In foreign affairs , Saddam sought to have Iraq play a leading role in the Middle East .
Because Saddam Hussein rarely left Iraq , Tariq Aziz , one of Saddam 's aides , traveled abroad extensively and represented Iraq at many diplomatic meetings .
In foreign affairs , Saddam Hussein sought to have Iraq play a leading role in the Middle East .
Because Saddam Hussein rarely left Iraq , Tariq Aziz , one of Saddam 's aides , traveled abroad extensively and represented Iraq at many diplomatic meetings .