Title: A Family's Struggle Amidst Political Turmoil in Iraq

In the shadow of Saddam Hussein’s Ba’ath party, which seized power in Iraq shortly after the author’s birth, the political landscape became increasingly oppressive. The author reflects on their childhood, marked by the pervasive influence of the regime, which even extended to family connections, as seen when the author’s father secured a job for a relative. Family gatherings often turned into discussions about the political climate, revealing the tension and uncertainty that loomed over their lives. As the situation escalated, the author’s father prepared to leave Iraq, a decision fraught with danger. The family had devised a plan to ensure his departure went unnoticed, with the father’s driver sent to Mosul as a decoy. This marked a significant moment for the author, who sensed the gravity of the situation as their father’s communication dwindled. The departure was not just a physical journey; it symbolized a deeper struggle against the regime’s tightening grip. The author’s mother faced the daunting task of managing the family’s affairs in the wake of their father’s exit. With two children to care for and a full-time job, she was thrust into the role of liquidating the family business amidst a chaotic backdrop. The police posed little threat, but the security services instilled a sense of fear, complicating their already precarious situation. Ultimately, the family’s experience encapsulates the personal toll of political upheaval, highlighting the resilience required to navigate life under a repressive regime while grappling with the uncertainty of the future.