Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

John, Austin Texas — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:13:19 GMT

Thank God Bush stuck to his guns despite the unpopularity of the war. I hope Obama doesn't screw it up.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Steve Flint — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:15:28 GMT

You NEVER would've seen an article like this if George Bush were president. With the ultra liberal Obama in office we have, "a kinder, gentler, Abu-Ghraib". Now we have, "Iraqis' feeling alive again". Now we have, "Pentagon inspects Guantanamo, no problems found."
The left wing press is disgusting.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

josephjoseph@charter.net — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:22:51 GMT

And just think , not that long ago Obama , Biden and all the other democrats were saying we cannot win in Iraq . We need to get out now and admit defeat.If we had listened to them Iraq would be a terrible place today , Americas image would be ruined and the Iraq people would be living in Misery. And we put these people in Charge? I hate to see Afganastan in a couple of years.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Douglas Miller, Detroit, Michigan — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:23:08 GMT

I hope the Iraqi people enjoy their hard earned freedom and security while it lasts. The Obama administration is set to pull the rug out from under those poor suffering souls. Like it or not, we are the sheriff and as soon as we turn out the lights and walk away, the well armed predators will return in force. You can bet that the al-Qaida gang and the Mullahs' boys will ride back into town shooting up the place. Stayed tuned if you like blood baths and big body counts. It's gonna get real ugly.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mike Corcoran Minneapokis, MN USA — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:28:57 GMT

I'm so confused!? Saddam and his sons are gone, but a Civil War was supposed to be happening and the "The War is Lost" (thank you Harry Reid).
What is going on here, did we win? Did we defeat Al Qaeda? Did we defeat the Baathists in Anbar? Did we take out Iran's surrogate, Sadr (hiding in Iran) and defeat Iran's attempt to take Basra?
Looks like we won - where is the parade?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

jamal — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:43:23 GMT

Every great work has to be mistakes .. the liberation of Iraq from the rule is unfair to our hearts perch since 1968, TO 2003 must FOR US complete the cumulative success of the US-the great, (to end the domination of religious parties to govern) .We would be happy if US do that.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Rick Raddatz, Littleton, CO — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:05:12 GMT

Why is it the "U.S. Invasion"
Why not the "U.S. Liberation"

The word 'invasion' makes it sound like we're the bad guys... 'Liberation' says we're the good guys.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Irwin, Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:29:57 GMT

This return to 'normalcy' is a credit to the Iraqis' resilience, but this is no thanks to the Americans. We can's lose sight of the enormity of the crime in this unsanctioned invasion, justified by lies. Don't forget the million killed and the millions displaced! Yes, the worst of the horrors may be over, but please don't rewrite history. The ends do not justify the means! 70% of Iraquis still think the war and occupation was wrong. I'm very fearful that, like Vietnam, the U.S. will get to 'skate' on this so-called victory. We need to prevent this from happening again. Unfortunately now we're creating a mess out of Afghanistan. When will the American people realize that these foreign adventures are merely a diversion from addressing problems here at home.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Alexandra Doe — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:56:18 GMT

This is a blatant propaganda piece at justifying the inexcusable presence of American Soldiers in Iraq. We should never have been there in the first place, and we should be out of there immediately, with no exceptions. This of course also includes Afghanistan, since both of these countries have been devastated by the lingering presence of our military bases and the depleted uranium that now threatens the biological viablity of the region. What have we imported to these nations, but our own brand of tyranny, oppression and the malfeasance of a technologically advanced conqueror.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Robert Canada — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:07:03 GMT

I am very very happy for the iraq people

I am canadian and was against the war from the start

saddam was a idiot and control freak

and had to be removed

but americans did not have to kill innocent people to do it

it makes me sick

www.henrymakow.com www.infowars.com

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

D Garrison — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:08:07 GMT

WOW this from NBC I suppose it is OBama who won the war and made everything all better instead of Bush getting rid of a horrible sadistic leader to make the world a better place.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

J Rock — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:22:40 GMT

You people are so small minded...you really think that this ONE story means that 7 years of war were all worth it and it justifies BUSH and his invasion of a sovereign nation?? Come on..you are just looking for something to say "See I told you Bush was right" How about 4000 American lives lost and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis dead because of this senseless war. Or how about our country spending 12 billion dollars a month that we now owe back to China for this war that had nothing to do with us?? I thought this was a war on terror not a free Iraq?? Why were we there again?

You fools remember...Mission Accomplished...

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Chris Norton Keene New Hampshire — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:23:38 GMT

The left wing press and the democrats will hasten the end of this country as we once knew it. Obama makes me sick with all his B.S. and socialist policies. Let's now watch as the democrats try to take the credit for winning the war.......even after they insisted that it was lost! God help us all. OBAMA, one big ass mistake again!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

D Garrison — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:24:03 GMT

So Alexandra, this is a propaganda piece? From whom the liberal left wing nut media? You have got to be kidding me? You obviously have no brain and can't think for yourself so go back to the college classroom and listen to some more ivory tower crap your profs spew. If it so bad here LEAVE and lets see if you can write your stupid comments say in Afganistan while you are in your burqa but wait you can't go to school in Afganistan. How about Cuba, no Russia, no, oh wait how about China? No you moron it is only allowed in DEMOCRACIES. The oppressive Democracy of America. God how can people be so dumb.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Chris Norton Keene New Hampshire — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:24:43 GMT

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

mary-anne seminole, florida — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:24:52 GMT

Unbelievable I can't believe I am reading this. Let's not give Bush any credit though. Rewgardles sof what this admin thinks History will show Buch had the brass one's and all the naysayer's will go down in history as the idiot's As usual!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

loren howard california — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:25:38 GMT

liberals suck and are wrong 99.99999% of the time....history shows this and always will.....Mr BO and all his idiot side kicks are proven wrong again. America made mistakes but they were not evil minded, just part of big government and huamn non perfection....America is the greatest country the world has seen and done the most good!....What if's are cheap...a dime a dozen.....if we didn't go in much worse things might of happened and so on....I hope the Iraq's can live in peace and grow as a free people...they should also thank the American treasury and especially the human sacrafice from our great Military....Thank you Thank you Thank you American Military.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Dr. Love, charlotte NC — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:27:10 GMT

All thanks to the liberals and Obama! NOT!!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jacob, Lincoln, NE — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:27:37 GMT

the ends do justify the means. I don't lke war, but it is liberals like many of you that would have continued to sit by and watch Hitler take over the world. In this case, Saddam would have just been able to terrorize his own people forever. You liberals make me sick. some atrocities have occurred, but the Americans were just trying to do what needed to be done, too bad no other country had the guts to do it!! Saddam and his Baath thugs deserved what they got. And now we are seeing the Iraqi people have gotten what they deserve, FREEDOM!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Joe Bruce — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:27:50 GMT

Simply put; Thank you Mr Bush.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Sheri — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:30:33 GMT

How about everyone stop speculating... You are not directly involved in what is happening so please believe you have NO IDEA of what is really going on. Let go of the negativity that you feel towards Bush or Obama. If you want to talk about problems, back your statements up by having a solution. People will talk all day but when it comes to taking action, they want to live their own lives and not be involved. Be real, people.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jarred, Cincinnati OH — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:32:31 GMT

Irwin, what planet are you from??? If you read any of this story you would realize that the insurgents were killing people left and right. We are liberating this country from tyranny. Wake UP!! Go hug a tree!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jeremy M. Mesa, AZ — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:33:04 GMT

All of you who say this was Bush who did this are a bunch of morons...Bush didn't do anything our troops have died to free this country and no one else. Leave Obama out of it he hasn't done anything either accept keep a war going that all of you are for. Don't give any credit to the half-tards that run this country but give all of your respect to the men who have shed their blood for the good of Iraq.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

CV — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:33:45 GMT

Hail to the REAL hero...GEORGE BUSH, not this twerp Obama who has already broken several of his BS campaign promises...and now the Ahole liberal media want to hang the credit for the coming peace in Iraq on the dems?? I aint buyin it...
Now for 4 years of more broken promises and a deep money pit all started by CLINTON.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

CV — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:34:09 GMT

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Lively, Findlay, Ohio — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:34:36 GMT

Actually, I would like to see an article where now that the Iraq war has wound down, and Osama Bin Laden is contained in either Pakistan or Afghanistan, that here in the United States the American people are starting to come alive, and feel hope for the future. I'm happy for the Iraquis.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Henry West, Columbia, South Carolina — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:35:42 GMT

I've read all the comment about how the supporters of the war feel so justified against opponets of the war. I've read how opponets of the war reply that we shouldn't have been there in the first place. Personally I don't think we should have gone there, but since we did, it's our responsibility to stay and clean up the mess of insecurity that our armed forces created.

