Supreme Council of the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI)
Definition
The Supreme Council of the Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), with the Arabic name al-Majlis al-Alaa li-Thawra al-Islamiyya fi’l-Iraq (المجلس الأعلى للثورة الإسلامية في العراق), is a prominent Shii resistance group established in 1982. It was founded in opposition to the regime of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and predominantly operated in southern Iraq, where the Shii population is most concentrated.
Etymology
- Arabic: المجلس الأعلى للثورة الإسلامية في العراق (al-Majlis al-
Alaa li-Thawra al-Islamiyya fi’l-Iraq) - Turkish: Irak İslam Devrimi Yüksek Konseyi
Historical Context and Objectives
SCIRI’s formation was primarily catalyzed by the oppressive measures imposed by Saddam Hussein’s regime on the Shii populace. Headed by Ayatollah Mohammad Baqir al-Hakim, the group garnered substantial support from Iran both ideologically and materially. SCIRI aimed to overthrow Saddam Hussein’s military rule and sought the establishment of a Shia’ dominated government in Iraq.
Involvement in Armed Resistance
SCIRI played a significant role in the 1991 uprisings in Iraq, triggered in part by the aftermath of Operation Desert Storm. Encouraged by the United States-backed campaigns, SCIRI’s militia, known as the Badr Brigade, took up arms in a coordinated revolt. However, Saddam Hussein’s forces brutally suppressed the revolt, resulting in the deaths and execution of many SCIRI members, fighters, and affiliated scholars.
Evolution and Modern Impact
While initially formalized as a resistance group, SCIRI has evolved over time and has been an important political player in post-Saddam Iraq. The political wing of SCIRI, which later rebranded itself as the Islamic Supreme Council of Iraq (ISCI), continues to exert influence in the Iraqi political landscape.
Further Reading
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of SCIRI’s historical significance and activities, the following books could be considered:
- “Shia Islam and Politics in the Middle East” by Payman Shojais, which provides valuable insights into Shia political movements.
- “Sectarianism in Iraq: Antagonistic Visions of Unity” by Fanar Haddad, focused on sectarian dynamics in Iraq.
- “The Shia Revival” by Vali Nasr, offering an overarching look at the Shia resurgence in global geopolitics.
Conclusion
SCIRI represents a significant chapter in the history of Shii resistance against political oppression in Iraq. Its transformation from a militant faction to a political entity underscores the complex dynamics of resistance movements and their long-term socio-political impacts.
Takeaways
- Historical Significance: Marked by opposition to Saddam Hussein’s oppressive rule.
- Geopolitical Influence: Substantial support from Iran adds a dimension of regional geopolitics.
- Evolution: Shift from armed resistance to political participation in post-Saddam Iraq.
By understanding the trajectory of SCIRI, one gains insight into the broader themes of religious resistance, inter-sectarian relationships, and the impact of international intervention in local uprisings.
