Once Upon a Time in Iraq

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A closer look at the realities of war and life under Isis.

With unique personal archive from civilians and soldiers from both sides of the conflict, this series takes viewers closer to the realities of war and life under Isis than they have ever been before.

Series 1

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Once Upon a Time in Iraq: Series 1: Saddam

Saddam

BBC Two - Once Upon a Time in Iraq, Series 1, Saddam

Saddam Hussein is captured by American troops and interrogated by CIA analyst John Nixon.

When Saddam Hussein is captured by American troops, CIA analyst John Nixon is the first person to interrogate him. Saddam’s answers leave Nixon both surprised and horrified.

When Saddam Hussein is captured by coalition forces in December 2003, politicians in the White House believe this will be the turning point they need to bring democracy to Iraq. Their task is to root out the minority forces still supporting Saddam and bring security and stability to the country. John Nixon, senior analyst in the CIA, is the first to interrogate Saddam after his capture. Having been the object of Nixon's obsession for years, the brutal dictator is now face to face with him. Here is his chance to get answers to the questions that have long haunted him. Saddam’s answers, however, leave Nixon both surprised and horrified.

During the five-week interrogation, Saddam explains, 'You Americans, you don’t understand what you have done. Iraq will become the playing field for international terrorism.' Prophetic words play out in the grim reality of the years following Saddam’s execution.
 
As the Americans celebrate the capture of Saddam, a new chapter of the war begins, as sectarian differences, long controlled by the Iraqi dictator, flare up to plunge Iraq into a gruesome civil war.

Once Upon a Time in Iraq: Series 1

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Once Upon a Time in Iraq

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