Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

T. Hill, Carrollton, Texas — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:36:20 GMT

"hundreds of thousands"? Must have taken the talking points from the UN? "scarred much more by this war than the years they survived under Saddam Hussein." Wow that's a bold statement since Saddam killed an estimated 1.5-2 million people. "Dying normally has become a fantasy to Iraqis -- a wish we dream of having." These are the words written by one of our talented Iraqi staff. He can't write under his own name for security reasons, but here are some of the things that weigh on his mind." Iraqi Staff? Jamil Hussein? Give us a break you fraud of a reporter!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Daniel, Tallahassee, FL — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:42:00 GMT

WOW!!! May God bring this war to an end quickly.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Celine Segda, Jersey City NJ — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:46:14 GMT

Jane--I don't think any comment could possibly do justice to that story--just thank you for sharing it with us.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

A heartbroken JJ in NJ — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:51:52 GMT

How can anyone not have comments on this blog entry? Thank you, Jane, for posting this. Too many Americans don't seem to understand the very human toll the actions done in our name are having. The Iraqi blogger Riverbend has a heartbreaking post about a woman who was gang raped by the very Iraqi security forces we trained. This war is dehumanizing the Iraqis, and it's dehumanizing the men we are sending there to fight. The human toll is incalculable. We have allowed our president to ruin a country -- for no reason. Last night Michael Scheuer said on Countdown that when the next attack occurs, it will ahve been planned in Afghanistan or Pakistan -- NOT Iraq. There is no putting lipstick on this pig. This country is guilty of atrocities against humanity. We allowed it to happen. We re-elected the president who lied us into this war. And in November we elected too few people with the cojones to hold them accountable. The blood of these people is on all our hands.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Trav K., Boise, Idaho — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 19:59:22 GMT

Unfortuantely, most of this fighting, conflict, and strife could have been avoided had we actually went to the countries where the terrorists are hiding (Iran, Syria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia) rather than making Iraq a scapegoat for political means and inviting terrorists into the country.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

SML, Bedford, NH — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:04:03 GMT

In a time when we are being taught to believe that things are relatively black and white, that there is a clear enemy and a clear victim, it is important to remember, as this article demonstrates, that life is still life. And though it can be hard to understand for well-fed, well-rested Americans who know little of want and fear and grief, life is still a very precious commodity. I am left wondering if we've made things better or worse for the Iraqis we're allegedly trying to help.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

M. Hoover — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:11:21 GMT

What kind of idiot are you? You think those 300,000 people they dug up who were killed by Saddam are no big deal? People in Saddam's Iraq lived daily with the possibility his police would pick them up, torture them and kill them. I think you might call up the Kurds to get their opinon on all this.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Miles C. Mueller, Floresville, TX — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:11:34 GMT

Do you think everyone there would be better off under Saddam? You seem to insinuate that with your commentary. Being a free people is not free. It is paid for with years, sometimes decades, and in the case of the Jewish people a millenia of war, struggle and death before it finally happens. We Americans are blessed by the fact that our freedom came in a relatively short period of time compared to others. Yet we all share a common thread: We refuse to live under the boot of tyrants. And if there are people who would trade those precious freedoms to live under the perceived safety that a dictator like Saddam can offer, then they deserve neither liberty nor freedom.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Harry Gatley, Salt Lake City, Utah — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:12:06 GMT

