In a remarkable and candid revelation, former Labour Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has disclosed the one question that continues to haunt him from members of the public: "How did you get away with it?" regarding the controversial 2003 invasion of Iraq.
The senior Labour figure, who served as Foreign Secretary from 2001 to 2006, made the startling admission during a recent interview, shedding light on the enduring public sentiment towards one of Britain's most divisive military engagements.
The Weight of Public Scrutiny
Straw revealed that two decades after the conflict, he is still regularly confronted by citizens questioning the legitimacy and aftermath of the war decision. "I'm often asked... 'how did you get away with it?'" he stated, acknowledging the persistent public skepticism surrounding the government's actions.
The Iraq War, launched alongside US forces based on intelligence about weapons of mass destruction that was later discredited, resulted in significant loss of life and regional instability. The conflict remains a deeply contentious chapter in British political history.
A Legacy of Controversy
The 2016 Chilcot Inquiry delivered a damning assessment of Britain's involvement, criticising the premature commitment to military action and flawed intelligence assessments. Straw himself faced considerable scrutiny for his role in the buildup to the conflict.
His recent comments represent one of the most frank acknowledgements from any senior Labour figure about how the war continues to resonate with the British public and shape perceptions of political accountability.
Enduring Political Repercussions
The shadow of Iraq has loomed large over British politics for nearly twenty years, affecting public trust in government intelligence and military decision-making. Straw's admission underscores how the conflict remains a touchstone for discussions about political responsibility and the consequences of military intervention.
As contemporary geopolitical challenges emerge, the lessons of Iraq continue to inform debates about British foreign policy and the necessary checks on executive power when committing the nation to armed conflict.