But it amazes me that so many are missing the point of this article. With all the years of constant war and killing, some people are returning to the homes they left in fear of the lives of their families. I for one hope the peace lasts and the lives of the Iraqi people can return to some sort of a normal life in a home that will need lots of rebuilding, physically and emotionally.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Vee, Kentucky — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:36:17 GMT

The country was invaded...No matter how much we as Americans may not have cared for Sadaam, it was not our place to dispose of him. That was for the people of Iraq to decide. However, we made the decision for them and as a result plunge their country into six years of war. Why should the U.S. attempt to pat itself on the back for their feelings of hope at this point and time? We've been the source of their most recent misery...

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

ms cvl tn — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:38:14 GMT

Last year we were the evil empire!! We should have used more humane torture, like acid baths, beheadings, disimbowelments and the media would be happy.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

T Pro — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:38:30 GMT

Please Wake UP Folks... There is no 'winning' in Iraq because we never had clear goals to accomplish, if we remember correctly we were to remove the threat of WMD's not overthrow the gov't. At least that was the lie. you cannot win a game that has no rules or if they change the rules to suit your course.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

edas ranker nashville tn — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:38:44 GMT

irwin. your not american? how about "we".
more innocent people are shot in l.a. in 6 months that have died over there.
you don't know your history.
you liberals have ripped this country apart- and when it splits you better not be in my state.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

PG France — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:39:02 GMT

Stop looking at this history via snaphots, In the end history will reveal that the invasion wasn't worth lives that were lost. History will reveal that there was better way and that we choose to ignore it. I don't know about you but for me over 4000 Americans dead many thousands more disabled and the many thousands of Iraqi civilians killed men women and children...there had to have been a better way.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

R. Baldassari — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:40:10 GMT

Just wondering if anyone from Iraq will ever say thank you to our troops who sacrificed their lives to give the Iraqi people their freedom. All I hear from Iraq is the condemnation of America!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Sal, Texas — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:40:28 GMT

Irwin,

Get your facts straight. Millions were not killed. Yes many died, but not nearly the amount the Sadaam Hussein killed. Also, most did not die at our hands but at the hands of murderous terrorists, militants and thugs.

You want to blame Americans for that. You are ignorant and know nothing about the world.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Justin Morrison, Houston Texas — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:41:30 GMT

just so no one get's confused, Iraqis liked iraq BEFORE the war, there not saying thanks for sticking to your guns, their talking about the massive violence the bush invasion caused, that wouldn't have happened otherwise. Chalibe is the name of the man who said they had wmd's, which we knew they didn't,the republican guys who like to pretend to be warriors by calling themselves hawks used it as an extremely weak case to invade a stategically placed country in their covert war in islam, whether islam is violent or not. By the way, N.Korea has sucked way worse then any place on the planet at any time, they threaten those around them and are rewarded for it and the entire country is basically a concentration camp, but we ain't liberatin them. Bush is not a man, he's a fully grown boy and I'm just so happy that with the internet and the world memory, He won't be able to employ the time honored Aristocratic tradition of re-writing history to paint themselves in the best possible light. This nation rose on the backs of it's citizens, not it's politicians, to include lincoln and washington. they could have never been born and we would still be a great nation.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Brian — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:42:30 GMT

I hope after they start pulling the troops out the security and peace remains.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Daniel Peterson - Minnesota — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:42:49 GMT

I hope President Obama is willing to be flexiable and return if nessesary as I am also thinking that when we leave odds are good that some bad people are going to exploit the vacum we left. Also have to belive that if Bush would not have done what was nessesary and went with the popular thing to do, for sure Iraq would be a haven for al-quda! Let's just hope the Mullah's allow minoritys to prosper and live in peace vs. ethnic cleansing again! Which is also what I think will probebly happen when the sherrif leave town!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tom from Denver — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:43:08 GMT

Ugh liberals. "We shouldn't be over there" "We've destroyed their countries" blah blah blah. Aren't liberals supposed to be the people who are looking out for others? Wouldn't the removal of oppression be considered a positive change? Liberals are good for thing alone, complaining.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Max Wood, So Cal. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:43:47 GMT

Nice story. Too bad the lefties can't admit we have been successful. No matter how much success we have it will need to be branded as shameful because the left hates American and long for the good old days of Viet Nam Syndrome. That is why Reid, Pelosi, Obama et al all worked so hard to guaranty defeat. The irony is, even though Obama still can't admit the "Surge" worked, it is exaclty his new game plan for Afghanistan. Go figure.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Pete Dene, London UK — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:45:15 GMT

Amazing that some people here still think the invasion (it was obviously an invasion Rick Raddatz - you were not invited in!!!) was justified! Iraq is just starting to recover after 6 years of misery inflicted by the US (mainly) and UK without any justification! Uncounted hundreds of thousands died, millions injured or traumatised, because Saddam ceased being the US puppet he had been when he was gassing the Iranians and Kurds.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Al Holmgren, Blaine MN — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:46:30 GMT

I just watched a documentory titled "Heavy Metal in Baghdad." It talked about metal heads that moved to Syria to get away from the violence and how they were less then nothing in Syria. Hopefully those guys get to go home and get there band back together. Acrassicauda is the name of this band, check them out. METAL FOREVER!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

R Thomas — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:46:41 GMT

"The Iraq War is lost."
- General Harry Reid, 04/19/07

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

David Bronx, New York, New York — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:47:09 GMT

Alright you jerks, $1 trillion dollars and over 4,000 dead Americans and the bills keep mounting. Obviously it wasn't your children, family members or friends that were killed for this end. Do you really think it was worth the price tag in human life and our economic resources? Do you idiots even know that we borrowed all the money for this from China? Probably not, you think it was paid for by petty cash and since you were never forced to see the flag draped coffins coming back to the states then the deaths and the cost mean nothing to you! There are over 2.5 million displaced Iraquis and tens of thousands dead because of this war but you're all home safe and sound with your easy rider rifle racks and cold Busweisers, yeah thanks Bush for that and our now failed economy and enormous deficit partly due to the cost of the war. No it was not worth it.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jeff, Medina, Ohio — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:47:58 GMT

I'm just so thankful for President Obama. He's got the economy & Iraq turned around already! Can't wait to see him on Leno tonight! What a genius!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jerry D, Ft. Wayne, Indiana — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:48:16 GMT

Talk about looking at the world through rose-colored glasses! Let's see, people afraid to live in their own homes and neiborhoods, and we're crediting or blaming Bush or Obama for that. I'm confused. Most Iraqis don't want us there. Doesn't that tell you conservatives something. I guess not. You pretend to know what is better for the Iraqis than they do. If you're so smart, why did your president ruin this country and Iraqs?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Flyingchef1 — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:48:20 GMT

And somehow Obama will find a way to make this his victory! What a pathetic excuse for an American leader!
Well done Bush for never listening to the screaming liberals!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Kandi Sikkema — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:48:21 GMT

When is the government ever going to start a currency exchange with the iraq dinar. I know the soldiers talked about this money but in not trading with our federal reserve.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Chris, Kirkuk, Iraq — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:48:34 GMT

The story begins telling of a man who lost his family in the Dora section of Baghdad in June of 07. I spent 15 months partoling the streets of Dora and during the time of that mans horror. I am glad to see he can go home again and that the efforts of the US Soldier made it possible. Thats what is important not a petty political stance.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Chris, Kirkuk, Iraq — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:48:40 GMT

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

louis — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:51:26 GMT

with bush out the militants are leaving or unable to gain new member like before.they dont need to fight because the war is ending as promised by iraq government and obama diplomacy not war won at the end! try talking to some iraqis stupid!

lb,
Iraq

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

John Casey, Hatboro, Pa — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:53:15 GMT

Wow, looks like alot of people would luv to get on thier knees and give Bush, you know what. Yes, Iraq is turning around but the basis for invasion was a complete lie. Remember right after 9/11, Bush and Cheney set up the policy of "Afganistan first, the Iraq second but most important" It was illegal and we were all lied to. Dont thank Bush for turning Iraq around, thank our military and Petreus for developing a new strategy, paying off people just like the taliban along with more training of Iraqi forces. The Iraqi's themselves should also be thanked. They decided to put it on their own shoulders finally and were tired of the bloodshed caused by Al-Qauda(which wern't even in Iraq before our invasion. And it was an invasion. Obama is just doing what should have been done from the jump. He's switching the focus to Afganistan and to do so, we need to free up troops and equipment from Iraq. Iraqi's themselves want to fight to establish thier own country and be proud. Bush's eight years in office were an embaressment and for you people to think that obama is screwing everything up-he's been in office for not even 3 months and he's gotten more done that Bush did his entire term! I always wondered where we'd be if Bush didnt buy the election and steal it from Gore?. Think about it! no war, less dependence on oil, better global pressence, and more science! Oh well. we all need to get passed stupid differences and support Obama. I supported Bush after 9/11, and although obama's problems arent as tragic as 9/11, they are just as dire. So instead of complaining and doing nothing, republicans(which you're quite good at), lets try to work together

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

jed myers memphis tn — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:53:46 GMT

i am glad the iraqis feel safe again.to give bush the credit would be a horrible mistake.it is the soldiers who went and fought when called that won this deal for us,it was still a war that should not have happened.if any other country had tried it we would say that it was unjustified,we are not the police of the world but a member of a greater world that involves all human race wether arab american or asian or latino.when we start focusing on ourselves and our flaws the world follows suite remember actions speak louder then words and under bush america was hated and seen as a bully.diplomacy is better then killing millions of people.before we invaded the arab leaders in that part of the country had it set up where saddam was leaving.instead bush caused thousands of american deaths and millions of lost homes and iraqi lifes cause in the right wing it is better to go to war then use diplomatic skills.why be polite when you can force your views on other people.wait that was why we wanted saddam out of there

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Amerian Proud in Kansas — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:54:12 GMT

Time will reveal more and more that Pres. Bush was a man of honor. Not a power hungry egotistical man like someone I can think of right now.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

R Doe — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:55:04 GMT

Liberals really do have a mental illness. All is well now that Obama the Great is president.

