“It’s important that the new government be attentive to the competence of the people in the ministries and that they avoid unnecessary turbulence,”
“We have an opportunity to continue to make progress politically, economically… anything that would delay that or disrupt that as a result of turbulence, or lack of confidence or corruption in government, would be unfortunate.” – Donald Rumsfeld, US Defence Secretary
Wise words indeed. Unfortunately, he was talking about Iraq where US concerns are mounting, regarding the loyalty and effectiveness of the Iraqi security forces.
The recent declaration by 64 Sunni leaders, that their followers should join the army and police, is extremely encouraging for inter-ethnic stability within Iraq, but has sent alarm bells ringing in Washington, who are concerned that a truly democratic Iraq, which represents the desires of the indigenous population, will not necessarily be in the best interests of US strategy in the Middle-East.
As it’s been a while since I wrote about Iraq, I suppose I ought to take this chance to admit that the invasion has worked out less catastrophic than I had feared. Which does not mean I think it was legal, or a good idea, but it does look like the result might eventually be pretty good. For those who didn’t die, get tortured, or lose their family or home, at any rate.