Dear Friend in Iraq, I was living in Baghdad in 2003-2003 up until the war started. I was an Observer and International Consultant with the Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN. I travelled all over meeting farmers, distribution managers, etc. I remember many of my friends from iraq who worked alongide of me and lived nearby. It chills me now to read what you write as it has been almost 5 years since I heard from any of them. Ny Brother in Law still works in the Green Zone. He dropped by recently and recounted the incredible noise of the car bombs each day. One day while I was reading the newspaper in Baghdad a poem was there that touched me. The author wrote about seeing a gigantic pair of dividers walking like lightning bolts across Iraq. It was interesting because when I was only 5-6 years old I recall seeing the same image. In those days it was told to me that it represented the devil measuring out the earth. I am not terribly superstitious but there may have been some truth to the image. I only wish I could return to Iraq and find my old colleagues and friends alive but it sppears that may be unlikely. Worse is the fact that we were doing all we could to rebuild the cotton and fruit industry in Iraq as 3 years of drought and the lack of decent agricultural inputs was hurting it very badly. Now I hear there is nothing left of the work we did. Nobody seems to care about the average people anymore. All the idiots with nothing better to do than run around wreaking havoc are getting all the attention, money, food and shelter. I cannot imagine how long it will take for the Iraqi agricultural system to recover!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Dean in KY — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:17:35 GMT

I cannot believe what I just read! Where was the outrage over the hundreds of thousands of Iraqi people that were brutally murdered by Saddam? Murdered, maimed, gassed. Unbelievable.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

M. Johnson, Murrieta, CA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:26:56 GMT

Was Saddam Hussein a violent, dangerous tyrant? Absolutely! But, at least, while he was in control of the country of Iraq, its citizens knew who their enemy was and, generally speaking, what the rules were. The Iraqis are in a living hell now - not knowing who to trust or what the rules are. How can the Bush administration possibly feel that they've done these people any favors now? A poorly recruited, trained and underfunded military and pathetic planning and execution of the war effort has led to consequences more disasterous than anyone could have ever dared imagine. Now we have nuclear threats building in North Korea and Iran that we can do absolutely nothing about due to our lack of foreign policy credibility over Iraq. Where were the weapons of mass destruction? There are tens of thousands more innocent lives that have been lost in Iraq than in the World Trade Center attack and only one, single objective has been accomplished - the capture and death of Saddam Hussein. Was it worth it? Ask the Iraqis, who deserved the most say in this from the very beginning. I'm tired of being made to feel that I'm anti-American just because I'm anti-Iraq War. When I was nodding my head in full approval of Vladmir Putin's comments about how America has made the world a more dangerous place, I realized how digusting it is that I should be made to feel ashamed to be an American.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Dan Murphy — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:27:54 GMT

To the people of Iraq I humbly apologize for the horror inflicted upon you by this awful administration. I pray the congress finds the moral courage to stand up to the immoral tyrant known as President George W. Bush,so that one day your country is free of his vicious blindness.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Bo, Los Angeles, CA. — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:32:51 GMT

Some say "Newspapers" were invented to influence people's opinion. NBC & most liberal media is doing just that but their complete leftwing bias is almost embarrassing.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Tb Johns, Joman, Joman — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:32:57 GMT

This blog is just more proof of the liberal slant NBC is forcing on their "reporters". I guess NBC's tactics changed from just putting out lying crackpot reporting to lying crybaby crackpot reporting.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Geoff, Little Rock, AR — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:35:30 GMT

I appreciate you sharing this with us. For all readers of the article: It is important for us to remember that regardless of the reasons or the justifications used for going into Iraq, we are there now. A system of govt has been removed, as well as electricity, air conditioning, and employment for many people. Our actions caused that removal, whether or not one believes them just or unjust. All of us want our soldiers to come home, including the soldiers themselves. However we can't come home until we leave in place a system of governance that can protect the people of Iraq at least as well as we can that is strong enough to survive the inevitable assaults it will have when we leave. Its really that simple. It is our responsibility to see this through.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Tom F., Seattle, WA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:36:14 GMT

Why some people think dying under the guise of freedom is better than dying under Saddam is beyond me. Dead is dead. Nobody asked us there to liberate them. In fact the last time they did, America abandonded the Kurds to Saddam. So we sit here, smug in our safe little world and tell the rest of the world how freedom is so much better. Last time I looked Vietnam is doing fine without "freedom"

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Danny, Beirut — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:38:41 GMT

