From ally to adversary?

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:29:45 GMT

Dear Richard, It is very interesting your recollection of the time in 2003 when Hashim spoke to the small group of journalists in Baghdad at the start of the war with all the explosions happening outside. He certainly wasn't fooling anyone by his statements because all of you could hear the advance taking place. Talabani, Allawi and Shawani did manage to become leaders. It is true as you stated in the posting that Hashim was guilty of war crimes, but he did want to overthrow Saddam. The letter from General Petraeus does explain to Hashim that he will be treated with respect and dignity, yet in the end he was turned over to the Iraqi court and sentenced to death. Sometimes when things are said these people hear promises that were never made to them. Talabani is in a very difficult predicament and one can understand to a point his reluctance to sign away the death Hashim's death sentence. Richard, it is a violent world with outcomes that change the history of a region. Maybe there will be a compromise. Time will tell. And as I always say to you. KEEP EXTRA SAFE RICHARD!! TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF! Peace to you and to all!

From ally to adversary?

Jorge da Silva, Florianopolis, Brazil — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:52:47 GMT

Agree to surrender and then be punished. No wonder America can't end the insurgency, it can't be trusted!

From ally to adversary?

Matt, Sacramento, California — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 22:56:40 GMT

It's a complicated matter, but we can look back in our own history to see how we've dealt with situations like this in the past.
For example, Werner Von Braun was at the top of the Nazi War Machine, directly responsible for not only countless American and Allied deaths, but also used Jewish slaves who were worked to death and discarded.
We brought him over here, gave him a high-paying prestigious job, then proclaimed him a hero, because NASA and our space program was started with his help.
We have monuments to the man, and he was a high-ranking Nazi.

From ally to adversary?

David Franklin Rising Sun, IN — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 23:49:46 GMT

If General Petreaus offered this to General Hashim then so be it. Remember Lee and Grant. Let us start the healing process as soon as possible and take advantage of these situation instead of being HELL bent on politically correct.

From ally to adversary?

Jim — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 23:57:19 GMT

If the Iraq people ever figure out that their government is run by a bunch of CIA agents, the insurgency will turn into a real revolution. Better take down this article before you get everyone all worked up.

From ally to adversary?

jb — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:01:31 GMT

The guy worked for US. It's not right to let him be executed. The US has the power to stop it...but when it comes to fecklessness Bush and Cheney get the gold medal. They'll probably let their man Maliki kill the guy in the dead of night.

From ally to adversary?

Ben Notmeijer — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:16:20 GMT

He should have been hanged next to Saddam,he was a commander at that time,when the killing took place and so responsible for the slaughtering of 160.000 Kurds and the use of chemical weapons.It's that simple.

From ally to adversary?

Jayne Ferguson, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:26:26 GMT

Dear Richard - You're priceless...this is almost as good as "Baghdad Bob." I nearly died laughing at his "press conferences" leading up to the invasion.
Stay safe and keep that flack jacket close, if not on....
Jayne Ferguson, Los Angeles, CA

From ally to adversary?

dmarini — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:28:14 GMT

These are the kind of stories all reporter should be doing and looking for. This person tried to help the US and now wee sell him down the river. There must be other like him and the stories must be told. And more importantly, the FOLLOW UP. good or bad in the end we need the follow up. In the age of the internet, that is what reporting is all about. You cant TRUST even the government today so reporters must get us, the people the right information and do the follow up so we can know and if need be protest.

From ally to adversary?

Sally Wright, Chicago IL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:33:34 GMT

This would make a great movie.

From ally to adversary?

William Jones, Bloomington, IN — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:41:31 GMT

just one more example of how ignorant we are with respect to the realities of Iraq.

From ally to adversary?

Tommy Jordan — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:03:09 GMT

Well how's that for sticking it to you friends.

From ally to adversary?

Julie Mayfield — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:06:48 GMT

yesterday my poodle, today my enemy

From ally to adversary?

Timothy R., Louisville, Ky — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:08:35 GMT

"....like handing out speeding tickets at the Indianapolis 500..."

From ally to adversary?

Archie1954 — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:10:41 GMT

How can anyone comment on something like this? It just shows you there is no honor among thieves.

From ally to adversary?

carl morrison, whitwell, tennessee — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:12:22 GMT

go ahead and execute him , no. im sorry, give him a few million dollars and let him go free. thats keeping with the american governments way.

From ally to adversary?

Ravin, Cupertino, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:19:59 GMT

Every enemy we have now was once a friend. Musharraf has been openly saying that he may be dumped anyday. Iraqi translators are in a quandry. The Americans they trusted are not willing to rescue them. In the future, it will be hard for us to succeed when we do not stand by folks who risked their lives for us.

From ally to adversary?

Brian — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:23:56 GMT

They definitely should not Kill Mr. Hashim. If he was working at high levels to bring down Saddam that far back in time he certainly does not deserve the ill will of the people of Iraq. Most likely he may have been the man who carried out some atrocities of humanity, but not the author of those atrocities, the author was a man who has already received the ultimate punishment.

From ally to adversary?

Dennis Williams — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:24:25 GMT

I lived in Iraq for six years(1979 to 1985) as a techical support engineer to a famous British company contracted to the Iraqi army & Gov transport systems. I can assure you anyone who was seen as a traitor from within was brutally dealt with.
I have to admire in any sense, the co-conspirators involved in the "Achilles Heal" activities ,since from my on the ground perpespective/experiences the fearful retribution for being caught is death by the most horrible means.

From ally to adversary?

Jack Walters — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:28:51 GMT

The United States has, rightly or wrongly, earned the reputation of being opportunistic and perfidious when it comes to its friends and allies in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Pakistan - a freind not to be trusted. Execute Hashim, and our reputation will sink even lower.

From ally to adversary?

jack kelly — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:30:45 GMT

Simple one,

Bring him to a US Military base. Then have George B. give him a unconditional pardon. Then transport him to the US and provide him job and living needs.

I know the US doesn't have a right to do this, SO WHAT, we do a lot of things we don't have any right to do. Lets not get moral now. Good God where the US, if we say jump the world better ask, "how high".

From ally to adversary?

Joe Edwards New Bern,N.C. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:31:00 GMT

If he helped the U.S.,He should be helped.

From ally to adversary?

Bradley Stewart, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:31:39 GMT

If you stab 100 innocent men in the heart but later repent and attempt to live a charitable life, does that mean you aren't responsible for murder? Heck no. While Hashim's death sentence might be a raw deal, life imprisonment would probably be a more appropriate punishment, his aiding the CIA doesn't buff away a bloody past. And he can't use the line, "I was just following orders." It didn't work for the Nazis during the Nuremberg Trials, it won't work here.

