Meaning: Clare Short, a British politician who served as the Secretary of State for International Development in the early 2000s, made this statement in the context of the Iraq War and its aftermath. Her quote reflects the widespread concern and frustration regarding the situation in the Middle East at that time. Let's delve deeper into the complexities of her statement and the historical context surrounding it.

The quote suggests that there is a heightened level of anger and frustration in the Middle East. This sentiment can be attributed to various factors, including the ongoing conflicts, geopolitical tensions, and the impact of external interventions. The region has been plagued by long-standing political, social, and religious divisions, which have often led to instability and violence.

The reference to "the sort of deceit on the route to war" alludes to the controversial circumstances surrounding the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. The decision to go to war was based on intelligence that later proved to be flawed, leading to accusations of manipulation and deception by the governments involved. This contributed to a sense of betrayal and mistrust, both within the region and on the global stage.

Moreover, Short highlights the "lack of preparation for afterwards" in the aftermath of the war. The invasion of Iraq resulted in the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime, but it also unleashed a power vacuum and sectarian tensions that fueled further instability. The absence of a comprehensive post-war strategy and effective nation-building efforts exacerbated the chaos and suffering experienced by the Iraqi people, as well as contributing to regional destabilization.

The phrase "it won't go away, will it?" underscores the enduring consequences of the conflict and its aftermath. Short's pessimistic tone reflects the grim reality that the repercussions of the Iraq War continue to reverberate in the Middle East. The legacy of the war, including the rise of extremist groups, the displacement of populations, and the erosion of trust in international interventions, has had far-reaching and persistent effects on the region.

It is important to note that Short's perspective is informed by her experience as a government official involved in shaping policies related to international development. Her concerns about the repercussions of military intervention and the subsequent humanitarian crises align with her commitment to addressing global poverty and promoting sustainable development.

In conclusion, Clare Short's quote encapsulates the complex web of political, military, and humanitarian challenges that have plagued the Middle East, particularly in the aftermath of the Iraq War. It reflects the widespread disillusionment with the handling of the conflict and the enduring impact of the resulting instability and suffering. This quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for diplomatic, humanitarian, and long-term solutions to address the deep-seated issues facing the region.