Hopeful Iraqis. Peace and stability. Everything has changed in 50 days! O Great One, thank you for this blessed victory, after the devil Bush! ALL HAIL OBAMA! Bleeeh...

And to all peaceniks, get a clue. WE ALL DIE! Nobody gets out of here alive! The type of life you live while you exist DOES matter. And evil people, I.E. Saddam, exist! You ignore truth. Countries who said Saddam had WMDs before the war: US, Britain (MI5), Russia, Israel, France, even China. This was the information that was available before the war.

And Saddam was a MONSTER.

Were they all wrong? Insofar as a big stock pile, yes. But some WMDs were found, though they were old. And a MONSTER was removed from power!

Finally, the fact is NO civilian would have EVER been killed if terrorists (insurgents, whatever) and Baathists had not continued fighting for 6 years. Ever heard of Al Queda in Iraq? It took 2 sides, people. And I guarantee we killed a lot less than the terrorists.

But liberals live inside a make believe bubble. That's why they are dangerous.

(BTW, don't print this because it's "attacking"? What do you call "no thanks to the Americans. We can's lose sight of the enormity of the crime in this unsanctioned invasion, justified by lies." I find that VERY INSULTING as an American! And I'm sure it's aimed at ME as someone who was for the war, getting rid of the MONSTER, and bring stability and peace to the country. Are you just one way, NBC?)

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

j walker — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:56:37 GMT

Saddam was a "control freak"? That seems a litle harsh for someone who ordered chemical weapons attacks on his own country as well as on the Irainians during that war. Never mind the invasion of Kuwait or the decades long surpression (i.e. murder) of Shiites.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Will C. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:56:38 GMT

...the U.S. has enough problems of it's own. When are we going to take care of our own BEFORE we help others.

We're so quick to be the "hero" on the playground and kick the bully's butt. However, doing that everyday, the hero never gets to rest, never gets to go home.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

World Traveller — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:57:32 GMT

Really? To the guy who said he is glad Bush stuck to his guns? Iraq turning a corner has nothing to do with Bush...let's not forget, the culture and life of Iraq is as old as civilization itself. Civilization started there. They are getting back the life that Bush's war took from them. Saddam would have fallen and we would not have lost thousands of American lives and countless Iraqi lives and the result would have been the same...Saddam would be gone and Iraq would be on their way to recovery. We as a nation have no right ot force our style of government on anyone...if the people choose to revolt and change their government it is their choice. But to force them to accept it is not democracy...it is just another form of dictatorship...You think the shoe incedent was not how most iraqi's feel? I would have hit bush with a truck instead. The man is a war criminal and deserves to be put on trial.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

D. Tripp — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 19:59:29 GMT

Having worked in the media industry for a number of years, I realized that we are only privy to what the media allows us to know. We are so busy just trying to make ends meet that we do not have the time to research what we are being allowed to hear. I hope that we have not made a large mistake based on the liberal media, who now appears to even be attacking their choice.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Aleets, NY — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:00:22 GMT

It's hard to believe I'm reading this coming from the MSN website (affiliated with left-wing NBC & radical left-wing Bush-hating MSNBC). An actual optimistic piece on the successes in Iraq! So, does George W. Bush finally get credit for the newfound "democracy" in Iraq? Oh-right--I forgot! The happiness of the Iraqis' is because Obama is President, right? Where is the Victory Parade for our returning brave men & women with former Commander-in-Chief Bush leading our troops? Saddam is gone-there is a "democratic" form of government in Iraq and we have our President George W. Bush, our troops, the Iraqi people themselves who always wanted and now have "freedom" to thank--no one else! Thank you George W. Bush & our brave troops.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

The Truth — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:01:39 GMT

I love how the liberals get on here and say that the US Military killed "millions" of Iraqis...sorry lib-tards but NOT true. Show me proof of this, the "militants" that we're fighting against us caused 90% of Iraqi civilian casualties....now go read a book.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

alex lekas asheville nc — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:02:00 GMT

what have we imported, Alexandra? For one thing, we have imported the spirit of freedom and self-determination, something that must seem foreign to navel-gazing bed-wetters like you who, by default, see the US as the villain in everything. Had you the ability to read, you would have taken note of people who had 1) had loved ones executed by the regime we toppled, 2) been forced from their neighborhoods by the insurgents seeking to fill the vacuum, and 3) understood what freedom means to people who have only dreamed of it.

How sad that the likes of you, who grew up in freedom complete with the ability to spew your brand of "opinion" without fear of retribution, has no clue what liberty means. Amazing how you can think that people would be better off in nations where killings, kidnappings, and disappearances were once commonplace.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

john nicols, arlington va — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:02:26 GMT

I wish the Iraqi people the best.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Scott from Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:02:34 GMT

The Iraqi people should be on their knees thanking George W. Bush. As has been said before, history will show that W was right and one of our greatest presidents. Look at the first few weeks of Obama. Supposedly the great savior. What a disaster. Obama and Jimmy Carter will eventually become the worst we have ever had.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Richard, Vancouver, Washington — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:02:39 GMT

War is terrible and ugly. I quess when we were attacked by the terrorists we could have just done nothing and put our heads in the sand and HOPED that we didn't get attacked again. But the terrorists wanted to kill US and still do. Just like the Natzis of Germany and Taoist of Japan, Destroy democracy and then take over the world, same agenda. We did not ask for war in 1942, but war came any way. There was only one war but we took the battle to these terrorist where ever we had to. Africa, middle east, Italy, France, Denmark and then to Germany. In the Pacific it was the islands of the pacific, Phillipines, China, and then to Japan. One war many fronts. The same today, the terrorists, however they look are motivated by the same beliefs. We are engaged with one war, but there are different fronts to this war. God bless America!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

T, Tucson, Arizona. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:02:55 GMT

I like the way alex puts it this is a very sad war.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tanto Hernendaz — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:04:05 GMT

if we pull out now it will be fine, right. no we will just have to fight the same war again and again. finish the job and do it right so we dont have to do it again

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

TSBaltimore — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:05:17 GMT

I suppose all of you saying that this is more of a congratulations to Bush, aren't realizing that the reason Al-qaida were in Iraq in force in the first place, is our BOGUS reasons for invading the country. When we should have been in Afghanistan...Ah oh yeah Afghanistan remember that place? Where the mastermind of 9/11 was when we went into Iraq. Don't pat Bush on the back for cleaning up a mess he made in the first place. Just incase your gonna go here next...I am glad Sadaam is out!!! But that wasn't in turn keeping America safe by taking on a BOGUS war.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Steven Penn, Chicago, IL. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:05:52 GMT

This would have come about alot faster if the Liberals didn't give Al Qaida hope at every turn.
They caused many deaths. Ah well, what ever gets them elected I geuss.
We should all just read Al jazier newspaper it's the same as ours.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

A Sane Person, Planet Earth — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:06:20 GMT

Obama brings hope to the entire world.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

jerry — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:07:36 GMT

Irwin, we were going to have to fight this guy, do you think, we should have waited till he had nuclear weapons?
Did you think he was building and maintaining a huge armed forces Chemical war capability, Bacterialogical war capability as a hobby, for god's sake.
You do remember a man, by the name of Hitler, don't you?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Robert — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:08:36 GMT

I am pleased that the people in Iraq are able to begin their process of rebuilding, it's been along time coming. Had the previous administration been more interested in follow through and keeping contractors honest I believe that this process would have been started years ago. Despite the absence of WMD's, the former leader of Iraq was very hard on his people and needed to be removed, had our government approached this situation honestly (The Iraqi government had nothing to do with 9-11) and with compassion much of death could have been avoided.

