In fact, he has used the plots and the alliance between his opponents and the US to his advantage. To Saddam, this is an excuse for greater oppression of his people. Internationally, he has driven a wedge between the US and Britain and the rest of the world. This is particularly true of the Arab masses outside Iraq. Because they are not subject to his brutality, they see him as a hero who has successfully stood up to the west.
Arab leaders fear their people's reaction and are opening channels of communication with Iraq.
Non-Arab countries, including the Russian Federation, China and France, want to readmit Iraq to the international community and trade with it. Saddam has used the determination of the US and Britain to replace him to maintain an extremely efficient security system. Run by his two psychopathic sons and other members of his family, the security apparatus has eliminated thousands of Iraqis. In addition, army officers are rotated on a regular basis, units close to Baghdad have no ammunition, and only three people know Saddam's movements. All Middle East governments prefer Saddam to the prospect of a civil war in Iraq.