On October 2, 1989, President George H.W. Bush signed National Security Directive 26, titled ‘U.S. Policy Toward the Persian Gulf.’ It read, ” ‘We should pursue, and seek to facilitate, opportunities for U.S. firms to participate in the reconstruction of the Iraqi economy, particularly in the energy area, where they do not conflict with our non-proliferation and other significant objectives. Also, as a means of developing access to and influence with the Iraqi defense establishment, the United States should consider sales of non-lethal forms of military assistance, e.g., training courses and medical exchanges, on a case-by-case basis.’ ”
– Richard N. Haass, War of Necessity, War of Choice, Page 47