Saddam's Generals

Main Themes and Topics

Saddam's Generals by Kevin M. Woods delves into the military perspectives of Iraq's senior officers during the Iran-Iraq War. The book is built upon interviews with key military figures such as Major General Mizher Rashid al-Tarfa al-Ubaydi, Major General (ret) Aladdin Hussein Makki Khamas, and Lieutenant General Abid Mohammed al-Kabi, among others. This work offers an in-depth exploration of Iraq's military strategies, intelligence operations, and the experiences of its generals during one of the most protracted conflicts in the Middle East. By focusing on the Project 1946 interviews, Woods aims to shed light on the operational and strategic decisions made by Saddam Hussein's top military brass.

Writing Style and Tone

Kevin M. Woods adopts an analytical and comprehensive approach in Saddam's Generals. The tone is scholarly yet accessible, making it suitable for both academic audiences and readers with an interest in military history. The narrative is rich with firsthand accounts, which provides authenticity and depth to the discussions of military tactics and political maneuvers. Woods balances technical military details with historical context, ensuring that readers grasp the broader implications of the generals’ testimonies.

Criticism

While Saddam's Generals has been praised for its detailed insights and invaluable primary source material, some critics point out that the book can occasionally become dense due to its heavy focus on military intricacies. Readers unfamiliar with military jargon or the geopolitical climate of the 1980s Middle East might find certain sections challenging to navigate. Nonetheless, the book's thorough documentation of the interviews and its ability to humanize the Iraqi military leaders have been commended as significant contributions to the historical record.

Brief Summary

In Saddam's Generals, Kevin M. Woods presents an exploration of Iraq's military leadership during the Iran-Iraq War, drawing from interviews conducted with senior military figures. The book uncovers the strategies, challenges, and insights from within Saddam Hussein's military ranks, offering a rare perspective on the operational dynamics of the conflict. It captures the complexities of military leadership and decision-making under the pressures of prolonged warfare, revealing how Iraq's generals navigated the tumultuous period.