From ally to adversary?

milt, Chicago, IL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:37:46 GMT

I assumed General Petraeus had the dossier on Sultan Hashim with the CIA entry ?
If Hashim was identified as our man working for the CIA and was cut loose, then we can forget about recruiting double agent from " hostile " regimes in the forseeable future.
If Hashim was not identified as a CIA double agent in the dossier, then we have a serious " disconnect " among our various departments.

From ally to adversary?

Peter, Parker CO — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:43:49 GMT

I hate to say it because he worked for us.

If you kill women and children or accept the order to do so, you are wrong and eventually, you will pay. The other conspirators had no direct contact in the atrocities against the Kurds. Unfortunately he did.

How many of you believe that death row inmates should be released if they "find god"?

This is the same thing.

From ally to adversary?

Robert Gipson, Houston, TX — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:48:23 GMT

Why must all comments be approved; is this not the United States of America where free speech is guaranteed; now to the comments that are directly related to the blog;

First, I have no verification of Richard Engels accoounts, but I will give hime the fenefit of doubt that what he says is the truth.
If there is a shread of truth to the story, then Talabani has no option but to commute Hashim's sentence.

From ally to adversary?

Norman Woods, New Orleans, LA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:48:28 GMT

Not only should this man pardoned but he should be
given asylum in the USA because he wanted to help us
before the Iraq war started.

From ally to adversary?

RICHARD COLE, PENCIL BLUFF, ARF. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:51:37 GMT

HE IS NOT THE FIRST, NOR WILL HE BE THE PAST ONE WHO
HAS BEEN BETRAYED BY THE AMERICAN POLITICIANS. HO
CHI MINH WAS ANOTHER ONE.

From ally to adversary?

Ian Lawson, San Diego, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:56:42 GMT

Just like the the CIA to be so blatently uninterested in taking a position on this. Where has the true American spirit gone? Has bureacrcy become so rampant our civil servants can't even think any more? We are becoming as Germany did under Hitler, institutions cow-towing to the power structure frist and foremost - not what is right or good for the common man they ultimately represent. This, rendition, Abu Ghraib, Gitmo, Blackwater etc. etc. I am ashamed of my country.

From ally to adversary?

jimmie tampa florida — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:56:46 GMT

from what i have read, hashim was never promised that his life be spaired, that hashim be treated with the utmost dignity and respect, basicly an honorable end !
i believe people can redeem themselve for what they have done in the past, but that is ultimately up to the iraq people !

From ally to adversary?

Rick Williams, Bloomington, IL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:57:38 GMT

If the execution occurs, this will no doubt go a long way to discourage others to cooperate with the US in low profile government turnovers vs. bombing them to eternity at a cost of hundreds of billions. This is a great case of "what have you done for me lately" and a wonderful example of the influence we have over the so recently "freed" Iraqis.

From ally to adversary?

John Doe — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 01:58:52 GMT

Well Gen. Petraeus truly turned into a Gen. Betray-us

From ally to adversary?

Sheri Johns — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:01:06 GMT

There should be no death sentence for Hashim. If he, indeed worked toward ending Saddam's tyranty along with the other men mentioned above; why should he be the only one sentenced? The USA should intervene.

From ally to adversary?

William J. Chevalier — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:01:45 GMT

Why should Hassan be executed when the US is granting support to Sunni militias to fight Al Qaeda. These militias were part of Saddam's Army structure,some of whom were members of Saddam's Republican Guard, who in the past committed genocide against tens of thousands of Kurds;and who in the present are conducting sectarian violence campaigns against the Shiites resulting with tens of thousands of deaths. It seems that Hassan was risking his life by operating on both sides of the battlefield. Placating political officials who are in a position of weakness reemphasizes the axiom that the weakest link in the chain will go first.

From ally to adversary?

Robby Satterfield, Jacksonville, FL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:04:22 GMT

he "volunteered" to work for the CIA. volunteered? now that is hilarious!

From ally to adversary?

E.M., NY, NY — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:09:25 GMT

I think it was ok that the Iraqis tried him, whether it was fair, after Hashim had help them against Saddam, is not relevent because Hashim did commit crimes that needed the judgment of justice.

From ally to adversary?

JE, Ohio — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:11:36 GMT

Gen. Betrayus has struck again. More of the bush-man's tongue in cheek oratories.

From ally to adversary?

Earl Guss, Belleville, Illinois — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:20:15 GMT

I would appear the relevant question is, did he participate in, order or condone the killing of Kurds while he was in command. One can not escape that fact if proven.

From ally to adversary?

john doe, seattle, washington — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:23:10 GMT

hmmm....what's that word that sums it all up?? Ah yes, Karma. Indeed, what goes around, comes around.

From ally to adversary?

Ken Mingo ,Saratoga NY — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:23:19 GMT

Sure is a tough nut to crack. It seems that Hashim did stick his neck out quite far in the best interest of the U.S. and the Iraqi people (including the Kurds). If he did participate in the terrible actions taken against the Kurds - What could he do - even if he tried to stop it Saddam would have just killed him and done it any way. If it is true and he put his own life in peril for all Iraqis I think he should be cut a little slack.

From ally to adversary?

Kathy, Texas, USA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:24:21 GMT

The usual disgusting American betrayal, see also, treaties with American native peoples. We gave Saddam weapons to fight Iran and then he used them to fight the Kurds in his own country as well, under our comfort blanket, the first Bush administration. Is it any wonder the Arab world views us with such distrust, animosity? Dear God, forgive us, we are all Americans, but some of us actually try to live up to the honor and integrity of our founding fathers, unlike Bush, et al. who have sullied and destroyed our image around the world. This is just one more example of their view that allies are only as valued as their last CIA operation, to be disposed of when inconvenient. Sometimes, these neocons, Bushies, Cheneys and the like make me embarrased to be an American. Sad, but true. But what really makes me sad is that this Bush administration, with it's veneer of Christian values, is the only Christ some people in the world will ever see. And Jesus wept.

From ally to adversary?

Tony Arvelo , New Castle , PA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:26:26 GMT

We must allow Hashim to escape his sentance. He was the enemy of our enemy . He assisted us in our goals. He was a friend to the current president. Place him in a comfortable exile in Detroit. Or make him an ally in the war against the enemys of Iraq. We will never gain information or collaborators of American interests if we turn on our friends like Bush 1 did after the First Gulf War. I believe that may be part of todays problems. We reap what we sow.

From ally to adversary?

angelo latone — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:31:59 GMT

no wonder no one has turned osama in for how many millions!
Most of the world knows America has no integrity!

From ally to adversary?

Eleni Villios, Plantation, Florida — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:34:35 GMT

Pretty funny story. Someone make this into a movie.

From ally to adversary?

