Reports from many experts agree that a new tide seems to be turning in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Elections are just around the corner in Iraq and there is much progress to talk about from Iraq’s last election when violence ruled the streets and many boycotted the polls. Given the fact that just today insurgents have started they bloody attempt to disrupt the attempt with several suicide attacks at polling stations, with over a dozen killed. It might be easy to hear this news and write off the elections, but here are a few points we can reference to see the success of Iraq with out Saddam and Bush’s troop surge. Last year the Parliament passed 50 bills and has been able to move forward from the basic issues such as water, electricity, and health clinics. Sunnis, Shiites, and Kurds have found some common ground and jointly working on a few new bills. Iraq’s media is the freest in the region and willing to even go to bat against corrupt businessmen and politicians. The judiciary is broad and deep and willing to convict shady senior officials that do not have Iraq’s best interest in mind. Culture and social life are returning to the streets and parks are staying open later at night. The voice of women’s groups is gaining sound and finding a few ears. The military is highly respected by the general public, but is not showing the historical signs of political ambitions and a future coup. Iran’s internal struggles have hindered its ability to meddle in Iraq. However, most of all… “There is more of a sense of an Iraqi national identity.” -Phoebe Marr.
Obama’s plan for Afghanistan is also seeing success as the Taliban’s influence and ability to find support are dwindling (of course the Taliban tells a different story). Despite the Pashtun majority in the Taliban ranks, only one in four Pashtuns favor the insurgents. They, however, are seeking the stability that a relationship with the West provides. Collateral damage by the US is down 30% while indiscriminate killing by the Taliban is up 60%. After three consecutive years of declining Afghani support for US troops, support increased last year. More important then growing support for US troops is growing support for Afghanistan’s Army and Police amongst civilian populations. ABC News reported that 70% are favorable toward the Army and 62% toward the Police. We are seeing Taliban control fall even in their prized Helmand province. Perhaps the missing factor in moving Afghanistan along with leaps instead of baby steps is a transparent, legitimate government with a respectable leader. (Charney Research)
If these two nations continue down the right road for the next couple years, the US may be able to re-evaluate its foreign policy without having Iraq or Afghanistan at the focal point.
It's a dance . . .
14 years ago
