Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) began on March 20, 2003, when a U.S.-led coalition invaded Iraq to remove Saddam Hussein’s regime. The stated goals were to eliminate Iraq’s alleged weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), end Saddam’s support for terrorism, and establish a democratic government. The initial invasion, known as the “Shock and Awe” campaign, involved massive airstrikes followed by a rapid ground assault from Kuwait. Baghdad fell within three weeks, and Saddam’s government collapsed soon after.

Despite early success, no WMDs were found, and Iraq descended into insurgency, sectarian violence, and terrorism. U.S. and coalition forces faced intense guerrilla warfare, suicide bombings, and roadside IED attacks. Al-Qaeda in Iraq, led by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, fueled civil conflict between Sunni and Shia groups. The U.S. launched counterinsurgency efforts, rebuilding programs, and the 2007 “surge” that temporarily reduced violence.

Saddam Hussein was captured in December 2003 and executed in 2006 after trial. OIF officially ended in December 2011, when U.S. combat troops withdrew. The war toppled Saddam but left Iraq politically unstable and deeply divided, paving the way for future turmoil, including the rise of ISIS.