May God bless and keep the Iraqi's and truly unite their country in peace and harmony

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

JOSH, LAS VEGAS, NV — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:08:44 GMT

TO ROBERT CANADA SADDAM WAS A LOT MORE THAN AN IDIOT AND CONTROL FREAK YOU ARE VERY NAIVE SADDAM WAS EVIL AND A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER TO THE WHOLE WORLD. LIBERALS LIKE YOU NEVER LEARN TO NOT REPEAT THE MISTAKE OF NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN OF UNDERESTIMATING AND DOWNPLAYING TRUE EVIL IN THE WORLD. IT IS VERY LIKELY NOW THAT THE U.S. WILL BE ATTACKED AGAIN SINCE OBAMA HAS TAKEN AWAY THE INTELLIGENCE METHODS THAT WORKED PERFECTLY (WITHOUT ANY SUCCESSFUL ATTACK) SINCE 9/11. EVERYONE WHO VOTED FOR THIS UNQUALIFIED AND HOPELESSLY INEXPERIENCED GUY WILL BE FEELING VERY SORRY IF THAT HAPPENS.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

gilroy, cleveland — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:11:56 GMT

The title of the article is "Many Iraqis feeling alive again" --- AGAIN --- I repeat...AGAIN. As in: they were feeling alive before Bush and Cheney decided to invade a sovereign nation, rip apart the infrastructure and internal security apparatus and throw the country into 6 years of turmoil.

I'm glad the Iraqis are begining to feel hope again and are regaining their sense of security ---- I just wish that the Bush administration's misplaced aggression hadn't stolen it from them in the first place.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Greg-Illinois — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:12:55 GMT

I was under the assumption that a President alone cannot go to war. I thought that congress had to vote for things of this nature. And please dont tell me that they were lied to. I would think (and hope)that each of them did their own investigating before agreeing to something of this magnitude. Of course they didnt do this and since its real easy, they now place all the blame on Bush. Shame on them!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

JP Albuquerque, NM — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:13:02 GMT

Iraqis may now holster their shoes and thank GWB.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Andrew, Washington DC — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:13:43 GMT

I'm so sorry, but GOD had nothing to do with our hapless and misdirected (and yes falsified) pretext for invading Iraq and bringing it to ruin. The GOD I know, does not sanction murdering of innocents, torture or lying to the public. Bush misappropriated, and yes, manipulated Christian America into believing somehow he represented their values. The fact that Iraq is "less terrible" now than it once was is no testiment to George W Bush. It has only to do with sacrifices of our troops and Iraqis themselves taking more control.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

George W. Bullshite, The darkest crevice on Earth — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:13:49 GMT

Matthew 5:5 "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth."

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

A Soldier- Illinois — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:16:01 GMT

I find it interesting that so many people feel that they have the qualifications to decide what it is that Americans should or should not do. Also, many of you speak as though you have asked the Iraqi people what they think about our presence in their country or if it has benefited them. The ones I met were truly grateful. Like Americans, they have different opinions but as we know you can not please everyone all of the time. No single person won the war and honestly in war there is no "winning" everyone loses something but in the midst of this, you hope that you have helped someone and made a difference. Do not judge what you do not know and unless you have seen it first hand, YOU DO NOT KNOW.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

F. Raymer, Salisbury, NC — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:14:09 GMT

Sickens me to hear the spoiled brats in the U.S. still whining about the liberation we afforded these poor souls in Iraq. A mother & son tortured, submersed in sulfuric acid, then shot: This is not an isolated incidence, but just one example of the horror & fear these people were forced to face every day. Mainstream Bush-hating media did not present the ugly facts solely for political reasons. Many Iraqis are experiencing a security like never before. Jerry D: The only Iraqis that don't want us there are the stupid fanatical freaks we are helping the good citizens of the country get rid of! Duh! The Nazi's sure didn't welcome the liberation forces in their country, either! Liberals: Get your heads out of the sand! The real world is not like your fairyland.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Julian, Dallas TX — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:36:30 GMT

The Iraqis never asked for our help with removing Saddam Hussein. Some Iraqis actually liked Saddam, just like some ignorant Americans love emperor Bush. This talk from republican-voting Bush jockstraps of how we "gave them democracy" and "Saddam was evil" is a bunch of BS.

We didn't go into Iraq to bring democracy, that was a lie. Bush told us we were going in for weapons of mass destruction which to this very day, have never been found. The war was a lie and most republican morons know it. They are just the kind of people who hate to admit they're wrong. Like Bush. There was no real "war" in Iraq to win.Unless you call US troops murdering unarmed civilians a war.

May the Iraqi citizens who survived the brutal US holocaust, find peace for theirs and their loved ones souls.

Shame on the USA for electing an evil animal like George Bush.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

powakai, counts me hard working lucky — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:39:41 GMT

I see nothing here but people out for blood. If all people spent more time applying themselves to helping the person right next to them instead of attacking ideas eventually (after a few million or so deaths) chances are one by one we may be one. God that sounds so socialist. And I am not into that. It's just the best thing we have right now for getting along. I am not talking about love.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

powakai, counts me hard working lucky — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:43:36 GMT

Thank you Soldier from IL. Do you need a job?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Vincent Migliore — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:44:16 GMT

I served in Baghdad as an intelligence officer for an infantry unit in 2006-2007, the height of the sectarian conflict. I find it hard to believe things will be smooth after we withdraw. Both sides of the mititia's, sunni or shia will come back with a vengeance. One of my responsibilities was working with the Iraqi security forces, mainly the national police, it was sad to see how they performed. Mark my work it is not finished.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Gordon Peterson, Bemidji, mn. — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:13:46 GMT

My son just graduated from Ft. Benning Ga. and is now in Ft. Louis in Washington headed for either Iraq or Afganistan. I'm a product of this world of 61 yrs. After reading some of these comments I was compelled to at least say someting. This great country will survive all this. Our constitution is based on truth and justice for all. These petty speculations and short minded comments disturb my innermost being. We lost many more lives in the fight for freedom than 4000 lives. There is a great task ahead of us. There is tirranicle forces at work to distroy ALL of US. That means the United States of America. If we don't pull together at this time we will all be doomed. We have never been in a situation as we are today. I voted for Obama, but I have buyers remorse in the worset possible way. I did'nt realize he was a pyde pipper. He speaks as well as anyone with a telepromter and sounds better than HITLER. We have a greater battle here at home in taking back our country. One can complain about the cost of the war, but NO-ONE has spent this nation into oblivion as Obama has in just 7 weeks. All these comments before mean nothing compared to whats in store for this country unless we get this guy under control. For him to go on Leno to sell his agenda is a childish act by someone who is like a deer in the headlights. Foolish. Let's all fight the fight that needs to be fought at home. Get ride of this idiot before it's too late.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Irwin — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:20:01 GMT

Yeah, I know America is blessed by God. The hell with the rest of the world. It's that type of attitude that will be the death-knell of the U.S. I'm sure a lot of you arm-chair patriots would love to fight to spread this empire. Remember that over the last 50 years the good old U.S of A has been the greatest purveyor of death, not the Soviet Union , Iraq, or Iran.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Brad — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:24:33 GMT

The level of ignorance and stupidity that most of you exhibit in these comments is simply amazing. Its no wonder this country is going downhill right now.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mark, Santa Barbara, California — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:33:31 GMT

Left wing media? Everything's on your left if you're always standing on the far-right.

Did you read the article? A man's wife and son were tortured, bathed in acid and murdered, in just one example of hundreds of thousands of ultra-violent acts that occurred because Bush/Cheney/Rumsfield invaded a country on false pretenses so their friends could control the flow of oil, without planning for, or caring about, what happened next. George W. Bush hurt way more Iraqis than Saddam.

Terrorists recruited thousands by pointing to Bush's self-righteous, condescending and arrogant policies. Many impressionable young muslims were converted to haters of the U.S. because of Bush/Cheney/Rumsfield.

Thankfully, Obama has shown the world that Americans are truly good people and our country can once again be looked up to as the shining beacon of truth, honor, freedom, equality, fairness and democracy, as we once were.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

agnstheflow — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:21:55 GMT

Liberals Blaming Bush again like a buch of broken records....The whole idea to go into Iraq started with Clinton.
Remember his Iraq Liberation Act in 1998????
http://www.fas.org/news/iraq/1998/11/01/981101-in.htm

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Ed — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:29:39 GMT

Most of you people don't seem to get it! we Invaded and ruined their way of life for 6 years. It wasn't our business and we should not have gone in. Things are only getting better because we're leaving and there is now light at the end of the tunnel.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

mike — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:33:16 GMT

Let's not forget to thank Dick Cheney too, for making Halliburton so prosperous at our expense. The war was a transfer of billions in wealth to private contractors while our soldiers endured low pay, repeated deployments and an administration that didn't even have the guts to provide them medical attention when they returned home. Obama is just cleaning up the messes that Cheney-Bush left.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

older and disheartened — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:48:05 GMT

reading comments reveals the horrible ignorance of the person on the street.makes me want to take a hot shower.Just keep going and forget it.Hopeless and we all suffer from the results, which affect all that is done at any level.A world of dolts with votes!My dog is smarter.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

howsithangin, Honolulu, HI — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 01:27:10 GMT

Louis,
Do I have this right? You're giving "Obama diplomacy" credit for this? What have you been smoking? Seriously. How drug-addled to you have to be to believe that?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

J, glen ellyn, il — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 01:46:11 GMT

Hmmmm. that's pretty much all I have to say about that.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Kathy, Utah — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:01:29 GMT

