Talk, Talk
Wow. Something I recommended about Iraq actually took place. The International Conference on Iraq is the first step toward building regional stabity. Iraq's parlous state is not only Iraq's problem, the chaos in Iraq could spill over into larger conflicts. Think August 1914. That's why I recommended that everybody--Iraq, its neighbors, the US and UN--start talking about what kind of Iraq they want and why they have a legitimate right to expect that outcome. Iraqis should especially speak up about their interests, their hopes and their identity. Iraq is their home and they have the right to create that home in ways that best serve them and do not harm or threaten others. Talking at Sharm al-Shaykh is a good start.
That the Iraqi government called the conference is a good sign. The government may lack credibility with most Sunnis and many Shi'a as well but its attempt to call attention to the nation's problems and reach out to the world community is positive. Dar Al-Hayat reports from the conference that Iraqi's believe the event and opportunity offered are a sign of Iraqi confidence and diplomatic skill in representing the nation. Iraqi media covereage has the same tenor. The only way that the Iraqi government will gain legitimacy with most Iraqis is when they believe it is acting in their interests, not those of a group or foreign power. Actively pursuing a national agenda in the world is a way to earn that legitimacy. I hope that's what is actually happening.
Since the Iraqi government is not an entirely free actor, I am sure that the occupation authorities concurred in the decision. I wonder if Americans had anything to do with initiating the effort. A regional solution is certainly in America's interests but it's also in Iraq's interest. Either party would have reason to start the process. The conference is excellent cover and opportunity for America start talking with all the players in the region.
I have long maintained that Iraq is a problem to be solved, not a war to be won. War and violence build nothing. A clearly defined national interest, pursued in cooperation and exchange with other nations is the foundation of a global community that can live in peace on this small planet.
Good on you, all the nations who came to talk with Iraq and each other. Please keep talking until you find peace.
Labels: foreignpolicy, iran, iraq
posted by Rez Dog at 1:27 PM
1 Comments:
talk, indeed. it is an interesting historical note that, in that region, almost all settlements of conflict since alexander have been negotiated. after the defeat of darius, alexander kept the royal family, civil service structure and system of satraps largely intact. in afgahnistan, he married roxanne, daughter of the strongest warlord, married over a thousand afghani women to his troops, left the troops in place to stabilize his rear gaurd, hired most of the tribes he had been fighting for three years as auxiliary cavalry, then merrily pushed on the india.
however, if we are relying on the bush administration for our diplomacy, we will most certainly be handed the shit end of every stick. he has demonstrated zero skills, zero nuance, and even less imagination.
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