Iraq in search of Plan B

National security is a prerequisite for any state. For this, it may depend on its own capabilities, resort to regional alliances, or become part of international defence organisations.

The national security of a state depends on securing good relations with neighbouring countries and creating a strong deterrent to ward off external aggression.

However, in a wider sense, national security does not just mean keeping one's borders secure. The country's establishments must be protected from being infiltrated by enemies, national resources safeguarded and national secrets protected.

Upon establishing modern Iraq in the early 1920s, the founding fathers believed that striking an alliance with the United Kingdom was the best option. National security was thus bound to the will of a powerful ally, based on a long-term treaty that gave the UK rights and concessions to Iraq's wealth.

Iraq signed the Baghdad Pact in 1955, becoming part of the Central Treaty Organisation, together with other nations such as Turkey, Iran, Pakistan and the United Kingdom, which was a superpower at that time.

Iraq's national security was thus linked with that of the United Kingdom, which was a key player in a world struggle that had nothing to do with Iraq.

As time passed, Iraq's national security became closely linked to that of its rulers. This was a mistake as it limited the protection and freedoms afforded to individuals. National security was focused on protecting the ruler, his party and the government.

Despite the strength of Iraq's allies in Cento, the pact was unable to save the Iraqi monarchy from toppling as a result of the 14 July Revolution of 1958.

Iraq thus entered a new phase in its history after it abandoned the pact, taking full responsibility for its national security alone. The country remained on this track until the downfall of Saddam Hussain's regime in 2003.

Basic steps

Ensuring national security requires the formulation of a sound strategy, which must then be closely followed. The state must also prevent the loyalty of sects and ethnic groups from being weakened by foreign countries or forces that may appeal to them. This is done by protecting the national and cultural rights of all communities. The role of civil organisations is also important, as is education and the media.

Problems and disputes with neighbouring countries should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and setting up relations built on mutual interest and non-interference in the internal affairs of others.

Diplomatic channels should be used to gain allies and minimise the dangers threatening the country's security. Organisations or countries that export threats and trouble must be contained.

It is equally important to build armed forces that are loyal to the country and able to protect it against any possible external threat. At the same time, civil defence units, emergency response plans and anti-terrorism laws must be put in place.

The basic infrastructure of the country must be maintained, natural resources protected and services provided.

Another important aspect is to develop highly professional intelligence services that are active at home and abroad. It goes without saying that legislation should be put in place to secure the country's classified information and secrets.

Some of the legislation related to national security issues may clash with other laws that secure the freedoms of individuals. Some transparency may be lost, but this is inevitable — even in democratic systems.

Iraqi politicians have been busy discussing ways to rebuild a new Iraq since 2003. However, the government has not been able to ensure national security.

Today, Iraqi politicians believe that the answer lies in going back to square one, ie linking Iraq's national security to that of more powerful countries. However, it is apparent that signing security pacts with the major world power, the US, has not brought any semblance of security to the country over the last few years.

- Dr Mohammad Akef Jamal is an Iraqi writer based in Dubai.