Can the Iraqis Govern and Protect Themselves in 6 Months?
Reader comment on item: Let Iraqis run Iraq

Submitted by James in Boise (United States), Oct 16, 2003 at 21:24

An interesting take on the situation. Daniel depicts a resentful populas. But, a recent Gallup poll found around 85% of Iraqis wanting the US to stay in country longer than expected. So, what's the truth?

Anyway, turning over power to Iraqis would be a positive move. But, to do so within the next six months? Can the Iraqis defend themselves against the onslaught of the remaining Baathists, Saddam loyalists, and radical Islamics? Can democracy survive or would there be a return to something evident throughout the Arab world: warlordism, or a dictatorial strongman, or even a radical Islamic nation?

The sooner the better, in turning power back to the Iraqis, but when is the right time? I, personally, don't want our military deaths and our spent treasurery, and certainly not the upheaval to Iraqis, having gone for nothing (if another Saddam, Uday or Qusay, come to power).

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