Rich Skowron, Chandler AZ — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:39:44 GMT

Now will we turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to even those who dared support us in exchange for a perceived greater good? This war is more Laurel and Hardy except the slapstick is performed with real bullets! God help us!

From ally to adversary?

JOHN DOE , SEATTLE WASH — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:50:07 GMT

THIS GUY SHOULD HAVE SPOKEN TO NORIEGA OR BABY DOC FIRST .

From ally to adversary?

Howard Levine — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 02:55:29 GMT

I had once written in general favor of capital sentencing when it had been under review in Virginia, but I am disappointed whenever it seems to be used in ways other than deterrent to crime. Perhaps the necessary emphasis in your very informative and revealing article should be the checkered past of Iraq, and of every ally and adversary alike. "Winning hearts and minds" is not a phrase as often heard now as it once had been. Perhaps lenity today is the only way to hearts and minds at all.

From ally to adversary?

Rev Frank Bowman, Heber Springs, AR — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:00:52 GMT

It's like the Fox watching the hen house, and the farm dog saying it's OK. He should pay for what he did, but he should be rewarded for what he has done. I really don't see how the country is worth all this trouble in the first place.

From ally to adversary?

gladie benson — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:10:08 GMT

The US & Iraqi Courts need to do the honorable thing for this man.

From ally to adversary?

Kark Bratcher, Florence, Oregon — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:10:53 GMT

The CIA is a corrupt organization that in principal sounds great but in reality will never work because their presents require everything to remain a secret. With everything remaining a secret opportunity presents itself regularly to all the agents and their leadership that takes on the benefit corruption made available with defeats all other goals or efforts. Once corrupt everyone there becomes a great pretender. After all, how can you count on a common hit man?

The only way this could have remained effective would have been for these officials to capture Bin Laden but with Presidents Bush’s secret directive to remain hands off such could not take place. It will be years before all the player’s involved will be held accountable and pay the price and this includes the holder of the highest and most powerful office in the world.

From ally to adversary?

salom gunheim — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:12:02 GMT

Talabani, Allawi and Shawani should be executed by hanging before him

From ally to adversary?

Roger Thomas — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:15:07 GMT

If he did help us, we should help protect his life.
Although, he may still have to pay for the wrong he did, but not with his life.

Roger, Merrillville In

From ally to adversary?

john doe — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:20:22 GMT

you can't trust some governments, hey the us just about had several of their own cia agents killed when they helped expose their identities. Think.

From ally to adversary?

Mike, North Las Vegas, Nevada — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:22:37 GMT

Unfortunately, this is the realties of Operation Iraqi Freedom and its execution. Nothing in relation to this operation should be viewed in black & white terms as some suggest. Saddam as cruel and heinous as he was, was once our ally and he did manage to keep the population under control and that fear maintained stability in the region.

As painful as this is to say, Mr. Hashim should be pardoned and granted exile in another country. He did help us, he did try to topple Saddam once it became clear that Saddam was nobody's ally. After the Neurnberg Trials, some offender were pardoned for both political and humanitarian reasons. Maybe the same should occur now?

From ally to adversary?

Malick Deme — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:22:57 GMT

Unlike life and death, war and peace is not black and white, only mshades of grey, and people must coexist with their conscience. From a US point of view, General Hashim's should be spared if we don't want the words of our generals questionned in future deals.
We cannot bring the dead back nor can we restore value to our betrayed words when they are perceived as such. Talabani seems to have a sense of honor, Petraeus likely too, give foregiveness a chance, the alternative is eternal suspicion, neither peace or war, neither freedom or security.

From ally to adversary?

Sambath Mau — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:32:11 GMT

It is Ironic that a man have been an ally to the U.S and the U.S is turning its back on him. He will lose his life because he believed in the U.S. It is a crying shame that there is no loyalty in time of war. It is not the first time that the U.S. have turn its back on its Ally.

From ally to adversary?

Sam Brown, Roseville, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:33:50 GMT

I am no longer amazed at the short politial memory of our country. We subvert a democratically elected president in Iran, overthrough the government, and install the Shah because we want an Amercian friendly government. We support Saddam against Iran, arm him, and signal we are not opposed to him invading Kuwait. Boy are we messed up.

From ally to adversary?

Antonio Blount, Junction City Kansas — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:35:23 GMT

This war has gotten out of hand and the real reasons for going over to Iraq has been forgotten. The million dollar question would be who is guilty and who is not? The present Iraq government is no different than the Saddam government. People are still being killed, but they say it is justifiable because they are being tried in a court. Well during Saddams time they also had courts, and people were tried. Myself and many others would have liked to have seen Saddam and all the others get life, this would have been a death sentence alone. I then would have built a big glass window so they could see the Iraqi people living with the freedoms they took from them.
Now the average person would say how does former Saddam loyalist get a fair trial? What is fair? Two wrongs do not make one wrong right. The Iraq government, is a government on paper, they are not attempting to make things right in their country. They live in a secure environment, provided by the US military. They don’t have the same worries the average Iraqi citizen has. Ok they would like to say the green zone is protected by the Iraqis, get real.
The bench marks, what a joke, you have a government that has probably been infiltrated and some of it members have their own small armies. What other government in the world functions like this? Myself and many other Americans are tired of hearing this is their culture. We as a nation and government have let the Iraqi government get out of control. Who cares what the rest of the world would have thought if we controlled their government. We took the country in 21 days, what other country would have wanted to mess with us when we had the momentum on or side. At least we would know who we are really dealing and fighting with. If this was a model of the Marshall plan, we failed in a big way.
Bottom line let the man live, he helped us, but then again we are good for helping others but not following through.

From ally to adversary?

Denny Valdosta GA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:35:50 GMT

A tiger never changes his stripes..hang him..Much like the Russian KBG man now in charge of Russia..that will never let go..and the old communists in the PRC that are slowly rebuilding the chinese military from profits of the junk they export to the USA..while they poison kids with lead paint..We let the Dems degrade our military budgets to the point of up the creek without a paddle when the Chinese decide to move on us one day..with no spare parts for old airplanes and hardware to fight with the bare essentials like in Iraq today..the old Dem hippies kids/grand kids better learn spoken Chinese..and slave labor.

From ally to adversary?

KENNETH EDWARDS, DOVER, DE — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:40:37 GMT

I think we did this man a huge injustice. If he had provided information to the CIA, as stated by the CIA and Gen Petreaus, then he should have remained in our custody. The US government knew very well what would happen to this man, who provided important information to us, if he was turned over to the Interim Iraqi Government forces. If Talabani does sign the death warrant, there will be NO HOPE for a peaceful resolution to the current situation in Iraq.

From ally to adversary?

