Sir Trevor McDonald Reflects on Cringe-Worthy Saddam Hussein Interview Question
Legendary journalist and television presenter Sir Trevor McDonald has disclosed that a specific question he posed to Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein during a historic 1990 interview now makes him "cringe" upon reflection. The 86-year-old broadcasting icon will revisit the landmark ITN interview, originally filmed in a Baghdad palace, for a new ITV series titled Reporting History, set to premiere on ITVX and YouTube this Friday.
The Infamous Opening Question
In the forthcoming programme, Sir Trevor admits that if he were to conduct the interview again today, he would alter his opening inquiry dramatically. He began the conversation by stating, "Mr President, the invasion of a neighbouring country with such calculated force and brutality is a very un-Arab thing to do, isn't it?" Reflecting on this approach, Sir Trevor comments, "It's a particularly biting commentary to somebody like Saddam Hussein … I still cringe when I listen to it. If I had to do this again, I'd find other words."
Surprising Demeanor of a Notorious Leader
The interview occurred shortly after Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, with Sir Trevor questioning Hussein on the looming threat of war and atrocities committed by Iraqi forces. Sir Trevor expresses astonishment at Hussein's comportment during the exchange, given the dictator's infamous reputation for oppression and mass killings. "There was a flicker of an occasional smile," Sir Trevor recalls. "I never associated Saddam with smiling. He was a much smoother operator. Don't forget, this is a man who inspired such fear in the country."
Perilous Conditions Surrounding the Interview
The new series also delves into the hazardous circumstances Sir Trevor and his production team endured while travelling to the interview location. They were reportedly "roughed up" and subjected to strip searches, with moments where they were informed they might not be permitted to bring their cameras. Sir Trevor describes the atmosphere as highly unpredictable, noting, "We never knew from one moment to another what was going to happen" and emphasising that "unpredictability was the game."
Historical Context and Lasting Impact
Following the interview, Iraq faced defeat in the Gulf War of 1991, yet Saddam Hussein retained power until the US-led invasion in 2003. He was ultimately executed in 2006 at age 69. Sir Trevor conveys profound sorrow regarding the persistent divisions within Iraq today, pondering whether additional efforts in the post-war era could have altered the nation's trajectory for the better.
Where to Watch the Revelatory Episode
The episode spotlighting Sir Trevor McDonald's interview with Saddam Hussein will be accessible from Friday on ITVX and YouTube. Additionally, an extended audio discussion featuring News At Ten anchor Tom Bradby will be released as a podcast, offering further insights into this pivotal moment in journalistic history.
