Cruise Missile Flying Down Street In Iraq
In early 2003, the United States military launched an airstrike on Baghdad, targeting the Iraqi government and military forces. The goal was to weaken the Iraqi leadership and support a regime change in the country. However, the airstrike didn't go as planned, and a cruise missile ended up flying down a street in Baghdad, causing significant damage and loss of life.
The Controversial Incident
The incident happened on March 20, 2003, the first day of the US-led invasion of Iraq. A cruise missile, launched by a US warship in the Persian Gulf, was supposed to hit a key target in Baghdad. However, due to a technical malfunction or human error, the missile veered off course and flew down a street in the al-Mansour district of the city.
The missile hit a crowded residential area, causing significant damage to buildings and vehicles. According to some reports, as many as 14 civilians were killed in the incident, including children and women. Many others were injured or left homeless.
The incident sparked outrage and condemnation from the Iraqi government, human rights organizations, and the international community. Many criticized the US military for its reckless actions and disregard for civilian lives.
The Aftermath
After the incident, the US military issued a statement expressing regret for the loss of civilian lives and promising to investigate the incident. However, many Iraqis felt that the apology was not enough, and that the US should be held accountable for its actions.
Protests and demonstrations erupted in Baghdad and other cities, with many Iraqis demanding justice and compensation for the victims. Some also called for an end to the US occupation of their country.
The incident further fueled the anti-US sentiment in Iraq and contributed to the growing insurgency against the US military and the Iraqi government. Many Iraqis saw the incident as evidence of the US military's disregard for Iraqi lives and the country's sovereignty.
Conclusion
The cruise missile incident remains a controversial and tragic episode in the US-led invasion of Iraq. It highlights the devastating consequences of war and the importance of protecting civilian lives in armed conflicts. While the US military may have apologized for the incident, it's clear that the consequences of the invasion continue to affect the people of Iraq, even today.