I'm happy for the Iraqis, it is awful to live in fear all the time. I was born and raised German and I am now American by choice. Iraq reminds me a bit of the German history. Germans used to live in fear of their own neighbors, even kids were brain washed in the "Hitler Jugend". Look at Germany roughly 70 years later! Back then during the war a lot of Germans did not like Americans, we were in a war. America introduced potato bugs to Germany to starve the population, but at the same time America droped care packages over Germany. Love grew out of that hateful relationship. American troops were and are stationed in Germany for so many years now. But the important part is that Germany is free.
The same thing will happen to Iraq. History has its way of repeating itself. In 70 years we will see a free Iraq with very minimal American troops there and there will be a tight friendship between Americans and Iraqis. Even without oil!
As much as so many people swore at Bush, he saw the vision that all Iraqis can and will be free. He saw the humans not the "Arabs" that almost everybody hates. Bush is and was not evil, and he is for sure not his fathers puppet. Personally I respect Bush very much for his ability to see HOPE where none was.
Yes the war is expensive and a lot of lifes were lost, but they were lost for a honest and honerable reason. Personally I rather keep terrorists busy in an arabic country than having to fear another 9/11 on home soil. Soldiers are trained to take on terrorists, civilians aren't and that is what happened at 9/11. Congress knew that too that's why Congress agreed to go in and help the Iraqis who would have been killed. The people in Congress aren't stupid they knew that there was a good chance that there were no weapons of mass distraction, but they also didn't want to see American civilians in danger so they send the trained soldiers to keep the terrorists busy! and not on US soil.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Gabe Orlando Florida — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:16:42 GMT

George Bush is the son of god history will reward him remenber Ronald reagan No body like pain but enjoy the benefit from the pain It take time to cultivate anything preparing the soil is the hardest part of it. Go bush Thereis no revolution without blood. In 4 year from now the Irakis will be benefited from it and Irack will be a model democratic State .

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Brian Franklin Nebraska — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:31:43 GMT

Was not worth it? Since we made it clear what we will do to those haboring terrorists how many attacks have been made in the U.S.? I will glady serve another 18 months in their world to keep all of you self centered whiners safe from experiencing the sight of people living in fear of their nieghbor or from the caranage of a suicide bomber. The Iraqis don't want us there? huh You must of talked to different ones then I did. The day I witnessed their first election all we were told was thank you for coming.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Rob, Williamsburg, VA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:34:07 GMT

At long last the US's sheer determination and the will of the Iraqi people has stabilized the country despite countless blunders and astronomical costs. The US has found a new ally, cast out a dictator, and introduced democracy to Iraq, but at what cost? At best, we are marginally more secure, and if one believes in the inherent virtue of democracy I guess we've got that going for us too. The world's only superpower won't be super for long if it continues to squander geopolitical capital on anything less than imminent and unimagined security threats. We need the intelligence capabilities to ID these and avoid the sort of "freedom crusade" that the neocons recast the war as.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Patriot to the core — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:49:16 GMT

What BS comments on our presidents and how our country handles matter. Dont like it,go live somewhere else. Remeber the saying,
"America, love it or leave it" stop your bitching and get off.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Brian Welcome — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 02:58:07 GMT

What makes me sick is to see all of the young people in the US buy into the garbage that they learn from all of the liberal hippie professors in our universities. They all condemn the US with the luxury of knowing that they will not be thrown in jail because we have something called the 1st Amendment. Well, Iraqis do not have that luxury so of course they will tell you that it is all the fault of the US and this was an invasion. That is what their gov wants them to say, so they say it. Our press is partly responsible for the deaths of our soldiers as they would only report on the negative stories (i.e Abu Graib), thus causing a bad image of the US abroad. Stories like this would have never been published in WWII because our press had class and the respect of our military. Wake up, our country has gone to the dogs and been overruned by liberal fascists.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Patty, Southern CA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 03:25:10 GMT

Destroying a country for no reason, and then restoring it to a somewhat normal state 6 years later is not, by any means, "sucess."

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Chas David , York, Pa. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 03:25:34 GMT

All the idiots on this blog that support the war and Bush/Cheney are stupid and hateful. Their little brains can only see black/white,win/lose. They aren't capable of understanding the danger to the Constitution that the Bush administration was. Spying on the American people, locking up U.S. citizens without representation {this means throwing away the keys if your having trouble following},torturing people without knowing if they are innocent or guilty, politicizing the justice department are just some of the things these criminals have done. Of course you conservative idiots are not capable of realizing the danger in these un-American acts. And I haven't even mentioned bombing babies for no reason, but of course that is okay with you since they are not conservative American babies.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Amanda Smith, New York — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 03:50:20 GMT

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Obama Administration. Lets just face the fact that George Bush was a horrible president.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

John, Colorado Springs — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:03:13 GMT

Lincoln and Washington were great leader's that led this country in very trying times (Justin-the people do greater things with the right leadership). Also, this country was built by the explorer, pioneer, cowboy-entrepreneur spirit-not the liberal I want to feel good about myself spirit. I was thanked by many Iraqi's when I was over there. The violence was perpetuated by people that wanted Iraq to fail as a free state and by American politicians/people that wanted Bush to be a failure--risking the lives of US servicemembers for political gain.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

1/A 1-4 CAV — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:28:27 GMT

Like it or not the surge worked. Its funny that guy mentions Dora, I got blown up there when this was happening. I hear its a lovely place to live now, just took a bit of cleaning up before it was livable again.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Karen, Clarkston, Wa. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:38:48 GMT

It doesn't matter who started the Iraq crap or who thinks they did a good thing or a bad thing. If any of you would look at history NO ONE HAS EVER WON A RELIGIOUS WAR. All of the Middle East is in a Religious War of sorts all the time. Why they can't live together in PEACE is their problem. Sometimes I think it would be better if we closed our Borders, had no Immigration and built everything in America and let the rest of the World do the same we'd be a lot better off. Course we can't do that as we a nation of immigrants, we've just forgotten that the Constition says: GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PEOPLE. IT EVEN BEGINS WE, THE PEOPLE. Don't know where the PEOPLE when but we sure have a lot of GOVERNMENT and they aren't too smart.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Doug FUrr, Culpeper,VA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:39:32 GMT

Wow, I have read every post till here. Out of every comment thrown from left to right, and back again, I am recalling the old video game PONG. But to the point:
Nobody has disagreed with the US bombing Iraq to the middle ages when they invaded their neighbor back in the late 80s.(wasnt it?) Once Saddam pulled back, we set up all sorts of rules and junk Saddam was to "not do", and we stopped. Many Iraqi's rose up (or attempted to), to overthrow Saddam. They did this in the belief the US was about to help liberate them. Notice the word LIBERATE? OK. So many years later, and too many violations from Saddam to count,and many, many Iraqi's murdered by Saddam for their uprising, 9-11 occurs. So, regardless of weather Saddam had WMD's, the US was justified and had international legal authority under terms Saddam had agreed to. (You remember the thousands of times there were ground to air radar locks on our jets, and even a few surface to air missle launches. Of course there were also the hundreds of no fly zone violations, etc...you get the point?) So why was everyone so suprised and upset with Bush jr? He was simply doing what his father SHOULD have done. The US is responsible for every crime Saddam and his sons did to the Iraqi people. Knowing this, when given power by Congress to invade (I prefer Liberate) any country Bush said was needed, he took the chance. History will hopefully prove it the best choice, even with the fact we still need UBL's head. If Iraq continues the way it should, the US will no longer be looked at with disdain in the middle east. How could anyone not see the US in a different light in say, 10-15 years. Think about a peacefull Iraq. A peacefull Afganistan, and Pakistan. How our children will truely be the ones benefiting. We will have finally restored our true face to the world. We only come to help. Sadly, we do not always get involved when needed. Or get involved later than we could have. It is up to actions taken NOW that determine how history plays out. Not History determining now. Stop looking back and saying "we should have....", and do something that will be remembered.
Good Luck Iraq
Thank God for the US military. Salute.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

rich g new york city — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:47:06 GMT

Thank God for our soldiers who put their lives on the line. May they return home safely. All you liberals should thank these soldiers and those that came before them. The freedom that they have fought for has allowed you liberals to get fat, rich and truly let you express your anti-American sentiments. Shame on you!!! When America is attacked again I hope to see you on the front lines fighting. Oh foolish me why would you be. You want all the freedom of being an American without earning or fighting for it. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tony, Chantilly, VA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:54:12 GMT

Let's see the Battle for Iraq from a purely military point of view, shall we? We moved into Iraq and 1)Deposed a brutal dictator 2)Engaged our real enemy al-Queda, and dealt them a strategic loss 3)All the while maintaining the battle's initiative (with the exception of some sticky moments in 2004 and 2006). Overall, I would say- again from a purely military POV- the Battle for Iraq is a resounding success. Let's hope we can keep al-Queda on the run. I'd much rather have the roadside bombs detonate in Basra & Baghdad than Boston & Baltimore....

....well, maybe not so much Baltimore. What a dump!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jack Wilson — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 04:55:46 GMT

Hell, it was only a couple years ago Obama would have trained in Pakistan and went to Iraq to kill Americans. Now he can do it right from the White House with our on people. Ain't liberalism grand???

