During the months leading up to the war in Iraq, the entire world, and Americans in particular, were faced with a propaganda and disinformation onslaught. Before the war even started, certain things were beyond questioning: Saddam had a formidable war machine. His cruelty and craziness meant that he would invariably commit war crimes to slow down the Americans. Islamic terrorist networks, particularly in the United States, would perpetrate new suicide attacks.

Pentagon planners were also ready to ensure that regular life would resume as soon as the war was finished, that security and services would recommence, that infrastructure would be protected and that all political stripes would work together so Iraq would finally have a democracy.

What did not happen: There was never really a war.

Let’s be clear. There was, of course, carpet-bombing using smart bombs (even if they did lose their heads from time to time, ending up in public markets). On the ground, however, there were never really any clashes between the two armies. The reason is simple and the United States knew it — Saddam did not have an army or guerrillas or any modern equipment.

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Translation: Chad Lubelsky

Editor notes: Quebec-based commentator Gil Courtemanche’s column is published every two weeks in Le Devoir. It appears at rabble.ca with permission.Gil Courtemanche writes in French. As many of you read French, we’re offering you a chance to read Gil’s commentaries in the language in which they’re written. Please continue to let rabble know what you think of this approach.

Ce qui n’est pas arriv