Like Iran, US Had Led Regime Change In Iraq And Libya Too: Was It Effective? Explained

Last Updated:March 02, 2026, 16:30 IST

US-Israel-Iran war: What happened in Iraq and Libya after the US ensured a regime change there by toppling Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi? News18 explains

United States (US) and Israel, through their joint pre-emptive strikes in Iran on Saturday, eliminated Tehran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, thus shaking the regime. US President Donald Trump labeled the leader as “one of the most evil people in history" and stated that his death provides the “single greatest chance" for the Iranian people to take back their country.

Does it really? What happened in Iraq and Libya after the US ensured a regime change there? News18 explains.

In both Iraq and Libya, the US-led regime change achieved the immediate tactical goal of removing long-standing dictators but failed to deliver the intended long-term stability, democracy, or economic prosperity.

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Both operations swiftly toppled entrenched leaders — Saddam Hussein in 2003 and Muammar Gaddafi in 2011 — and dismantled their security apparatuses. Post-intervention, both nations suffered from governance vacuums, prolonged civil wars, and the rise of extremist groups like ISIS, say experts.

As of 2026, Iraq remains a fragile state struggling with corruption and “in-betweenness", while Libya is a fractured failed state divided between rival governments, The Statesman reported.

2003: OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM

The U.S. launched a full-scale ground invasion to topple Saddam Hussein, based on claims regarding weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and ties to terrorism.

A “shock and awe" bombing campaign followed by a massive ground invasion by U.S. and coalition forces.

Baghdad fell within weeks. Saddam Hussein was captured in December 2003, tried by an Iraqi court, and executed in 2006.

2011: OPERATION UNIFIED PROTECTOR

The intervention in Libya was characterised by “leading from behind", focusing on airpower and support for local rebels rather than a boots-on-the-ground invasion.

The U.S. and NATO enforced a No-Fly Zone and conducted airstrikes to protect civilians from Gaddafi’s forces during the Arab Spring uprisings. NATO strikes crippled Gaddafi’s military, allowing rebel forces to take Tripoli. Gaddafi was captured and killed by rebels in Sirte in October 2011.

IRAQ: A ‘FRAGILE’ RECOVERY

The US-imposed “Muhasasa" system (sectarian power-sharing) has led to chronic corruption, ineffective governance, and a lack of accountability, according to news reports.

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While major operations against ISIS ended in 2017, the country remains unstable due to the influence of independent militias (Popular Mobilization Forces) and continued regional interference from Iran and Turkey.

Iraq is heavily dependent on oil (90% of revenue), leaving it vulnerable to price fluctuations. Youth unemployment exceeds 40%, driving persistent mass protests.

LIBYA: A ‘FAILED STATE’ LEGACY

The NATO intervention lacked a post-war plan, leading to a complete state collapse that persists over a decade later.

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As of early 2026, the country remains split between the internationally recognised Government of Unity in Tripoli and the rival Government of Stability in the east.

Libya’s GDP per capita has halved between 2010 and 2021. Political deadlock over oil wealth continues to cause economic deterioration and human rights abuses against migrants and political opponents, said reports.

With Agency inputs

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