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jack Wilson — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 05:07:38 GMT

Irwin of Thousand Oaks is a typical weak kneed liberal, tofu eating Californian. When is the big one going to hit California and Nevada becomes our west coast. Vietnam was a defeat because of DEMOCRATS AND LIBERAL COLLEGE STUDENTS. And, history showed it was a just war. Take a look what happened in Cambodia, Laos and South Vietnam. Millions killed in the name of social communism/share the wealth.
Oh, MSMBC, CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, NPR, public television will NEVER use any terms other than INVASION, KILLINGS, ABU, GITMO.....nothing about the beheadings, mass murder of civilians by arabs, no schools for females, ....JUST America in the wrong. Well, sorry, maybe the war could have been planned better..I think it could...but mistakes happen. Hell, we just had one. We elected a man of change and nothing changed....lobbyists in the administration, non tax paying senior officials, secret meetings to draft bills, secret meetings with unions, disrespecting our allies ("Get that damn thing out of here"...obama referring to a bust of Wiston Churchill.) Can you believe that? They sent it back to the British Embassy in Washington. What is he going to replace it with? OJ, Sharpton, Jessee?
And gave the PM of Britain a bunch of DVD's? The man is straight trailer trash and in charge of the US.
I'm looking for change....January 2013. If we even have a country. First, Bill Clinton gets blown in White House and then blows his sax on Leno. Tonight, Obama on Lena....talk about two jokes.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

MJB, NPR, FL — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 05:16:58 GMT

Ok guys, here is a quick test.

1. Scroll to the top of the page
2. Hit Crtl + F, in the search box that appears. Type Obama
3. Hit Next, where is the first result? Oh..it's in the comments.

Gee, there is 15+ comments stating that 'liberals and democrats' are taking credit for the victory. Yet the article itself doesn't even mention Obama's name once. Angry Republicans, people do not call you stupid because you barely passed high school. They don't call you stupid because you associate with conservative values.

They call you stupid because you prove it every single time you open your mouth.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Shelley Nielsen — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 06:00:35 GMT

Hey...the Iraqi's that were killed would have been killed if we were there or not. If we only lost 4000 military personal, I would call that a success. Oh...yes I know the price was high, my husband and son in law were in the military. This was a job that had to be done. War (and the politicians know this) is a necessary evil. I think we need to so increase our military budget, raise taxes for the military. We need to move on and do the same in some other countries as well. Something has to be done about the Congo.
Shelley Nielsen Sanchez

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

paul blaine, west covina CA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 06:48:30 GMT

right wing morons all of you are ignorant, dumb and blind!!! Why were we there again, come on answer the question rambo?!?!?! dumb dumb dumb

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Disgusted by the hypocrites! The World — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 06:51:31 GMT

Just wondering if anyone from Iraq will ever say thank you to our troops who sacrificed their lives to give the Iraqi people their freedom. All I hear from Iraq is the condemnation of America!

R. Baldassari (Sent Thursday, March 19, 2009 3:40 PM)
_____________________________________________________

the arrogance of the right-wing is disgusting!!

You justify the war because brave people are finding some hope after 6 years of HELL unleashed on them for what?? WMD's??!!
How thankful would you be for your "freedom" if you had to hold your dying baby in your hands and watch your precious child breathe its last breath because of bullet lodged in his brain. Is that the kind of freedom Americans want for themselves? Yet the boast and gloat over that for Iraqis.
Arrogant, stup!d right wingers! How about you watch your children die and have foreigners justify how it's okay and just collateral damage for the greater good!! Would you be thankful for that?
No, I didn't think so. See that's the problem with Conservatives, you can't see far enough past your pointed noses to empathize with anyone outside of yourself.
Parents are not grateful for burying their children regardless of which country they are from!!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

James NW — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 07:02:02 GMT

Thank to Bush that we wasted a trillion dollars and 4000+ good American lives for a stupid war. Imagine that money being used for our country schools, roads, and investment.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tyler, Oceanside, CA — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 07:37:38 GMT

In the end, none of us have any idea what is going on over there... we merely observe and comment. So useless and lazy, eh? To anyone who has comments about the war - Quiet down! Talk to the men and women fighting it?
Oh, by the way - 4000 lives? Not a good thing, but we lost a hella lot more in a goddamn day in WWII, and a hella lot more in Vietnam.
I'm going to be joining the Marines in a year or so, and I hope that when I come back, I meet some of you people who believe America is all about bringing the world down. What's wrong with believing in a better manner of life for people? It's not politics, at it's base. People deserve to live free and should have the right to pursue whatever they want. That's what this country was founded upon, and unfortunately, why the leftists haven't been shot yet.
Cheers~!
-Never meet me. Ever. If we get into a conversation about politics, I may simply tell you to support your country for once in your spoiled, pampered life, and learn what we really stand for. Then I will leave, knowing I am much, much more proud than you.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mrs K — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 07:38:44 GMT

Right on David! You are so right and all of the cry-baby Republicans can not come to terms with the fact that W led us down the rosy path for a big fat lie! Squandered our money and reputation for returns that will never be fulfilled. Yeah, Thanks for nothing W.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Sadden American — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 08:24:20 GMT

I can't believe that one of you left wing, Cool-Aid drinking, Obaminites actually posted "just so no one get's confused, Iraqis liked iraq BEFORE the war"... what Iraqis like things under Saddam??!?!? Pres. Bush made a dicision that was unpopular, went in and did what needed to be done, and we (the US) condemmed him for it. He made things BETTER and the Iraqi people didn't know what to do with Freedome... so they killed EACH OTHER. The US was not resposible for "... the million killed and the millions displaced". The Iraqi people, along with Syria and Iran, were responsible for that! More Iraqis died at the hands of their brothers and sisters than at the hands of the Americans.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Ricky, Austin — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:19:35 GMT

Some of u people are the most ignorant people in the world I cant believe what im hearing we have lost friends, brothers and fathers to a war that was a lie
everyone knows that the whole world knows that..thats why our image has been screwed up in the eyes of the world and u say the iraqi people are free? we did not go to war for the Iraqi people Dumb____ we went to war for oil...point blank!! so please research things before you say stupid sh_t on these websites people lost their lives for that B.s and that make you happy!!! Please leave our Country u make us look very Stupid!!!!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Jonathan, Clarksville, Tennessee — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:23:47 GMT

Hmmmm, 600000+ Iraqis dead? And for what? For all of those whom proclaim liberals as evil, stop listening to the propaganda espoused by the Bush Administration apologists. How many of you have actually deployed to Iraq? Not known someone who is in the military, not someone who was in the military at one time, but who has actually fought in Iraq? I was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom II in 2004-2005, and trust me, Fallujah in 2004 was not a fun place to be. I was apart of Phantom Fury, and to see numerous casualities in the name of lies told by someone that I once trusted makes me distraught. Maybe I will feel differently in time. There are things that I don't know that, in time, may be revealed and change Bush's status among the American public. Then again, maybe things will be revealed that highlight the Bush Administration as the worst in history. Who knows.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Pete Dene, London UK — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:26:14 GMT

If it wasn't so tragic it would be laughable!
That so many Americans can believe that they did a good job here!
You destroyed that country. Now it is beginning to emerge from the destruction. Naturally the people are happier now they are not being bombed by the US or killed by Al Qaida. Who did more damage there?
But the Iraqis have nothing to thank the US for and a lot to blame you for.
You should be made to leave ASAP and pay for all the damage too.
George Bush should be in jail for the rest of his life for this most heinous crime.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Rob, Ft. Lauderdale FL — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:28:14 GMT

Obviously Iraq is improving because Obama took office on January 20th and waved his magic wang, er, "wand" and made things all better. The terrorists and murderers--who spent a great deal of their time killing their own people just for their religion--now see the light and are learning the lyrics to "Kumbaya" as we speak. No, our rebuilding efforts meant nothing. It was all Obama's doing. We merely had to wait until he arrived to fix the world's wrongs.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

ron wilson, los angeles — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:19:03 GMT

his wife and son were tortured and put in sulfuric acid before being shot and he should thank president bush? sadam was our buddy when we used him to attack iran. any of you idiot bushies heard of the iran iraq war? and kuwait was never our business-bush greenlighted iraqs invasion and then double crossed him to do saudis bidding. and the islamic revolution in iran was in response to our putting the shah in power in the fifties. we had the us fleet in the persian gulf after ww1 as part of wilsons machinations to form the league of nations. this country has so much blood on our hands, we make hitler look like the red cross. but most importantly, you spent my damn money doing it!! all of these things are completely unconstitutional. with present technology we should be able to vote if we want to pay for something like a war- and if only 10% want to pay for it -we just stay home. ww2 was supposedly the heroic effort no one could disagree with. it probably was a mistake too. fifty years later, what do we have? a united europe dominated by germany, and asia dominated by japan. sound familiar? economics decide history- wars are just money making schemes for the arms builders. cheney and halliburton make berney maddof look like a piker- and he didnt kill anybody. you all know bush is going to roast in hell with reagan.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

mike perrine — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:07:15 GMT

To "World Traveller"people like you make me sick. You take a vacation to some poor country lay around drunk and romp along the beaches and think that you know something about the people there. I LIVED and worked in asia for over four years. In fact both were Muslim countries. I LIVED in Indonesia during Suharto's fall. I guess he was another of your heros. People like Saddam and Suharto are murderous killers who seize power through military might and maintain control trough murder and threats of murder. Please go back and hide under your rock and remain uniformed.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

