provoke Saddam Hussein to use weapons of mass destruction in retaliation. Despite the weakened Iraqi military, analysts warn that the threat of such weapons remains significant.
- Iraq may possess chemical and biological weapons capable of being launched from over 80 missiles.
- The Iraqi military has been significantly weakened over the past decade.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: Iran views U.S. military actions in Iraq as a direct threat and a potential precursor to similar actions against itself.
🌍 Regional: The potential use of weapons of mass destruction by Iraq could destabilize the entire Middle East, affecting neighboring countries.
🌐 International: The situation raises concerns about U.S. military interventions and their consequences for international law and order.
📚 Background
In the early 2000s, Iraq was under scrutiny for its alleged possession of weapons of mass destruction, leading to heightened tensions with the U.S. and its allies.
U.S.-Iraq relations
Weapons of mass destruction
📡 Source:
INTERNATIONAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
The Strategic Studies Center is a research organization, but its findings may reflect prevailing U.S. government concerns.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
🌐
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%
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