Part 2/11:
Neoconservative Influences and Post-Gulf War Dynamics
Following the Gulf War, the neoconservative faction within the U.S. government grew increasingly anxious about Saddam Hussein's retention of power. Figures such as Paul Wolfowitz, who served as Deputy Secretary of Defense, pushed for proactive measures to dethrone Hussein. They believed that reducing the number of dictatorships worldwide would contribute to global security. Their influence became markedly pronounced after the election of George W. Bush, as they re-entered the political fray following years of political marginalization during the Clinton administration.