Bodes, Clackamas, or. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:42:27 GMT

Military forces do what they have to do to come out ahead. The only honorable people are those you never hear about or they're on the big screen in Hollywood. Give me a break! Does anyone really believe that the US military is chock full of honorable folks!

From ally to adversary?

Nevada Democrat — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:45:20 GMT

Be our friend...we will see you hanging in the wind...

From ally to adversary?

Aries, Monterey Park CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:45:50 GMT

It is both ironic and tragic, but I guess that is how the world of espionage works. It is a thankless job and it probably get you killed.

From ally to adversary?

matt brooks, los angeles, california — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:45:58 GMT

This is case reminds of me the U.S. enlisting former Nazis to help combat the Soviet Union, most of them later sent to war tribunals and convicted of war crimes. Did Hashim really have a choice in his part of the campaign that slaughtered thousands of Kurds? Don't forget this is Saddam's government we're talking about, I think in his case better them then me and that is a basic human instinct. If he willingly risked his life to overthrow Saddam then how can he be excuted? Prison is one thing but death is another.

From ally to adversary?

mori — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:48:55 GMT

and then you wonder why people dont help us when we need them, we are famous for not keeping our word

From ally to adversary?

michael alden — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:49:04 GMT

Hashim,as a commanding officer under sadamm,was carrying out orders.This regiem was run by a dictator,which left 2 choices.1.Do it. 2.Be executed if you don't.Concidering he himself (Hashim)was attempting to help over throw sadamm,tells of a man who reconized the terrible horrers of a dictator and his cooperation to rid of the crazed dictator indicates he understood what was and had taken place in iraq was wrong.Given weight of eviendence by the above column,i would set him free,with the sentence from the iraq gov,Hashim never be allowed into any Iraq gov.activities what so ever. Never to be allowed to speak in public. If so done,imprision for life. With Hashims cooperation with the iraq gov and vows to remain silent,Let him fade away into history.

From ally to adversary?

Badmola, Chicago, IL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:49:08 GMT

Was it ever proven that he actually had anything to do with the killings? Just because he was a commander in Northern Iraq at the time doesn't necessarily mean he was involved. Why would he put his life at risk by trying to overthrow Saddam and working with Talabani? I don't feel that he should be executed. If anything, he probably should be exiled.

From ally to adversary?

DON LANDRY NEW IBERIA LA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:56:01 GMT

President Talabani urge him to rebel against the government (saddam), and he used to cooperate," a man he introduced to the CIA. Where's the CIA..... Hello If this man cooperated for a better government with his life, Should not some one know, CIA HELLO.If this man did as President Talabani said and the CIA doesn't help him, THEN DON'T COMPLAIN WHEN HIS COUSIN BOMBS AN AMERICAN BUILDING TO RETALIATE BECAUSE THE CIA DIDN'T TAKE UP FOR HIM.And maybe he did do something wrong but until your bloods ready to spill and someone making you do something you don't approve and at the same time tryin to do whats right let his people judge it but america speak up hello CIA....

From ally to adversary?

NAS, California — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:57:23 GMT

Typical for US foreign policy and domestic politics under certain administrations. Look at how Rumsfeld, Cheney, and company have worked magic on our country under Nixon and Bush, and gave the green light to do the same kind of thing elsewhere. Hey, look at what happened with SITE? Familiar pattern Has everyone forgotten who trained O.B.L. in the first place? Short-term thinking with long-term shadow is nothing new.

From ally to adversary?

William — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 03:58:11 GMT

Send this message to Tony Blair, Laura Bush, and middle of the raod Republicans and try to elicit the help of FOX news especially Geraldo. See if you can get some ex-CIA guys to get on board.

From ally to adversary?

one, free, american — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:00:54 GMT

The metrics of war can be interpreted differently based on perspective. It would be as easy for someone to proclaim "but Petraeus said he would be protected!" as it would be for someone to state "and Petraeus gave him a measure of protection". If you would have assumed Petraeus' statement as a sweeping declaration of amnesty as history would have it you are obviously quite wrong. It is unfortunate that the Iraqi people have come under such strife - however as history would also have it - not all societies were willing to endure similar such similar subjugation. In regards to the same sentiment some hold towards the entire conflict, it should be mentioned that simply having a desire to live a good and free life is not always enough, sometimes you do have to fight for it. Sadly when some human beings have the gun to their head, they fold into subjugation. To live free and die trying is more in the best interests of one's long-term future and is more aligned with the angulars of natural life. God bless America.

From ally to adversary?

Booji Boy, Nucular Hills, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:05:28 GMT

And the hits keep on coming. Does the end justify the means? I don't think so. There is a reason that Americans are hated worldwide. When I traveled internationally in the 80s and 90s, I saw this hatred firsthand, and occasionally saw the justifications for this hatred. It is much worse now, and I am sure glad I do not travel any longer. America needs to decide whether we are a land of laws and integrity, or whether we will screw anyone, anywhere in the name of our national interests. We are perceived as the latter. Stories like this explain why. The military teaches to lead by example, at least they used to. What example does America set, when we enter a sovereign democratic country and overthrow the elected leadership (1950s Iran), or plot subversive schemes against Cuba (Operation Northwoods), or participate through inaction in an attack against the USS Liberty (Israel) to justify occupation of the Middle East, or the bogus Gulf of Tonkin incident that justified Vietnam, or a whole long laundry list of other garbage we have done or are planning to do? America should get out of the business of seeking to subvert to control. We are really bad at it, terrible in fact. If we spent as much time trying to make friends as we spend trying to make enemies, maybe the bullseye that sits squarely on the forehead of every American would be just a little bit smaller.

From ally to adversary?

Rodolfo Ramirez — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:08:18 GMT

You have presented a hard story. If it is as you report, it seems to me that we, the American people, the government, the CIA,....everything that we are and represent to the world in general, and to this Iraqui in particular, must defend him and provide him comenserate treatment in these extraordinary and filthy times. To not stand in his defense now is to cut ourselves off from future colaborators/freedom fighters wherever we operate. This is not to argue that everything we do is noble, but if you play dirty, have honor among thieves.

From ally to adversary?

Sam, Glendale Az — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:08:25 GMT

The Iraqi Government is so brutaly pathetic, they are proving that they are no better than Saddams regime. There moto is to kill anyone and everyone affiliated in any way shape or form with the Hussein government. Shame on them and their families for proving that they are even worse and more barbaric than the previous regime.

From ally to adversary?

Bashir G. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:08:33 GMT

It sounds like this man wanted to have a cake and eat it too. If there is anyone more deserving of the harshest forms of punishment are the backstabbers and double agents such as this guy.

From ally to adversary?

Ross, Federal Way, WA. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:08:45 GMT

Give em a break........

From ally to adversary?

