Meaning: This quote by Douglas Feith, a former United States Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, encapsulates a crucial aspect of the international efforts to disarm Iraq of its weapons of mass destruction (WMD) during the early 2000s. The statement highlights the pivotal role of the Iraqi government in making the inspections work, emphasizing the necessity for Iraq to voluntarily disarm itself due to international pressure. To fully comprehend the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the context in which it was made and the events leading up to it.

In the aftermath of the Gulf War in 1991, Iraq was required to dismantle its WMD programs and allow for rigorous inspections to verify its compliance with the disarmament mandates set forth by the United Nations Security Council. However, throughout the 1990s, Iraq's cooperation with the inspection teams led by the United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) and later by the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC) was marred by obfuscation, non-compliance, and outright defiance.

By the early 2000s, concerns about Iraq's continued possession of WMD and its potential to use or proliferate such weapons had intensified within the international community. This led to a renewed focus on disarmament efforts, culminating in a concerted push by the United States and its allies to compel Iraq to comply with its obligations under UN resolutions.

Feith's statement reflects the belief that the success of the inspections hinged on the Iraqi government's willingness to acknowledge the imperative of disarmament in the face of mounting international pressure. It underscores the idea that while external scrutiny and inspections were crucial, the ultimate responsibility for Iraq's disarmament rested with its own government.

In the broader context of international relations and arms control, the quote also speaks to the delicate balance between external pressure and internal decision-making within sovereign states. It acknowledges the limitations of external enforcement mechanisms in achieving disarmament without the genuine commitment and cooperation of the target state.

The quote also sheds light on the multifaceted nature of disarmament efforts, encompassing not only the technical aspects of inspections and verification but also the political and diplomatic dimensions. It underscores the importance of creating a conducive environment wherein the target state perceives the necessity and benefits of disarmament, leading it to take proactive steps in that direction.

Feith's role as a public servant involved in shaping U.S. defense policy during this period further underscores the significance of the quote. It reflects the stance of the U.S. government and its allies in advocating for a proactive and cooperative approach from the Iraqi government in fulfilling its disarmament obligations.

In conclusion, Douglas Feith's quote encapsulates the complexities and challenges inherent in international efforts to disarm Iraq of its WMD. It underscores the pivotal role of the Iraqi government in making the inspections work and highlights the intricate interplay between external pressure and internal decision-making in achieving disarmament. Understanding the context and implications of this quote provides valuable insights into the dynamics of arms control, international diplomacy, and the quest for global security.