Did Saddam Hussein use military force to keep his power?

Yes, Saddam Hussein used military force to maintain his power in Iraq. He relied on a strong military and security apparatus to suppress dissent, eliminate political opposition, and enforce loyalty within the government and society. His regime was characterized by brutal tactics, including violent crackdowns on uprisings and the use of chemical weapons against both internal and external adversaries. This reliance on force was a key aspect of his authoritarian rule.