Twenty years ago, when confronted with the reality of the US-led invasion, there were hopes that the removal of Saddam Hussein would lead to Iraq realising its vast potential.
During the first few months after March 2003, with the American occupation under way, upheaval and chaos mixed with the newfound freedoms of expression and movement.
It led many to say that time would tell whether the war was a bitter but necessary pill for a better future. But the 20 intervening years have not given us a clear answer.
In this episode, host Mina Al-Oraibi explores how the US-led invasion has changed Iraq and Iraqis with Fanar Haddad, assistant professor of Arab Studies at the University of Copenhagen; Miina Ali, a certified language trainer in Iraq; and Ali Al Shouk, senior reporter at The National.
This episode was produced by Doaa Farid, editing and sound design by Arthur Eddyson, music by Naseer Shamma.
Also in this series:
Episode 2: ‘My father was taken from us’
Episode 3: ‘A new world order’
Episode 4: ‘Young people are the hope’
The specs
Engine: 3.0-litre flat-six twin-turbocharged
Transmission: eight-speed PDK automatic
Power: 445bhp
Torque: 530Nm
Price: Dh474,600
On Sale: Now
Zayed Sustainability Prize
Black Panther
Dir: Ryan Coogler
Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Michael B Jordan, Lupita Nyong'o
Five stars
MATCH INFO
Uefa Champions League semi-finals, first leg
Liverpool v Roma
When: April 24, 10.45pm kick-off (UAE)
Where: Anfield, Liverpool
Live: BeIN Sports HD
Second leg: May 2, Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Racecard
6pm: Al Maktoum Challenge Round 2 Group 1 (PA) $55,000+(Dirt) 1,900m
6.35pm: Oud Metha Stakes Rated Conditions (TB) $60,000+(D) 1,200m
7.10pm: Jumeirah Classic Listed (TB)+$150,000 (Turf) 1,600m
7.45pm: Firebreak Stakes Group 3 (TB) $150,000 (D) 1,600m
8.20pm:+Al Maktoum Challenge Round 2 Group 2 (TB) $350,000+(D) 1,900m
8.55pm: Al Bastakiya Trial Conditions (TB) $60,000+(D) 1,900m
9.30pm:+Balanchine Group 2 (TB) $180,000+(T) 1,800m
Teams in the EHL
White Bears, Al Ain Theebs, Dubai Mighty Camels, Abu Dhabi Storms, Abu Dhabi Scorpions and Vipers