One Man, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:11:28 GMT

If all the above info are true, he should deserve some break.

From ally to adversary?

Gene Gettysburg, PA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:15:15 GMT

If he turned on Saddam, he'll turn again for his own agenda. Let them execute him and be done with it! He wasn't much help as I see it, he failed and Lord only knows what terrible things he did before he turned toward the West. At least Saddam, had the courage to stand at the gallows and say his prayers before he was dropped.

From ally to adversary?

Mark Austin, TX — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:19:04 GMT

If one has been between a rock and a hard place -- like being loyal to a brutal dictator in order to live a life free from fear of cruel repression or be killed for disloyalty -- then the person should not be held accountable for his actions and punished to death, as this seems to be in the Iraqi general's case. One must have been found to have been knowingly and willingly committed war crimes. We live in a world where justice is often based on revenge and not common sense.

From ally to adversary?

trisha — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:25:10 GMT

Another reason why Americans should never be trusted. The most opportunistic and crafty people in the world. Hashim should have followed the moralistic principles of his own people. He was willing to sacrify it for the sake of money and power. Too late his li

From ally to adversary?

David F — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:27:26 GMT

It is so strange as to how we allow the treatment of people that help us. He turned on our mutual ememy (Saddam)We could have at least offered him some type of sentence under US control. Now their is a chance that he might be excuted. That sends the wrong message to other allies who might consider helping us. I hope our govt does the right thing.

From ally to adversary?

Joe Dokes Averageville Arkansas — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:29:53 GMT

This guy needs to be nabbed back from the Maliki/Shia scum and swept off to say, the U.A.E. We should once be seen keeping our word. You know, Honor?
I am sick of this.

From ally to adversary?

Daniel , Lancaster,Pa — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:35:52 GMT

How many more will we betray before this is over? The man followed orders or would have been killed by Saddam. He didn't like what he saw or did and tried to overthrow Saddam by helping the CIA. Now he awaits a death sentence. Ever been in the military? You disobeyed orders? I think not. Look at those U.S. Army Ranger's that were sniping terrorist's who were picking up deadly equipment to use against our troops that was planted by the Army. They are being tried for murder! Should they have disobeyed orders to "bait" tango's? Right. Guess those of you who said "yes" have never been in a war zone with men who want nothing more than to actually kill or maime you and as many of your friends as possible.

From ally to adversary?

john dill,seattle washington — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:37:37 GMT

Typical.

From ally to adversary?

JAR — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:38:17 GMT

"Treason is a matter of dates." -- Talleyrand

From ally to adversary?

John Doe, Los Angeles, California — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:41:07 GMT

What good will it do to execute a man who in one way or another help the Iraqu people and the U.S. military in the ouster of a dictator. His sins of the past should be forgiven as he made a complete turnaround from evil to good and he should be protected just like what our FBI do to mob turncoats.

From ally to adversary?

David Mowery, Mokena, IL — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:50:30 GMT

The first casualty of war is the truth. We may never have it in its entirety.

From ally to adversary?

Mike Tacoma WA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:54:34 GMT

We should keep our promises. At least it should appear that we keep our promises.....

From ally to adversary?

Mike Tacoma WA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:56:32 GMT

We should keep our promises. At least it should appear that we keep our promises.....

From ally to adversary?

J.Doe — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:58:12 GMT

Typical U.S. Backstabbing, "We'll get what we want, but can't guarentee your wellbeing." I'm embarresssed sometimes (more often than not) to be an American lately...

From ally to adversary?

Eric — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:59:13 GMT

Here the United states has a chance to prove to the world that if they work for the U.S. they eventually will be rewarded for their efforts. My question is, Why has the United States have done So little to come to this man's aid when the United States had offer prottection and money to help rid of Saddam. I see why people in Iraq Hate two face Americans. Americans promisess are futile they are ineffective when it comes for them to Honor their word, what a bunch of morrons if you ask me!!!!

From ally to adversary?

Rick Spence, Newcastle WA. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:03:36 GMT

This man should by all means be not only Exonirated, but should be Freed. To think that the CIA could turn its back is one thing, but to think the US Army and the US Government would is unforgivable.

I implore all to uirge that this man be Released!

If we have lost our Honor as a Country, we've lost everything.

From ally to adversary?

Summer K., Salisbury, Maryland — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:08:10 GMT

This is insane, talk about 'the pot calling the kettle black.' Of course he can't sign a death sentence for someone when he has admitted to doing, and introducing him to, the same thing! I really wish the world would get over the death sentence and realize that we need to be more humaine than those who did the crimes...sentencing someone to death doesn't make you any better than the person who originally killed. We do not have the right to decide whether a person deserves to live or die.

And for those who are questioning; yes, I pray I would still feel this way if one of my family members were killed.

From ally to adversary?

Vicki Detwiler, Lake Charles, LA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:09:45 GMT

Is this the same man who was known as "Baghdad Bob:?

From ally to adversary?

Jens-Dieter Stahmer, Olympia, Washington State — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:11:58 GMT

This story just explaines it even to the most uneducated person: Tyranny, war, occupation and the fight for freedom includes in this business the just most dirty and rotten politics and unhumane conditions imaginable. Prove me wrong.

From ally to adversary?

Marjorie Drake Rosarito Beach, Baja CA. Mexico — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:13:09 GMT

Wow, so General Petraus really IS General Betrayus.

From ally to adversary?

tony melton fort worth, texas — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:16:36 GMT

goes to show you the double standards of the american government. they recruited him in an attempt to overthrow saddam but the c.i.a will not ask for his sentence to be commuted. life isn't fair , especially when dealing in politics, the military, and working for a repressive dictator who had no value for human life.

From ally to adversary?

Frank Chelinsky,Rockford,Illinois — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:23:22 GMT

If he was given a direct order by his superior and he refused. the act would have been carried by someone else. IF he had made the decision then he should be held accountable.

From ally to adversary?

Mark, Bozeman, Montana — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:31:41 GMT

hang him

From ally to adversary?

joe sampietro, los angeles california USA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:38:07 GMT

I believe he should have his freedom just as Talabani has had his. I admire the Christian attitude of forgivness, mercy and understanding that Talabani has shown. I am also proud of the way Petraeus recognized the real world and effort that he and the others lived in and the honorable way he handled the situation. It is a further testimony to the quality of the man and those he commands. Let the man go. He is a man of conviction and patriotisem for his country. He should have a position in the govenment of Iraq.

From ally to adversary?

Mike Bailey, Columbia SC — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:38:09 GMT

Sounds like normal procedure for people that help the US, we use them until they are no further use, then they are on their own.

From ally to adversary?

