I've changed my mind
Yes, it might sound strange in this time when people come up with the stupidest arguments or simply run away in order to not have to change their opinion, but I have. I have said from the start that the war in Iraq was a bad idea and that, thought there was a slim chance of everything ending well, that was a huge gamble that shouldn't have been taken. Especially considering the millions of lives at stake. Then I saw the way the Americans were dealing with this occupation. They claimed they were bringing democracy, that they would create a state that would recognise human rights, that would be fair and good for everyone. Then I saw what actually happened. The lack of transparency. The lack of accountability. They way they dealt with incidents where citizens and journalists died. The razzias they held. The way all the promised aid flowed back to the US. Then I knew this would go wrong. I had always hoped it wouldn't and that the small chance of things ending well would actually happen. That's why I felt that, now that the troops were there, they should stay and finish the job. Not anymore. Right now, it looks to me there are only two scenarios left. I'll summarise as simply as possible:
1) a big mess
2) a big mess with a superpower in the mix
The Americans have screwed up. Nobody wants them there. You could say people like Al-Sadr are extremists, that they have little support. Well, yes and no. That they are extremists doesn't mean the majority doesn't (partially) agree with them. There could be apathy, or silent approval. But somehow I don't think there's that much support for the American side anymore. The extremists may have few people willing to put their lives on the line for them. But (installing a) dictatorship doesn't require majority support. After all, that's what dictatorships are all about - a small minority ruling through powerful oppression. These are the kinds of scenarios that are now likely. I think the chance that the Americans will be able to build their ideal state has fallen to about zero. They should be glad when they're out of there. The sooner the better. Let the Iraqi people decide their own fate. In whatever way they choose. It might be bad, but a continued American presence will only worsen and lenghten the suffering.
12:44:24 PM 
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