Repression

Support a judgement about stability with evidence on both sides: repression and more manageable Dumas strengthened the regime, but disappointed reformers and renewed strikes exposed continuing opposition.

Explain international policy through competing interests: condemnation of repression did not necessarily mean support for overthrowing Saddam.

When explaining Iraq’s rogue-state reputation, connect specific actions—repression, weapons concerns and obstruction of inspections—to international distrust.