10 Years Later



Ten years ago today we entered Iraq with the plan to find weapons of mass destruction, free the people, prevent al-Qaida from expanding into Iraq, and spread democracy.  Last night, another bomb erupted killing 57 people and proving that Iraq is more unstable now than it was when we entered into this engagement, and more so since we pulled out of the area in 2011.  The conflict, which was to lead to a democratic government, led to more violence.  With the capture and killing of Sadam Hussein, Shiite and Suni insurgents were able to kill approximately 4500 American soldiers and over 100,000 Iraqis. 

And, although it is more democratic than under its previous regime, much to our dismay it is not a pro-American democracy.   The new Shiite led government has ties with Tehran and faces a violent future with the Suni who were in control during Sadam's reign.  Last night is an example of this.  And, on top of this, is the way in which the bombs were planted, leaves us to assume that al-Qaida had its hand in this activity. The ramifications?  No elections in this area until further notice.

Those who know me are cognizant of my feelings toward these matters.  To say we should never have gone there to in the first place is now moot, but leaving the area in such a volatile condition was not the smartest thing we ever did either.  Yes, certain countries in Middle East are our "allies" but they should continue to clearly, so that all the world can hear them, declare that groups such as al-Qaida, the Muslim Brotherhood, and the Taliban, are detrimental to the positive growth of this area as well as the freedom of the world.  Alas, to do so, though, would make them an enemy of their people as the Muslim nations are united under Allah.  It is much easier for them if the hatred is focused on Western Civilizations rather than their own corrupt governments.  But if they want to continue to receive support from our own government as well as other western allies, we should demand that they do this and threaten to cut off ties with them until we can all stand united on one front.