12. Saddam Hussein, Iraq (2003)
In 2003, the United States led a coalition that invaded Iraq, toppling President Saddam Hussein’s regime. The invasion was justified by claims that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) and had ties to terrorist organizations. Despite extensive searches, no WMDs were found. The conflict led to prolonged instability, sectarian violence, and the emergence of extremist groups. Hussein was captured in December 2003, tried for crimes against humanity, and executed in December 2006. (britannica.com)
