New Book Exposes British Military’s Role in Iraq and Afghanistan Wars

New Book Exposes British Military’s Role in Iraq and Afghanistan Wars
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A new book titled Militarizing British Democracy: The Iraq and Afghanistan Wars and the Rise of Authoritarianism by political science professor Paul Dixon of Queen Mary University of London reveals the significant influence of the British military in shaping the country’s involvement in both conflicts.

Drawing on extensive evidence, including findings from the Chilcot Inquiry into the Iraq War, Dixon argues that senior military leaders were not passive actors but actively pushed for intervention, shaped public opinion, and resisted democratic oversight.

The book highlights a so-called “military alliance,” a network comprising army leadership, political allies, civil servants, and media figures that normalized militarism and the concept of “perpetual war” in British society.

Dixon challenges the common narrative that the Iraq War was solely the decision of the Prime Minister, showing how generals pressured for greater military engagement. He stresses that understanding this military influence is essential for ensuring stronger democratic accountability in the future.

Praised by critics, the book is described by Joanna Burke of the University of London as “an exceptional history and a warning to citizens worldwide,” while author Simon Akam calls it “an important corrective” in interpreting British military interventions. The work also explores broader questions about civilian-military relations and the long-term impacts of the “war on terror” on British democracy.