9-11 was INSIDE JOB — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:24:29 GMT

ALL US MILITARY BASES IN IRAQ & AFGHANISTAN SURROUND OIL OR NATURAL GAS PIPELINES. Don't just believe mainstream propaganda like this, do your research. We (not "insurgents"--which is what we call people defending their land, which we would do & call ourselves patriots--US military) KILLED OVER 1 MILLION INNOCENT IRAQIS + HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF INNOCENT AFGHANS & counting, call ourselves “liberators.” Iraq & Afghanistan are colonies, insuring control of Mideast oil & surrounding Mideast's largest power: Iran (ripe for invasion). Our expansion of military bases into East Europe, Mideast & South Asia encircles Russia & China (see US Poland Missile "Shield"--really ARROW AIMED AT RUSSIA & recent US intrusion on Chinese water spying on CHINESE NUCLEAR SUBS, US-INDIA NUCLEAR DEAL, RUSSIA-CHINA NUCLEAR DEAL). Our govt. is pushing us toward WW3. Remember the excuse for invading weak Iraq: we “knew they were involved in 9-11 & had WMD,” which entire govt. knew were both LIES! Don’t be fooled by the next false pretext for war. On 9-11: watch “Loose Change” on YouTube, google World Trade Center tower 7, ask yourself why we never saw jet hit Pentagon & haven’t caught Usama (he’s wanted, but NOT FOR 9-11: http://www.fbi.gov/wanted/terrorists/terbinladen.htm FBI admits there’s “no hard evidence connecting bin Laden to 9-11”). 757s are COMPUTER-CONTROLLED FROM TAKEOFF TO LANDING: HIJACK-PROOF. Mid-air cell calls were IMPOSSIBLE IN 01. NORAD FIGHTER JETS 10 MILES FROM DC & GROUND-TO-AIR MISSILES SURROUNDING PENTAGON WOULD’VE SHOT DOWN 757 EASILY. The only way we can save ourselves from the real terrorists is to DEMAND A REAL 9-11 INVESTIGATION!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Susan Minnesota — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 11:40:13 GMT

David we just buried my cousin who went back 4 times to Iraq. He thought it was well worth the effort and said so many times. Ask the soldiers what they saw and did. Wouldn't you want someone to come to your aid if that was happening in your country? I'm so tired of all the whinning. Stop hugging trees, stand up straight and start actually being productive. Where has common sense gone? Bad guys hurting good people - delete don't jail and feed!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

LD, Iraq — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:02:48 GMT

Great, now can we get the hell outta here?

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Josh, Hartford, CT — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:06:31 GMT

What does liberal vs. conservative have to do with any of this. The election is over people, get over it and move on to real business.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Wes DeFord, Lake Orion, Michigan — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:07:01 GMT

The article didn't mention Bush, Obama, winning or losing, etc. Why don't you all try and intelligently discuss the article instead of continue to repeat the same mindless blather we've heard from both sides for years now?
Some here spew vile contempt on their fellow countrymen. Seems to me, vile contempt of fellow countrymen is a major cause of the problems in Iraq. Your behavior mirrors the behavior of those you would change???

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tom, retired USN, Powder Springs, GA. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:07:02 GMT

Irwin
You are a moron. There is no doubt what we have done in Iraq is liberation from tyrannical rule to the rebirth of hope for the citizens of that county.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Diana, Boston Ma. — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:12:23 GMT

All you Liberals are right..we should have stayed out of Germany and Vietnam and minded our business...if we did we would be a small nation constantly guarding our borders for invasions..you can't pick and chose which scenario you like better..make a pact now to never help any country in the future..in fact announce it in one of your Liberal media outlets...I'd go for that..

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Joseph C, Collingswood, New Jersey — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:12:30 GMT

What a warm fuzzy story. I guess Persian-Disney land, Tehran's first Harley Davidson shop and McDonald's are just around the corner. I'm breaking out the Coke and couscous to celebrate Happy days are here again.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mac, Pennsylvania — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:04:57 GMT

It's nice to hear that security is finally being restored to parts of Iraq. However, the war is still not over. I still do not understand the credit people are giving Bush. Yes, I agree Saddam had to go, but the fact still remains that Bush hurried us into this war under false pretences, without a plan or an exit strategy. Many thousands of lives could have been spared had an actual plan with set goals been conceived BEFORE Bush's Blitzkreig.

Thank you Chris and LB in Iraq...you two had the only 2 comments on here worth a damn.

If the spiteful conservatives and whiney liberals actually knew half of what they THINK they do, the US wouldn't be anywhere near as divided as it has been for at least the last decade. As long as people keep bowing to idiots like Rush Limbaugh, Ann Coultier, Keith Olbermann, and Katie Couric, this country will continue it's downward spiral until obliteration.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

craig — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:31:36 GMT

you know, i think it's interesting that when money gets spent on war, conservatives have no problem with mortgaging their childrens' future, but when it gets spent on social service programs that help american citizens at home, they bitch that liberals are destroying our country by helping the poor and disadvantaged.

first off, why are there so many people here screaming that MSNBC is giving credit to the Obama administration for security gains in Iraq? Obama's name does not even appear in the article. Nowhere is Obama given credit for anything mentioned in the article. you are super-imposing your own twisted bias onto an otherwise neutral story which is acknowledging a fact about the changing circumstances in Iraq. Nowhere in the article is the Obama administration mentioned or given credit for anything that's happening in Iraq.

secondly, The reason we are seeing security gains in Iraq is because the Iraqi people got sick of putting up with Al-Qaeda's BS and realized that american soldiers are better people than terrorists. However, this doesn't mean they have to like it. If Russia invaded the U.S. successfully, and then Canada liberated us, but kept troops in our country for 6 years for security reasons, patting us down, checking our homes for weapons, harrassing us at check points, to make sure we aren't Russian insurgents or sympathizers, how would you feel? if your child or family member got caught in the crossfire between Canadian and Russian forces, how would you feel? If your child's arms got blown off by a stray bomb, how would you feel? this is the reality that Iraqis have been living with for years since the invasion. They acknowledge that working with the Americans is better than working with the terrorists, but that's because the alternative is worse. If you had to deal with what Iraqis deal with on a daily basis you would be resentful as well. you would resent the presence of military power because it takes away from your freedom. the vast majority of Iraqis, including their politicians, do not want America to occupy their country anymore. and I, for one, do not want American sons and daughters dying for them when they don't want us there in the first place.

I have spoken to Iraqi nationals before and not a single one of them i spoke with agree with the war or its results. You may agree with the war, but as far as I can tell, the majority of the Iraqis that we "liberated" do not. if you support this war, i ask that you try to seek out an iraqi national living in america and ask their opinion. many of them have family in Iraq. even those that hated Saddam lament the cost in blood and treasure, both to the Iraqi people and to us. And to say that Liberal-minded Americans want Iraqis to wallow in an insecure, dangerous Iraq is outrageous. The entire reason Liberals opposed this war is because of the cost in human suffering. Btw, there are plenty of Anti-war republicans out there as well. but of course, yet again, it's us crazy liberals that want to destroy america and pray for the failure of our armed forces overseas. The intellectual largesse of hardcore conservatives is as sickening as the hypocrisy of Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Trev , Seattle, Washington, Ottawa, Canada — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 13:38:33 GMT

Wow such fire between democrat and republican here.
Victory is hard to declare in these kinds of wars,
and any credit belongs to the military rather than president A or B.

At some point the people of Iraq have to stand on their own to decide if they prefer freedom or oppression.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Tom — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:16:45 GMT

I guess you can call Iraq a success if you weren't one of the hundreds of thousands of maimed, tortured or dead.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Dave Marshall Courtenay British Columbia Canada — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:31:53 GMT

Wow!!As a Canadian I am a supporter of what your pesident George W did. He has the guts to do what was needed. Many small countries acuse us of not willing to spill our blood for them. This has now changed. Canada is also on board. The world is a very dangerous place and it cannot go unchecked anymore. My grandfather who served for 4 years in the second world war said if it were not for the Americans entering the war this would be Nazi Germany today, Thank you America for rooting out the evil.If we just sit back and do nothing tanks will be rolling in our own streets freedom will be lost and the second world war deaths will be in vain. Whos dead sons are you crying for? Freedom comes at a price a price we have already put a deposit on. Dave Marshall Canada

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Lauren Camille, Washington, DC — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:40:49 GMT

One interested observation reading the comments....