NICK DELOUIS, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:47:25 GMT

I THINK IF HE HELPED THE CIA AND GEN. PETRAEUS STATED HE WOULD AVOID IMPRISONMENT, THEN WE SHOULD STAND BY OUR WORDS OR WE WILL NEVER GET HELP FROM THOSE IN POSITION TO HELP.

From ally to adversary?

Major William R Grant R A. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:49:30 GMT

It shows that no one can trust the C.I.A. administration it reflects the American Goverment way of dealing with people who colabarate with various gov,t department. Talabani is right to refuse to sign any death warrant which will affect Heshims life.

From ally to adversary?

Charles Kuder — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:50:00 GMT

The U.S. has a history, much as the British do, of using allies & individuals, then disavowing them when it's convenient. The phrase "Perfidious Albion" seems to be very apt.

From ally to adversary?

Patrick Maulolo — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:55:35 GMT

This is the main reason why we don't have too many friends in the world, 'cause people see us as two faces! We give people around the world our upmost gurantee for something in return, and when we get what we asked for, we quickly forgotten the promise we gave these people. We should be so ashamed of ourselves, by using people in this type of manner. There's no honor in our words, and because of this, people have a hard time trusting us. Everyone around the world knows that once someone misuse your trust, it's very difficult to trust that person again! America lost so many great friends both foreign and domestic to this same diplomacy of back stabbing and leaving their friends hanging when they need our help! God save us all!

From ally to adversary?

John, C-Springs — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:57:29 GMT

Saddam was "our" proxy against the post-Shah Iran. We provide him a nuclear capability that fortunately the Israelis took out. Without French assistance, the Afghans would still be fighting the Soviets. Sadly, our foreign policy is one of deliberate deceit and betrayal. This is just another example.

From ally to adversary?

Veer Pande, Dallas, TX — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:57:58 GMT

This shows how America foments trouble for its own motives and leaves its "allies" high-n-dry when the job is done. No wonder there is so much distrust world over, why will Iran comply, why will China let US mess around with Burma, why will India sign CTBT/NPT, why wont British (America's cousin) not withdraw its forces and why would a child in Palestine seek revenge for this distrust.

From ally to adversary?

Ali Reza Kashani, Miami, Florida — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 05:59:08 GMT

A major criminal who helped Saddam massacre 160,000 Kurds, should be executed. Pretending to be a US Allie was a gimmick on his part also. If he was not a double agent of Saddam, then why Saddam executed all his Iraqi friends of the 1996 'Achilles Operations' and spared his worthless life?? So most likely he was the one who sold them out. In 2003 when he saw the Coalition Forces have a winning chance, then he changed sides again. This no good weasel does not deserve merci.

From ally to adversary?

Chuck L — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:19:58 GMT

One more story that shows the human side of the invasion. And one more story that will be buried in favor of the usual "Cowboys and Indians" war stories pumped out by a generally gutless media. But what the hell, ... he's just another Iraqi, right?

From ally to adversary?

R Hodsdon, Seattle WA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:32:21 GMT

The U.S. should insist that Hashim be subject to extraordinary rendition and brought tothe US. Then let our justice system sort this out. There has been toomuch score-settling in Iraq. Don'tadd to it, and don't let US prestige be dragged through the dirt.

From ally to adversary?

Philippe Hellmuller, Geneva Switzerland — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:53:02 GMT

History is not coherent. One day, former heroes get hanged depending on where the wind blows from. Death penalty is obviously not an appropriate tool as it depends on the direction of the wind. According to the criterias applied, it looks even that Bush Junior could be considered one day as a serious candidate for a hanging.

From ally to adversary?

Thomas — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 06:55:10 GMT

This is retarded, like many moves of the US. Now that his usefulness is done, the CIA and the government are throwing him away. Obviously it pays to do the right thing and try to improve the lives of others by undermining violent dictators. I feel very sorry for him.

From ally to adversary?

M. Martinez, LTC, US Army Retired, Ramstein Village, Germany — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 07:14:18 GMT

Give Hashim a Break!

From ally to adversary?

Kyle V. Dye — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 07:37:23 GMT

Get US out of their mess now!

From ally to adversary?

Bohdan Szejner — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 07:51:00 GMT

All I can say is this: Save Sultan Hashim, if at all possible, help him so that he help Iraq! God is the ultimate judge, who did what. Do not let this man be judged by the Shiites! The Shiites would not hesitate to conde,mn their own mothers, to retain power in Iraq!

From ally to adversary?

Alan tran, San Jose, California — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 07:56:11 GMT

Remember South VietNam ? We betrayed the whole country, we abandonned the South Vietnamese to the Communist. How many people died in the re-education camp and how many more vanished at sea trying to escape to freedom? More than half a million !!!!Now, for whatever reason, if we must have to betray one more guy,then what's a big deal ?

From ally to adversary?

Bob Corpus Christi, TX — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 07:59:49 GMT

This guy trusted us. In no way shape or form should he be executed. Since it is clear that he cannot really function in Iraq, he should be admitted into the USA and helped to resettle. This should include his immediate family.

From ally to adversary?

Richard, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:06:06 GMT

The United States has never before been in a war the likes of Iraq, and there is much to consider regarding what promises may or may not have been given. Petraeus in his letter clearly states to Hashim "you will not be physically or mentally mistreated while under my custody." Therefore Hashim had not the same protection when not under the protection of Petraeus. There were high ranking German officers at the end of WW II that surrendered to allied forces, some of whom, were later eithr hanged or placed in prison, much to the satifaction of the then new forming German government. It is my personal opinion there are a number of CIA official having about on the same level of quality as Hashim, and it would now be of better interests to the United States to allow Talabani to handle the manner in whatever manner he decides.

From ally to adversary?

Sandra Daniels, Plymouth, MI — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:11:44 GMT

I Think that Hashim's sentence should be reduced - the poor man has been caught in the middle. If he didn't do what Saddam wanted then he would have been killed. The letter from the US Commander did say he would be protected AND it did IMPLY so in the reading of it.
How can US ask for the people of Irag or any country work with them for freedom and then if the person really work for them, allow them to be executed or have sentencing unfair to them?
If my family was killed then I would want justice but God asks us to forgive the person - it would be hard.
Even our US Congressmen & women we expect them to work for the people BUT I have my doubts what many of them are really doing!

From ally to adversary?

Daniel Schlafer — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:51:09 GMT

I believe survival was the name of the game a lot of Iraqis lived by. Hashim may or may not have been involved in the death of Kurds [ I would think a death sentence is a conviction] ? I would like to remind everyone that our Kurdish allys have an alterior motive for their friendship ? It is called their own freedom. We can look at PKK attacks in Turkey. I would think there might agitation in the Kurdish region of Iran ? I can sure see President Talibani's problem. What do we do if Turkey attacks the Kurdish region of Iraq ?

