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Saddam Hussein Calls for Jihad Against US-Led Forces in Iraq - 2003-04-01

Feb 10, 2026 February 10, 2026 1 min read 📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway

Saddam Hussein called for jihad against US-led forces in Iraq, emphasizing the duty of the Iraqi people to resist invaders. This statement comes amid ongoing heavy airstrikes in Baghdad and the US military's advance into Najaf. The situation highlights the escalating conflict and the Iraqi leadership's call to arms.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: Saddam Hussein's call for jihad highlights the escalating conflict in Iraq and the Iraqi leadership's efforts to galvanize resistance against foreign forces.

👥 Key Players

Saddam Hussein MENTIONED
President of Iraq
"As the leader of Iraq, Saddam Hussein's calls for jihad were significant in mobilizing Iraqi resistance against foreign intervention."
US-led Coalition Forces MENTIONED
Military forces from the United States and allied nations
"Their invasion aimed to remove Saddam Hussein from power and establish a new government in Iraq, impacting regional stability."
Iraqi Minister of Information MENTIONED
Official spokesperson for the Iraqi government
"Responsible for communicating the government's messages, including calls to arms during the conflict."

📰 What Happened

Saddam Hussein called for jihad against US-led forces during a time of heavy airstrikes in Baghdad and military operations in Najaf. This statement was read by the Minister of Information, emphasizing the duty of Iraqis to resist foreign invaders.

  • Saddam's statement was made amid ongoing military actions by US-led forces.
  • Coalition forces had begun an assault on the city of Najaf following airstrikes.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: Iran viewed the US-led invasion as a threat to its influence in the region, and Saddam's call for jihad could resonate with Iranian Shiite groups opposing US presence.
🌍 Regional: The conflict had the potential to destabilize the entire Middle East, affecting neighboring countries and sectarian dynamics.
🌐 International: The US-led invasion was controversial and faced global opposition, raising questions about international law and the legitimacy of military intervention.

📚 Background

The Iraq War began in March 2003 with the goal of toppling Saddam Hussein, leading to widespread violence and instability in the region. The concept of jihad has been historically significant in mobilizing Muslim populations against perceived invaders.

Iraq War US foreign policy in the Middle East
📡 Source: STATE MEDIA
📊 Confidence: 70%
The statement was delivered through Iraqi state media, which may reflect the government's propaganda efforts rather than an unbiased account.

Saddam Hussein, the President of Iraq, in a statement read by the country's Minister of Information, called for jihad against US-led forces in Iraq. In this statement, attributed to Saddam Hussein, it is stated that jihad is the duty of the people of Iraq and those who are killed in the fight against the invaders will receive their reward in paradise. Iraqi state television had announced that Saddam Hussein would deliver a speech himself, and no explanation was provided as to why the Minister of Information read Saddam's statement. Meanwhile, Baghdad witnessed heavy airstrikes from US-led coalition forces today, and at the same time, a US Army commander stated that his soldiers had entered the war-torn city of Najaf. He told a Voice of America reporter that his forces launched an assault on Najaf early this morning following intense overnight airstrikes and are currently engaged in securing the city. Additionally, coalition fighter jets carried out at least three waves of heavy airstrikes targeting locations within Baghdad and Republican Guard positions south of the city.

🌐

Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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