In 1963, did the CIA play the key role in helping Saddam and the Baathists take power? Or was this likely orchestrated by Nasser and Syria?

by Paulie_Gatto

I've read that the CIA was very much involved in putting Saddam in power (even giving him the lists of left-wing activists to target) after the assassination of Prime Minister Qassim. However, on wikipedia the author they cite speculates that it was Nasser and the United Arab Republic intelligence that helped set Saddam up to rule.

What is the story behind this?

Goodmorningdave

More of a side question that I hope the answer will elaborate upon when answering the above question. What was the platform of the Baathists? Were Syria and Egypt the the leaders in this movement?