From ally to adversary?

Nick Williams,Louisville Kentucky — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 08:51:37 GMT

It seems the American government not only OWES the former Iraqi General(Hashim) praise and appreciation,but(obvilously)LIFE itself. But as many U.S. veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom deployments can vouch,its been proved(many times over)that the U.S.(Bush)administration has a "very short memory" when it comes to assisting and awarding those who played major roles during operations to overthrow Saddam Hussein.

I personally don't see ANY differences in how the U.S. inteligence community(overtly or covertly)utilized information(during/after)World War 2 extracted from high ranking Nazi officals and this political situation with General Hashim. But,there IS an obvious difference in how(high ranking)Nazis were "awarded" for their efforts compared to their Iraqi offical counterparts that secretly assisted the C.I.A. in Saddams overthrow. Nazis were given access to the Vatican "underground(Catholic church) railroad" who then "reinvented" their(Nazis)past via false birth certificates/education & employment histories/political party associations and passports allowing Nazis with more than checkered past,new lives throughout the free world. By the way,for those who may disagree or assume I lack sanity by the previous comment,all to do is research my claims and draw your own conclusions.
Are the differnces in treatment of how covert anti-Saddam Iraqi officals verses ex Nazis based on race and/or religion? The question could easily be raised that if General Hashim were caucasian and Catholic this discussion would'nt be taking place and would(no doubt)have long ago been relocated(via the C.I.A.)into U.S. society quietly running a street corner business. But,it seems the only future Mr. Hashim has is an unscheduled date with the hangman, compliments of the C.I.A.!

If the U.S. government and C.I.A. officals had future hopes of enlisting other pro-democracy high ranking officals in other "axis of evil" countries(ie:North Korea,Iran,Cuba and Venezuela),I serious doubts the documented treatment and unfair future of General Hashim will have "them" enquire to assist?

From ally to adversary?

Norman Ardeeser, 701 Caney Branch Rd, Murphy,N.C. 28906 — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:00:13 GMT

After careful thought on this very brief situation of a man's life, and our word, given right or wrong. I feel that enough of this taking apart each and every word of what was or wasn't said. It "our word" was given that no harm would come to this man. Let the man live and stand by our intentions and turn to him to help rule that country by putting him into a position to help US do that which we cannot do.

From ally to adversary?

jdhuggard — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:16:38 GMT

hell from canada-general david peytraoes[sp]has to intrevene/block the cia/commute ""death sentence""to/an honorable discharge of the charges/take talabani out of the process/iraq needs to stop bleeding/everyone has to smarten up/or the devils in iran will exploite!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!jdenishuggard/604-926-3661

From ally to adversary?

Rose J. Harrow, Akron, Ohio — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 10:42:10 GMT

I will say simply, "Let he who is without sin, be the first to cast the stone".
Enough said.
Thanks for accepting my commet.

From ally to adversary?

Chrisgiraffe, Columbus US — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 13:18:08 GMT

And we wonder why groups like the Taliban are working to overthrow us (the US). I'm sick of the two governments in the US: The flowerery public facade beseeched with ineptitude and the dirty handed, dark room conversational, covert "movers and shakers". Our foriegn policy is so bad and rotten we should withdraw from every country we have an embassy in while we have any shred of credibility and good relations. I can't blame the Bush admin entirely but they do seem the worst of the bunch.

When Hillary is President I have to wonder whether we will see another term of "business as usual" or flowering ineptitude. Perhaps I should move to an island.

From ally to adversary?

kenneth Estep Indianpolis, Indiana — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 13:32:01 GMT

We are there to help, not to judge let Iqrais decide who is guitly or innocent.It's their country let it start to function as a free state. The sooner we back off and let them exercise as a free society. They will make it or they will fail.

From ally to adversary?

Dan Djukic — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 13:44:42 GMT

America is a master at betrayal..... being a friend to America is a death sentence any way you cut it....as a nation, or as an individual. It has turned it's back on it's friends during it's entire history. The world is eventually gonna catch on. The Kurds and then the Armenians are next.

From ally to adversary?

john florida — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 13:56:35 GMT

HOW ABOUT WE TRY THIS ON FOR SIZE.COULD HE HAVE BEEN COVERING HIS BEHIND BY PLAYING BOTH SIDES OF THE FENCE??WE HIS MOTIVES ANY MORE THAN HIS MOTIVES AND WHAT WAS BEST FOR IRAQ DID NOT ENTER INTO HIS THINKING??THE AMERICANS KEPT THEIR WORD AS TO THE TERMS IN THE LETTER.BUT WE ARE NOT THE GOVERNMENT IN IRAQ. HOW WOULD IT BE IF WE WENT AND PUSHED THEIR FREEDOM TO ELECT THEIR OWN GOVERNMENT AND THEIR OWN CONSTITUTION ONLY TO TELL THEM THAT IT MEANT NOTHING TO US.BY THE U.S. POKING OUR NOSE IN THEIR SYSTEM OF JUSTICE WHENEVER WE FIND IT CONVENIENT IS MAKING WHAT WE WENT THERE TO DO WORTHLESS.TALABANI HAS THE BALL IN HIS COURT AND NEEDS TO STEP UP AND BE WHAT HE WAS ELECTED TO BE, "A LEADER".ALL THIS NONSENSE ABOUT BRING HIM AND HIS FAMILY HERE AND HELP THEM GET ESTABLISHED IS JUST THAT NONSENSE.THE "LET HE WHO IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE FIRST STONE"IS GREAT BUT HE IS NOT BEING JUDGED BY GOD (YET). HE HAS COMMITTED CRIME OR AT VERY LEAST TOOK PART IN COMMITTING CRIMES THAT WE CANNOT IMAGINE.IT SEEMS HE TOOK A GAMBLE TO HEDGE HIS BET AND HIS PEOPLE NOT THE U.S. SAID "NO". AND NOW THE THE USUAL CAST OF CHARACTERS THAT WANT US OUT OF IRAQ WANT US TO GET INVOLVED BUT ONLY WHEN IT MAKES THEM FEEL BETTER.BEING THERE IS ALSO BEING ABLE TO STAY OUT OF THEIR JUDICIAL SYSTEM.I THINK THEY KNOW MORE ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED IN IRAQ LONG BEFORE WE GOT THERE THAN WE DO. IT IS EASY TO SAY SAVE HIM BUT HOW MANY PEOPLE IN IRAQ WOULD SEE THEIR DEMOCRACY AS WORTHLESS IF WE CHANGE IT AT WILL TO SUIT US.RIGHT OR WRONG IT IS THEIR PROBLEM TO SOLVE WITHOUT OUR HELP ONE WAY OR THE OTHER.

