'The Iran-Iraq War was the main reason for tension in the Gulf in 1990.' How far do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer. - AQA - GCSE History - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 1

The Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) was undoubtedly a critical event that affected regional dynamics. The war exemplified and intensified long-standing religious and political divisions between Sunni and Shia states. Additionally, the aftermath of the war left Iraq economically weakened and politically unstable, which led to aggression in its foreign policy, particularly towards Kuwait. The war can be seen as a symptom of broader tensions, highlighting the ambitions of both Saddam Hussein and the Iranian regime.

However, attributing the tension in the Gulf solely to the Iran-Iraq War overlooks other vital factors. For instance, the role of Western intervention in the region must be considered. The United States and its allies were heavily involved in Middle Eastern geopolitics, particularly concerning oil resources. The demand for oil and the strategic interests of Western nations played a significant role in exacerbating tensions. Furthermore, ongoing disputes between Iraq and Kuwait over oil fields added to the strain leading up to the Gulf War.

In conclusion, while the Iran-Iraq War was a significant factor in the tensions leading to the Gulf crisis in 1990, it was not the sole reason. A comprehensive assessment must include the long-term effects of the war, the interplay of regional politics, and the impact of Western intervention. Therefore, I would argue that the statement is too simplistic; multiple elements contributed to the situation in the Gulf at that time.