Iraq's 1990 Military Draft of 17-Year-Olds

Name: Iraq's 1990 Military Draft of 17-Year-Olds
Start: 1990-12-31
Location: Unspecified

The Start of a Controversial Draft

Iraq’s Military Call-Up

On December 16, 1990, Iraq announced a **military draft** that called upon **17-year-olds** to enlist in the armed forces. This decision was made amid rising tensions following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait earlier that year, which ignited widespread fear and international condemnation.

The Impacts of the Draft

By drafting young individuals, Iraq aimed to bolster its military ranks for what was shaping up to be an impending conflict with coalition forces. The enlistment of minors raised ethical concerns, as many were still in their teenage years and unprepared for the realities of war. Questions about the morality of conscripting such young people became a focal point in discussions about human rights during this period.

Consequences of the Draft

International Reactions to Iraq’s Actions

The **military draft** drew sharp criticism from the international community. Many countries condemned Iraq's policies and the mobilization of young soldiers in a potential war, particularly considering the risks involved. **UN resolutions** aimed at addressing the situation only intensified the global focus on Iraq’s military strategies.

The Response from Iraqi Families

Families across Iraq felt the impact of the draft deeply. Many parents faced the painful decision of allowing their children to serve in a conflict that was increasingly viewed as unjust. As societal structures crumbled under the pressure of war preparations, the psychological toll on families was immense, as mothers and fathers feared for the safety of their enlisted children.

Fun Fact

Iraq’s Youth in War

Did you know that many of the young soldiers drafted at this time were not only physically unprepared but also lacking in military training? This situation highlighted the devastating reality of war, where youths from various backgrounds were thrust into the roles of soldiers, centering the conversation on the effects of war on young lives.