From ally to adversary?

Darbert Gerkin, Hogslobber, Ark. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:08:55 GMT

Assuming it is being presented correctly, it would seem that General Petraeus' memo indicated he would be treated properly but would not necessarily be protected from prosecution by the Iraqi government.
Obviously, again assuming the scenario is being presented accurately, the U.S. should give the man (and his family) every consideration that any foreign national is given when conducting operations under direction of the U.S. military. (Ex: the Hmong of Viet Nam, the invaders at the Bay of Pigs, etc.)
It would be yet another small black mark of dishonor for the U.S. in this shameful war.

From ally to adversary?

ZFR, Atlanta, Georgia — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:16:01 GMT

Hi Richard:

Again you bring a good story from Iraq, but this time is different. Hashim was an Iraqi general under Saddam Husein Regim, like any other Iraqi army generals at that time they can not say no to anything Saddam asked them to do. This is a fact not only between the army community but it was among the entire Iraqi population. So many people of Iraq wanted to remove the dictator but they just couldn't do it. If this man cooporated with the Kurds and the Americans while he was still in power with the prevoius regim as a defence minister, then this mean that he wanted to see the changes in Iraq, and that is excatly what was happened in 2003. This man has tremendous information about the prevoius Iraq army and its structure, plans, equipments --- etc. that may still be important information to the coaltion forces in Iraq, he also has long experience in fighting the Iranian army during 1980 thru 1988 Iraq war. President Talabani does not want to sign his paper despite the fact that he was the army officer during the Kurds killing of what is called the Anfal operation at the north. He has also listened to General Petreaus call to surrend him self, and he did. I will add my voice to the other commentators in this blog for the Americans to do their best to spare his life because we are a passionate nation, want the world to see our values and that America is beautiful. Be safe richard, your reporting about the war, is an important historic documantation to our knowledge and to our historic text books and libraries.

From ally to adversary?

John Doe,Michigan — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:27:04 GMT

The government has all this information...but CAN'T FIND Osama Bin Laden???? Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm..........

From ally to adversary?

Jim Bachmann, Pueblo, CO — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:52:17 GMT

The mistake was in turning him over to the Iraqis. That in itself was a death sentence. Use influence now for a life sentence instead. Once Talabani is out of office, this man is out of luck.

From ally to adversary?

Eric L. Bianco, Watchung, NJ — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:59:23 GMT

This sounds like a revenge killing by elements of the Maliki government. Petraeus was the vehicle.. Much loss of U.S. face here. In the arab world, honor, rspect,and loyalty are key. The U.S seriously erred here. I would suggest U.S. authoritys place Hashim in a penthouse somewhere for "further interrogation", till the heat is off, and release him in future. He's probobly an asset that will be very valuable later. There are those who would admire us for that..

Hats off to Talabani for his honor,courage, and loyalty...Talabani sounds like a true gentleman and an asset to his nation..

From ally to adversary?

Laurel, Leonardtown, Maryland, USA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:14:21 GMT

We rarely help those Iraqis who risk their lives to act as translators or informants for U.S. forces. Why would anyone be surprised that we are not helping this man? On the other hand, why should we help someone who has been complicit in the torture and murder of Iraqi civilians? The old enemy of my enemy is my friend logic? President Talabani is indeed in a bizarre position, but we keep saying that we want the Iraqi government to stand up so that we can stand down, so let him do what he feels is right.

From ally to adversary?

Ron Houston, TX — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:17:09 GMT

Hashim is no diffferent than Baghdad Bush ("We are winning the war", even as we see the insurgency move out of Baghdad to the rest of the country). Apparently Bush et al have short memories and they can turn their backs on former friends with no qualms. They have no concept of "a deal is a deal". I only hope that the Iraq fiasco (Bush's Blunder) will teach future American leaders the difference between real enemies (the Taliban, who are now stronger than before we invaded) and self created enemies like Saddam and Iraq, which now apprears to be a bottomless pit as far as human lives and dollars.

From ally to adversary?

Gary,Norman Park,Georgia — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:17:21 GMT

Sounds like a line in a movie."You will be faiply treated,you will be fairly imprisoned,you will be fairly tried and then you will be fairly hung." Surely this guy should have known to get amnesty in writing if that was what he believed he would recieve.

From ally to adversary?

satch — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:23:10 GMT

unreal but what sickens me is the number of folks in the usa who think we have the right to impose our bs on other countries and think it is ok for thousands of men, women and children to die in the middle east because americans are scared of their own shadows.if we don,t stop this mess i can see us citizens being killed on the street in foreign countries and the cops in those places turning their heads because our leaders have pissed off many people around the world

From ally to adversary?

Jack Kreg, Lake Forest, CA — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 15:25:50 GMT

I wonder if Senator Clinton could explain to us, why then Pres. Clinton ran from his alies in Iraq, just when they were ready to hand over Saddam. In typical Clinton fashion, always run away from a tough fight. Hundreds of Iraqi alies were murdered by Saddam, I am sure that their relatives will vote for Hillary. Under a future Pres Hillary, American has only to look forward to many more attacks, as terrorists learn that our female Pres has no metal.

From ally to adversary?

The HillBilly Tradin' Post, Princeton, WV — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:12:28 GMT

Great story Richard. I really appreciate all of the work you are doning in Iraq. It's amazing! Please take care of yourself and ALWAYS wear you Flack Jacket and Helmet.
Be safe and God Speed,

From ally to adversary?

Randy H — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:21:28 GMT

U.S. policy on the treatment of other human beings is to treat them - INHUMAINLY

From ally to adversary?

damien,nm — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:30:21 GMT

If he was responsible for many innocents deaths, just by consipring to topple Sadam does in no way clear you of that. Who knows what is personal agenda was to topple Sadam? And what - if any - crimes did Talabani, Allawi or Shawani commit? If they are not on the hook for any war crimes, then it seems pathetic to say "hey let me off as I tried to help you once".

Guilty as charged. If his friend cannot commit him to be executed, that is understandable. Spend the rest of your time in Jail.

Nothing like being an arm chair Judge/Jury and exectutioner with a single page of an article as all the eveidence you need !!

From ally to adversary?

Depressed , SF, Ca. — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:33:56 GMT

These conditions exsist because of our goverment!!
Our "Decider" has lied , over and over again to get us involved in a war no one wanted...At least Saddam held the middle east in check.
Was Saddam the terrorist...or is Bush the terrorist??
Dont ask the Iraq's view on is it better now or before Bushes attack on a country that had nothing to do with 911..!! The terrorists won on 911...They got us watching for a attack and losing our rights as American citizens....If we change our lifestyles then the terrorists did win.
Thankyou Mr. Bush for keeping the world in turmoil and dependent on OIL.