The flag of Iraq is a national symbol that has evolved over time, reflecting the nation's political changes and ideological shifts. It embodies the country's heritage, culture, and aspirations.
History
The flag of Iraq has undergone several changes since the establishment of the modern state. Originally under Ottoman rule, the territory that would become Iraq did not have its own flag but used the Ottoman Empire's flag. In 1921, when the Kingdom of Iraq was established under British administration, a flag with a black, white, and green horizontal tricolor featuring a red triangle was introduced. This design drew inspiration from the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans.
In 1959, following the 1958 revolution that ended the monarchy, a new flag was introduced featuring a red, white, and black vertical tricolor with a yellow sun symbol in the center, representing the Kurdish minority in Iraq.
In 1963, the newly established Ba'ath Party government introduced a flag design similar to Egypt's, consisting of horizontal black, white, and red bands with three green stars in the white band. These stars symbolized the party's pan-Arab aspirations.
In 1991, during the Gulf War, the script "Allahu Akbar" ("God is Greatest") was added in green between the stars as a gesture towards Islamic solidarity.
The flag was modified again in 2004 after the fall of Saddam Hussein, with a serifed version of the Kufic script replacing the earlier handwriting. The current version, adopted in 2008, retains the "Allahu Akbar" phrase in a simple Kufic script, removing the three stars entirely.
Design and Symbolism
The current flag of Iraq is a horizontal tricolor of red, white, and black. The central white stripe features the green Kufic script reading "Allahu Akbar." The colors are traditional Pan-Arab colors signifying courage (red), peace (white), and struggle (black).
The Kufic script "Allahu Akbar" was introduced during the 1991 war, reflecting a period of heightened Islamic identity within the country. This phrase is a common expression in Islam and holds religious significance, representing faith and resilience.
The design resonates with other flags in the Arab world, reinforcing both a national identity and a regional connection. The Pan-Arab colors are commonly found across nations that share cultural and historical ties.
Usage
The flag of Iraq holds a prominent place in government buildings and is displayed during national ceremonies. It is used at military and diplomatic functions and is a required presence at international gatherings where Iraq is represented.
There are legal provisions governing its use, ensuring its respectful representation. Protocols specify the correct manner of display and stipulate that any damaged or faded flags are to be replaced promptly.
Similar Flags or Influences
The flag shares similarities with other Arab nations such as Egypt, Syria, and Yemen, all of which use variations of the Pan-Arab colors. This similarity draws from shared historical narratives and a collective identity that emerged in the 20th century.
Colonial influence and regional politics have significantly affected flag designs, with many designs drawing inspiration from the Arab Revolt and subsequent movements for Arab unity and independence.
Cultural Significance
As a symbol of national identity, the flag of Iraq carries immense emotional weight. During conflicts and national upheavals, it has served as a rallying symbol for unity and resistance.
In both art and literature, the flag often appears as a motif representing resilience and hope. During national celebrations, the flag underscores themes of patriotism and pride, reflecting Iraq's diverse culture and history.
Related Terminology
Key terms include "tricolor," referring to a flag with three distinct color bands, and "script," which describes written characters like the Kufic Arabic script used in Iraq's flag. "Pan-Arab colors" are symbolic colors found in many Middle Eastern flags that represent shared cultural and historical ties.
References
[1] Iraqi Ministry of Culture (www.moc.gov.iq)
[2] North American Vexillological Association (www.nava.org)
[3] Historical Archives of the Arab League
[4] "Flags of the World" Vexillology Resource (www.crwflags.com)
[5] BBC News: History of the Iraqi Flag (www.bbc.com)