Because I think that there are a lot of Iraqis that are pissed off. I dont think that its all fun and games for them and that this is what theyve always wanted. For some, yes, but for others, no.
The Iranian government should already be nervous. The people are going to change the regime in a short time anyways. What makes me nervous is that the US may try and do that on their own.
Actions that Iran takes could precipitate a US reaction, but recently, I beleive that US statements re. Iran have been very deliberate and controlled to avoid providing fodder for the Islamists. That sounds 'hands-off, wait-and-see' to me. Do you have examples otherwise?
I’m interested in your take on this too rezdawg. One of the big variables in the next phase will be whether or not, and how Iran, Syria and other neighbours try to influence what’s going on in Iraq. Are the Iraqi Shiites sympathetic to the Iranian Mullahs? What’s your prediction on what will happen? Can you see different distinct scenarios, or is it all just up in the air?
Hmm… I haven’t been following this discussion here that closely so if you have an established position on this I may have missed it. But as I recall you’re Persian so, more precisely, I’m wondering what the dominant moderate Persian opinion in Iran is about this war and the possible future relationships with Iraqi Shiites. Thoughts?
glynch, No Worries, Batman Jones, rimrocker: Any more comments on the unjust war? Any more comments on how the Iraqi people don't want us there? Any more snide remarks about Bush stripping Iraq of its sovereignty? Here's your pro-war rally, right here in the streets of Baghdad. There is a winner and loser to every argument. Sorry guys.
Trader_Jorge, the hard part is about to begin. Anybody can break something. Let's see how well it can be put back together again.
Let's be real here. If you were an ordinary Iraqi that's just been taken over by a military power as the US what would you do? Id embrace them like my long lost family. Who knows what the Iraqis really feel. When in Rome, do as the Romans. When Rome conquers you, do as the Romans or risk being killed.
Regarding the Iran situation, I believe that the US, as Cohen put it, will take the 'hands-off, wait-and-see' approach. I hope this is what happens. I think it will be for the greater good of both the US, Iran, and the rest of the world. There really isnt any point in going to war for something that will happen in the near future. If Iran does something that proves otherwise, then at that point, the US should step in and try to help solve the problem. Its important to note that the people there would love to eventually have a life that is similar to life in the US. If it ever gets to the point where the citizens realize that time will not alleviate the problem, then they would support the idea of US invading and ripping the $hit out of the regime. Grizzled, I really dont know how Iran will try to influence whats going on in Iraq. They should just keep their heads out of that situation and worry about themselves.
None of us really could have known how the Iraqis would feel about this. Althoug I have some confidence in the process, we also have yet to see what the US will do to lift Iraq from the ashes. I also heard the first Iraqi interviewed who was quite upset over the looting and mayhem that has yet to be controlled by the occupiers. That resentment will grow, spurred on by a shortage of water and food. ...and why not show some class.
Grizzled, regarding this war, I would say that most Iranians are fine with the fact that the US is attacking Iraq and taking Saddam down. I think most of the citizens are just scared that the US is going to go after them next. They definitely do not want that. If they knew for sure that the US would take the hands off approach towards them, then they would be able to exhale and relax. As far as relations with Iraqi shiites, I dont know much about that. I'll talk to my parents and get back to you.
This is awesome news. Looks to me as if these people are extremely happy we're there, and no matter what happens from this point, they will all be better off from this point on without Saddam hording what belongs to the people of Iraq. I think if these Iraqis weren't happy to see the US, then they'd probably just be hiding out in their homes and not cheering them on and tearing down statues and defacing Saddam pictures... I'm disappointed in some of the negative remarks in this thread, this war could have turned out so much worse for both sides, and it looks to be over in less than four weeks time. I'm just thrilled that we didn't have a Mogadishu waiting for us in Baghdad...
I think someone forgot to read the articles posted on the 1st and 2nd pages listing the past transgressions of some of the individuals slated to run the new government. IMO, no one with any past ties to Israel or past ties to corrupt governments and institutions should be a part of this new government. Who gives a **** who the neocons like? We need to select people based on their background and qualifications for the job. Otherwise this will be a PR nightmare. I have more to say but the blinders some people are wearing kind of makes my blood run hot so I'll refrain for now. I will say that until the war and reconstruction efforts are completely finished, no one can claim to have won any argument that involves justification of the war.
