Former US Defense Secretary & Iraq war architect
Former Defense Secretary of the United States, Donald Rumsfeld, has died at the age of 88.
Rumsfeld was the main architect of the Iraq war.
He oversaw the military response to the 9-11 attacks in America, and its initial attack on al-Qaida bases in Afghanistan.
He was replaced by President George W. Bush in 2006.
In a statement on Wednesday night, the former President called Mr. Rusfeld "faithful steward of our armed forces".
"A period that brought unprecedented challenges to our country and to our military also brought out the best qualities in Secretary Rumsfeld... he never paled before tough decisions, and never flinched from responsibility." Statement by President Bush: https://t.co/mGI7qYqUgr
— George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) June 30, 2021
Former Secretary of State, Condaleeza Rice, called Rumsfeld "a good friend".
Don Rumsfeld was a remarkable and committed public servant. He was also a good friend and a steady presence throughout the many trials of the post-9/11 world. I will miss him as a colleague and as a friend. Joyce and the family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
— Condoleezza Rice (@CondoleezzaRice) June 30, 2021