Notice how there aren't really any "ugh, conservatives" statements to be found, but several "ugh, liberals"? I just find it interesting as that it speaks to the nature of inclusiveness and open-mindedness of the two sides. How's about we just call ourselves "Americans" and then discuss the issues at hand without childish name-calling and insults? I personally find Rush Limbaugh and Michael Moore to be equally unappealing due to they fact that they employ the exact same tactic of belittling their opponents instead of constructive engagement.

Now Iraq: I'm VERY glad that things are improving. I have studied Iraq for years and have worked in the field on these issues. However, we can't simply gloss over 7 years of history because we may be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I mean really, no one wanted Iraq to become a disfunctional state where warlords roam like Somalia - that's why we put so much into making this work - so let's not pretend that anyone did. I do think it is worth noting that Bush (and Secretary Gates) deserve a great deal of credit for finally changing strategies in early 2007 - working with the Awakening Councils and such. I also think that it is a large FAILURE on the part of the media and the US government to not recognize the fact that the US and Iraqi forces didn't keep the peace all on their own; al-Sadr calling off his Shiite militias that wreaked so much damage was crucial to this turn-around. Al-Sadr did so in order to advance his own political ambitions for certain, but the outcome is the same and we would see a drastically different Iraq right now had he not done so. That particular development had nothing to do with Bush, Obama or any other American. That was something that the Iraqis did that we can't take credit for, but should recognize for as important as it was.

Additionally, Obama has been in office for 60 days now - hardly enough time to have an real effect on much. I don't believe that this article is giving credit to Obama - he's not mentioned anywhere in it!!!! So we shouldn't assume that that is what is being implied simply because the idea is inflammatory. This article is out there to show that the security situation is improving on the ground for the everyday people - I would hardly expect any decent journalist to bury such a story for such an insignificant political innuendo. And there are still stories coming out daily regarding suicide bombings and the like, so no one can say that the press is all sunshine and rainbows now that we have a Democrat in office.

Progress is being made due to a combination of events. Yes, in 2006 this war did seem like the end was never in sight. But it's looking better now, and hopefully American forces CAN leave responsibly. I think we can all agree that we would be much better allocating those billions of dollars into our fledgling economy than continuously reconstructing Iraq.

So, that all said, I think than any intelligible person should welcome an honest discussion of the facts and give credit where credit is due and likewise for blame. We have to recognize that it was a bitter war with thousands of unnecessary deaths on both sides. It will be up to the IRAQIS - not the Americans - looking back years from now to decide if all of this was worth it. It's their country after all!

Oh and Justin Morrison from Houston, you are quite correct in your assertations that - if we were truly on a liberation/security mission - North Korea would be the obvious choice. They were the ones who developed a nuke, not Iraq (and not Iran for that matter as well.) North Korea is the quittisential example of an irrational state - more so than any other place on Earth. The people there are brainwashed since birth, led to believe a story that would make George Orwell shake his head in bewilderment. Kim Jong Il and his elite are some of the worst human rights offenders on Earth and do run their country like a concentration camp. About the only thing I can say in compliment to their system is that - due to the limited population and resources - persons with natural talent (such as art) are allowed to rise above their birth station to the "middle class".... and that's not saying much. If the US really wanted to address a nation that poses a significant military threat to US and international interests as well as liberate a people - North Korea is where we should have always been looking.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Karl K — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:48:28 GMT

I'd like to believe that this is true. But when we had the surge going on in Iraq, and when the Sunni awakening became a problem for them, the terrorist insurgents simply "surged" elsewhere, into Iran and other places to wait patiently. Much like they "surged" out of Iraq earlier after we first invaded Iraq. (I remember people asking where all the Iraqi and terrorist fighters were. We know now...they just "surged" out of the country for awhile.) I think that eventually, whether we pull out sooner or later, they'll just come back. It's what they do. Their goals have not changed. We're simply fighting a moving target.

Read "The Forever War" by Dexter Filkins. He was just on TV this week, because he won a literary award for his book, and it's fascinating. He lived in the region for a long time and knows the people well. There has always been fighting there and probably always will. Because fighting is what they want to do. We might as well leave, or else just maintain a peacekeeping force there, because there will be bloodshed there again down the road. Same holds true for some of the other countries in the region. You really need to read this book to understand that. It sounds odd, I know. But it's definitely worth the read. And it's sobering. Unfortunately, we haven't won. I hope we manage to keep the insurgents from coming back, but it will probably require a peacekeeping force from several countries.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Bohdan Szejner — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:50:40 GMT

I just hope that the article is true. We have a dismal inability to critically think among the reporters, so nothing is certain, yet. I wonder if the Kurds will get their autonomy. Until they do, the prospect of peace is futile, a vicious lie. Yet the article deliberately ignores this issue!

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mark - Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 14:57:42 GMT

We did not liberate Iraq. It was not occupied. The justification for the war was to take away the weapons of mass destruction, which did not exist. Therefore, no justification. Bush will not go down as a great president. He put Bremner in place in Iraq, a man uniquely unqualified for this job. He is the man who dismissed the Iraqi army - the only law and order in the country - which led to the sectarian violence. So yes, we are largely responsible. And Bremner "lost" 8 billion dollars in cash and failed to secure arms depots. He should be tried.
Bush a hero? $1.4 trillion and counting -after he told us it would cost $2 billion and 6 months. 4354 dead Americans and counting. There was a better way.
And Cheney advocated for bombing Iran last year. He is right up there with Hitler.
And to those of you - mostly republicans - who don't know or understand history - quit using Neville Chamberlain to any current situation. It was far more complicated and nuanced than anyone who listens to Rush, Hannity, etc, can understand.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Mark - Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:24:35 GMT

Also, what most overlook is the rather substantial influence of Iran in Iraq. Iraq was largely a secular society before the war. Now it more closely resembles Iran. Alcohol is forbidden as is public dancing and other forms of expression. Although the violence is down, I am afraid we may have created another Islamic state.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

Henry West, Columbia, South Carolina — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:26:11 GMT

We never should have been there in the first place and if anything a little history lesson can better detail how the more involved we get in the region, the worse things turn out.

When Iraq and Iran went to war, the US supported Iraq financially as Iran was viewed as an enemy of the US at the time. After the war Sadam was able to use the military power from the war, that was bought with US money, to later invade Kuait that lead to the First Gulf war and to the current situation in Iraq.

But for something more directly connected to us.. When Afghanistan was invaded by the Soviet Union the US financially supported Afghanistan in their war with another of our then enemies. After the Soviets withdrew from the country, the government became very corrupt with the extra power it gained, thanks to US intervention. That brought about the Talaban, and their support of Al-qaida. I don't even have to say how they have effected every American.

The more the US gets involved in the region the more it comes back to haunt us. I hope that we can learn from the past before we feel the pain in the future.

Many Iraqis ‘feeling alive’ again

DSm, Conway,SC — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:45:12 GMT

The situation in Iraq today is great! For now it is anyway. I do fear that once we pull out the bad guys will be back in force. Only a unified, strong willed people will be able to succeed -- I do have my doubts.

Was it right for America to go to Iraq? You know, there is so much pure misery going on in the world today. Drug cartels, organized crime,dictators, world leaders consumed by greed and inhumanity--the list goes on and on. With the state of technology in the world today (that just about anyone can tap into)the world is becoming closer and closer. Small, weak countries such as Iran and N. Korea now have access to technology that can enable them to badly cripple any other country in the world whether it is a super power or not. Believe me, the leaders of these types of countries want total power by any means. They would not think twice about dumping a nuke, chemical or biological weapon on us or anyone else if they could get away with it. What I am saying is the techology of today and the future is equalizing the playing field. We the civilized, good people of the world need to realize that there is true evil out there. The problem is it exists all over the world. It has infiltrated every country on the planet and the US is included. What do we do? Who can we turn to? Who can the innocent turn to when their family members are abducted and never seen again? Who are the good guys? America? You know, as badly as we are looked at these days--America is all the world has. Yeah, I know -- we certainly aren't perfect. I know our polititians are losing their morals (in many cases they are long gone). At some point in time, the good will have to conquer the evil. I'm not talking religion here--just common sense. If you have a know psychopath in the neighborhood and there is no law enforcement and this guy starts killing people—what do you do? In the old days common sense prevailed—people did what they had to do—no matter how hard the choice was—they’d get a rope and find a tree. Do we just leave countries like the Saddam era country of Iraq alone and let them do as they like? If so, one day their thugs will be knocking on your door--taking your son or daughter away. Someone once said, and I am not quoting, that freedom and liberty come at a high cost. Iraq (along with many American soldiers) have certainly been paying on that account. There is no other way! This will always be true--the evil in human beings will never go away. Should we have invaded Iraq? It was either then or sometime down the road. The good people of these countries are not going to ever have the chance to rebel like we did back during the American Revolution. Technology is our friend and also our worst enemy--it enables the bad guys to get close—too close. Just look in the past at the mighty super power of the time—the Roman Empire. You might as well get it in your heads—we are sooner or later always going to have to fight---always!

Who has all the answers? No one does—just know we have to be strong and YES we will have to butt into other countries business when the time comes – that is just the way it is folks.