The Iran-Iraq War: A Tragedy That Changed History

This very even-handed mini series gives a pretty thorough and critical in-depth look at this volatile and complex relationship that is still impacting the whole Middle East and neighbouring countries. Different perspectives and viewpoints are given and what is refreshing about this documentary is that the American (and others, like the Russians before them) are not given the white knight banner either. The usual hindsight opinions and discoveries are presented by many of those who were involved and admittedly were ignorant and/or arrogant about what they could achieve in this particular case. What is really revealing and depressing is that the underlying issues and military strategies behind that time period is being repeated again and again, albeit with other parties in the region. And as usual, proxy wars and occupations are taking place that continue to make it unlikely that this whole region will ever live in peace. With Israel, Syria, Lebanon and the ever-present Saudis playing both sides of any of these conflicts, one has to despair. The people of this region deserve better but are all dealing with despots, warmongers or self-serving royals who don't care about civilians and 'collateral damage'. A powerful indictment of the history of the region and well worth watching.