Abstract

Turning Point in Iraq

The author comments on how the administration of U.S. president George W. Bush is handling opposition to the military occupation of Iraq. As many predicted before the current war, the invasion and occupation have released explosive tensions and caused growing anti-US feeling. With the uprising of Muqtada al-Sadr's militia in at least seven cities, the unrest has spread from the Sunni minority to the Shiite population. The resistance calls into question the Administration's characterization of the war. Before the invasion, the White House and its supporters promised that US troops would be greeted with flowers and candy. Instead, resistance was often fierce among the Sunnis, even though the bulk of Saddam Hussein's army abandoned the field. This turning point in Iraq calls for a change of direction in Washington, but both parties in Congress are demanding that we "stay the course," no matter the cost, even as the Pentagon announces an increase in troops. This turning point in Iraq calls for a change of direction in Washington, but both parties in Congress are demanding that we "stay the course," no matter the cost, even as the Pentagon announces an increase in troops. Why does this Administration have no coherent exit strategy from a country where opposition to our presence is rapidly growing, and where increasing numbers are taking up arms to throw us out? Where is the accountability for an Administration that has led us into this quagmire?