What does this tell us about Iraq?
 

I am not surprised by the numbers.

I'm not either, but do they say anything about how we are doing and what the focus should be?

That unless they begin to see themselves as capable of self rule in a democratic society, they will fall back into the typical repressive middle eastern profile. Like Iran, where the Islamic religious elite dictate their countries international and domestic policies, with the typical heavy hand. Iraq has the opportunity to emerge as the leader in their region if they hold fast to this beginning. I am concerned by this articals statement that the poll showed the people felt that the attacks on the CPA were justified and that the people wanted their religious leaders, police, and the UN to take over.

It also stated that they also felt that attacks on UN/humanitarian personnel were also justified....they are nuts, make up your minds. They love not being under the Huesen rule but they want a strong, read "Ruler/Dictator(?)", leading them. Contridictions rule over there it would appear.

I'm not sure they are going to make the leap into the modern world arena?

Skipper

I think they support the view that we are making progress, but the battle is uphill.

Do you both feel that the Iraqi people want to join the global community, or remain the way they were just not with Sadam and boys?

S.

I would imagine that part of that 51% are former regime members that are losing out. And probably some that want to run wild, looting and stealing and what not. But I would also guess that part of it is due to actions of the troops there.

Its a shame we can't use SF hearts and minds for all of the nation-building. I saw a video where they stopped looting of wood with a tank and drove over a car with the wood piled on top. Just an example.

Probably ought to look at the psyops programs as well. They may be an uphill battle given the religious implications, but I don't think we do a good job of touting our sucesses sometimes.

I honestly have no idea. I've never been there.

What does it mean to "join the global community"?

No high a lofty meaning other than associating with the rest of the world in a positive manner where they play with the rest of the kids on the global playground. Iran, Iraq, Syria have all be example of countries where they have isolated themselves and spit at the world. They have financed terror and anti-western activities in the past, maybe present, and have generally shown themselves to be those kind of kids nobody wants to play with, globally speaking.

S.

I like this

New Map

HEY DunbarFC! Look what I did! LOL:lifter

I like this one:

NDD,

I like that too! In my brief scan of the site the gap left out Burma. I'm involved in this part of the world and know that there are reports that Burma's military junta is cozy with N.Korea and talking about 1st world arms.

The Gap also parrallels what the Christian community calls the "10-40 window", the bulk of the world's population and the least influenced by Christianity.

Very interesting stuff, thanks.

S.

Airbornelawyer,
Great graphic! How do you make avatars?

S.