The Iraq War, in my opinion, was/is wholly justified.
- Iraq had consistently failed to comply with Security Council resolutions.
- They might have retained/developed the ability to manufacture, use, and export chemical and biological weapons.
- Saddam Hussein was a terrible dictator who committed many crimes against humanity.
- The removal of an arch-anti-American regime could kick start the Middle-East peace process.
- The creation of a democratic Iraq could see neighbouring countries also begin democratic reform (this was the belief of the Bush Administration).
- Having a pro-Western, democratic, Muslim state could provide legitimate, diplomatic counter balance to Israel in the region.
- Having Iraq as an ally would mean that the USA would be allowed to hold troops there, reducing representation in Saudi Arabia (which was one of the demands of the 9/11 terrorists).
- The fruits of democracy and capitalism would be of massive benefit to Iraqi citizens.
And, recent news from Iraq is starting to show the last point, at least, is already coming into fruition: http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/meast/07/02/iraq.economy.construction/index.html?fbid=3_AGitRcfbc
---
As for the whole capitalism versus socialism thing, I don't really understand the point. Many Middle-Eastern countries are extremely hierarchical states, with massive gaps between the wealthiest and poorest - the Middle-East is far from a poster boy for socialism. The Taliban fought the Soviets just as hard as they're fighting the Americans.
