Abdul Salam Arif, Iraqi colonel and politician, 2nd President of Iraq (b. 1921)
Abd al-Salam Mohammed Arif al-Jumayli, often known simply as Abd al-Salam Arif, emerged as a prominent and transformative figure in 20th-century Iraqi politics. Born on March 21, 1921, into the al-Jumayli tribe, a respected lineage in Iraq, his life was deeply intertwined with the nation's tumultuous journey from monarchy to republic, and through subsequent periods of military rule.

A Key Figure in the 1958 Revolution

Arif first rose to national prominence as a leading architect of the pivotal 14 July Revolution in 1958. This watershed event, carried out by a group of Free Officers, irrevocably altered Iraq's trajectory by overthrowing the Hashemite monarchy. The revolution ended nearly four decades of monarchical rule under King Faisal II and established the Republic of Iraq. As a charismatic and influential brigadier general, Arif was a crucial collaborator with Abd al-Karim Qasim in orchestrating the coup, which initially enjoyed widespread popular support across various segments of Iraqi society. The revolution promised a new era of national independence, social justice, and Arab nationalism, themes that would continue to define Iraqi politics for decades.

From Revolutionary Ally to President

Following the success of the 1958 revolution, Abd al-Salam Arif was initially appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior in the new republican government, serving under the primary leader of the revolution, Prime Minister Abd al-Karim Qasim. However, the revolutionary leaders soon found themselves at odds, particularly over the direction of Iraq’s foreign policy and the role of Arab nationalism. Arif, a fervent proponent of pan-Arab unity, strongly advocated for Iraq's closer ties with the United Arab Republic (a union of Egypt and Syria under Gamal Abdel Nasser), a stance that put him in direct conflict with Qasim's more Iraq-centric and nationalist policies. This ideological clash escalated into a bitter power struggle. Arif was subsequently arrested, convicted of an attempted coup against Qasim, and sentenced to death, though his sentence was later commuted, and he was eventually released from prison in 1961. The political landscape remained volatile, and on February 8, 1963, a coup d'état, often referred to as the Ramadan Revolution or the 8 February Revolution, orchestrated by Ba'athists and other Arab nationalists, successfully overthrew and executed Abd al-Karim Qasim. Abd al-Salam Arif, having regained significant support among nationalist and military factions, was appointed President of Iraq, becoming the nation's second head of state in the republican era.

Presidency and Legacy

As President from 1963, Abd al-Salam Arif sought to stabilize Iraq after years of political instability and infighting. His presidency was marked by efforts to consolidate power, promote Arab nationalism, and implement state-led economic policies. He navigated a complex domestic political scene, balancing the influence of various military factions and political parties. On the international stage, his government generally pursued a policy of non-alignment while maintaining close ties with other Arab nationalist states. His tenure, however, was tragically cut short. On April 13, 1966, President Arif died in a helicopter crash near Basra, a city in southern Iraq, while en route to inspect military positions. He was succeeded by his elder brother, Abd al-Rahman Arif. His death, officially attributed to an accident, occurred amidst a period of considerable political tension, leading to various theories and speculations about its true nature, though no definitive evidence of foul play has ever been officially established. Abd al-Salam Arif's legacy remains complex, remembered as a key figure who helped dismantle the old monarchical order and ushered in a new republican era, yet also as a leader whose time in power was brief and marked by the turbulent political currents of mid-20th century Iraq.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Abd al-Salam Arif?

Abd al-Salam Arif was a significant Iraqi military officer and political figure who served as the second President of Iraq from 1963 until his death in 1966. He was a central figure in the 1958 revolution that overthrew the Hashemite monarchy.

What was Abd al-Salam Arif's role in the 1958 Iraqi Revolution?

He played a leading and instrumental role alongside Abd al-Karim Qasim in planning and executing the 14 July 1958 Revolution, which successfully ended the Iraqi monarchy and established the Republic of Iraq.

How did Abd al-Salam Arif become President of Iraq?

After the 1958 revolution, he initially served as Deputy Prime Minister. Following a period of imprisonment due to a power struggle with Abd al-Karim Qasim, he was released and later played a key role in the 1963 coup that overthrew Qasim, subsequently becoming President.

How did President Abd al-Salam Arif die?

President Abd al-Salam Arif died on April 13, 1966, in a helicopter crash near Basra, southern Iraq. The incident was officially ruled an accident, though it occurred during a politically charged era.

What is the significance of "al-Jumayli" in his name?

“Al-Jumayli” indicates his tribal affiliation, signifying his connection to the respected al-Jumayli tribe, which is a common practice in naming conventions in many Arab societies and provides cultural context to his identity.