My LTE re: "A Conservative Says: End the War"

[Barrett808]

To the Editor:

While it is a welcome development to have a conservative demanding the immediate withdrawal of US forces from Iraq ("Out of Iraq," July 27 - August 2, 2005, http://www.seattleweekly.com/features/0530/050727_news_mossback.php), I wonder if Mr. Gold still labors under some of the illusions conjured by the neo-cons he criticizes. The most persistent illusion that is we did the Iraqis a favor by invading, and what the Iraqis now experience is "freedom."

The unpleasant fact is that Iraq is a now failed state of our own creation, and the weak central government has largely reverted to its former oppressiveness. There are credible reports of widespread torture and extra-judicial executions by US-trained Iraqi police and "elite" forces like the Wolf Brigade. Former Mukhabarat agents have been reinstalled in a desperate bid to use the old ways -- Saddam's ways -- to uproot the insurgency. BBC reported last week that these methods include drilling holes in elbows and knees before execution.

Contrary to optimistic appraisals by those who hope to find some silver lining in the illegal invasion, the people of Iraq have little reason to be grateful. Not only has this criminal act produced a catastrophe, it has not even achieved the modest goal of eliminating Saddam-style tyranny.

There must be accountability. Withdraw, yes. But withdraw, prosecute our war criminals, and pay reparations.

Barrett808

What do you all think?

[MasonJar]

1. Great! Send it.

[WhiteTara]

2. great. you make us proud eom

[Barrett808]

3. Thanks, I sent it this morning

My wife thinks they won't print it. We'll see.

[peacebird]

4. Excellent LTTE!

Take a bow!

:toast:

Do report back if they post it too!

[Mercury_Rising]

5. N/T