Iraq War Aftermath Lesson: Containment Works

This occurred to me today.

One thing we should notice in the aftermath of the Iraq War is that the Iraq containment implemented after the first Gulf War was working far better than we imagined it was.

I, and apparently some others, was sure Iraq still had some WMDs. I differed with the administration in that I believed Iraq was no threat, as the Gulf War proved that Iraqs actions would be countered to Saddams detriment. I also figured that what WMDs he had were diminished due to age, and would perhaps be used if only he were attacked, if at all. When the Iraq War began I feared they might be used against our troops, and was sure many caches would be found afterwards.

Turns out, no WMDs. No effective WMD programs, largely due to sanctions making needed equipment unavailable. Further, the Iraq war machine proved incapable of long term, high volume engagment. The result of sanctions again.

Iraq was no threat. No WMDs. No war making ability. No ability to wage aggression without being soundly countered.

In short: Containment worked.

Thoughts?