Why did the U.S. choose to have war and set up indefinite bases in Iraq and not somewhere else?

I understand that Saddam was for having oil priced in a different currency other than U.S. Dollars. Proximity to other oil-rich countries definitely has an effect, but why Iraq? Was it just because it was the only country we could produce lies to enter and have a full-blown and excused war with? Saudi Arabia has greater oil reserves. I know now for sure the U.S. is placed strategically in Iraq for the World resource struggle that is only going to intensify as time pes. But why Iraq of all places? Did I answer my own question(s)?