Blaming the Iraqis?

One of the more disturbing political developments to observe in connection with the Iraqi occupation is the dissembling that is taking place about where the responsibility lies for restoring social order and stability in the country. Now that “victory” seems ever more elusive (whatever it meant in the first place) the President and his “spinners” have begun to heap more and more emphasis on the sovereign status of Iraq and the responsibility of its people to “make the choice” to avoid civil war and restore order. President Maliki, in particular, has often been the subject of intense pressure, as if he could pronounce peace upon his nation, under the conditions that prevail.

As disturbing as the pattern the administration is evidencing…that is quite predictable. What is really quite perplexing is that members of the Democratic party seem also to be taking up the same line. Perhaps they are sensing some added pressure with the upcoming elections and are preparing a deflection of sorts, but this is blaming the victim in the extreme. No Iraqis (save for the few misinforming insiders working with the White House) asked for this intervention. Thousands upon thousands have died. The country has descended into what only a few hold-outs refuse to name a civil war and we are responsible.

Yes, it is tricky because there is a question about what our responsibilities are now and how to help. I personally believe that our sheer presence there stimulates violence and co-generates the environment for bloodshed. Yet, should we simply leave, there will likely be a power struggle that will likely not be smooth. As a starter, the United States should flatly and unequivocally state that we will not maintain a physical presence in Iraq or in the Middle East for that matter. We are the cause celebre. We create the purpose for the terrorism there. Why can’t we absorb that reality? We need a strategy that draws upon the neighboring states and international bodies that will have respect there.

But in any case…do not place the onus of this situation on the people of Iraq who are innocents and have only been damaged by it. It is unfair and unworthy of our country and its espoused traditions.