Iraq's National Flag: A Symbol of History and Identity
Evolution and Significance
The Iraqi flag, with its distinctive horizontal stripes and green Arabic inscription, has undergone several iterations throughout history. Its current design, adopted in 2008, reflects the country's post-Saddam era and its aspirations for stability and unity.
Composition and Meaning
The flag consists of three equal horizontal stripes. The top red stripe symbolizes the blood of Iraqi martyrs. The white stripe represents peace and prosperity. The bottom black stripe signifies the darkest days of Iraq's history, including the tyranny of Saddam Hussein.
The green inscription in Kufic script reads "Allahu Akbar" (God is Great), which is a common phrase found on the flags of many Arab nations. It represents the importance of Islam in Iraqi society.
Historical Background
The Iraqi flag's design has been influenced by the flags of Egypt and Syria. In 1959, Iraq joined the United Arab Republic with Egypt and Syria, and its flag adopted a design similar to the Egyptian flag. After the republic dissolved in 1961, Iraq modified the flag, adding the green inscription and changing the shade of green from turquoise to dark green.
The current flag was adopted in 2008 after a national referendum. It replaced the flag used under Saddam Hussein, which featured a red star and the name of the Ba'ath Party.
Comments