Unfortunately it's very difficult to make sense of all this, regardless from which viewpoint we see it from. It's simply the state of the world as we know it, if it's not in Iraq or Sudan it will be elsewhere. Because the root cause will always be there: The greed and hate in mens heart! Thank you for the Blog!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

M Palmer — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:38:43 GMT

T Hill - Where are you getting YOUR numbers? It is obvious that the average person in Iraq is NOT BETTER OFF that under Saddam. You live in Texas, land of Bush... No wonder you do not have any sense of what HE has done to this poor and getting-poorer country. Your insensitivity and american arrogance makes me ILL>

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Allan Chase — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:39:47 GMT

Name is not so important,life is.Any one who does wrong will get back in this world & hereafter.Thats what i know.For money & power people will do so many things you just cant imagine.What goes around comes around.Its just a matter of times before it happens.We should all just pray & hope god will forgive us.Ammeen.Thanks Allan,florida.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jim Paul — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:43:54 GMT

Oh the poor poor country of Iraq and it's suffering people since the big bad US liberated them from a murdering dictator and his 2 evil sons. After all, they would only torture and kill and rape the people who deserved to be tortured killed and raped. Oh, if only the good old days were here again. (Another load of manure compliments of the liberal left)

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

ss, boston, ma — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:45:22 GMT

To Dean in KY Saddam was then the friend of civilized West.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Randy, Chicago, Illinois — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:46:18 GMT

This war is a human tragedy of epic proportions largely ignored by the persons perpetrating it. I don't mean the soldiers that are fighting there, but Bush, et.al who have caused them to be there. What a monumental waste! Although I do not know where the information re: 300,000 deaths comes from, it would not surprise me if the actual number is close to that amount, and more get added every day. I just finished a book called "Franklin and Winston" about the relationship between Churchill and FDR. In several places in the book, both leaders were quoted as saying how important it was to tell the people the truth, whether the truth was good news or bad. Our current leaders obviously do not subscribe to that theory. I truly believe that if there is a hell, there is a special place in it reserved for those who take their country into war on false pretenses.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Ken in WA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:48:08 GMT

What's important to remember is that the number of deaths can be argued endlessly. Is "only" 50,000 dead Iraqui's somehow justifiable and 8-10 times that number isn't? "Kill Them All, Let God Sort Them Out!" isn't the answer even if there is the safety net of an afterlife! I don't believe that so if this is all there is then any--and all--deaths are terrible.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Casey R. Lock Haven PA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:48:20 GMT

How much did the liberals pay you? Cause I can't even begin to think how someone who lives in Iraq could say that on their own free will? Pelosi have you held hosatage?! Let us know we will come help you AGAIN!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

ts Ontario — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:49:29 GMT

I can't believe how gulible the American populace is. The war in Iraq was originally spun as a means to destroy Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. When this spin proved to be baseless, the threat of terrorism was the new spin the white house touted. Now it's the promise of freedom. Freedom from what? It's sad and unfortunate that both the Sadham regime which was initially encouraged by American foreign policy has now been replaced by a new regime that cannot control lawlessness and murder. I guess the gun slinger motto "live by the gun die by the gun applies here. There are no winners in this war, but for the arms dealers.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

norman selner, st. louis, MO — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:50:59 GMT

I don't understand the point of some who have commented here on the number of people killed by Saddam. It is as though they feel that they are being accused of supporting this war and must defend themselves. This blog is not about arguing for or against our war in Iraq. It is about the present lives of those who are living in violent chaos in Iraq. It is testimony that human beings live in Iraq,and that when mindless violence is a feature of every day living no one wins. There simply is no valid argument that innocent people have no reason to complain about dying at the hands of assassins and bombers just because it takes time to build a democracy. What nonsense! Cheap patriotism from here where no bombs are going off and no one breaks down our doors at night. And there is little point in harping on the futility of this war and pointing fingers at those who you think are to blame. It may help us prevent some future war, but it isn't going to save one life in Iraq. The point is that the carnage has to end and we need to find the way to make that happen.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Desiree, Washington, DC — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:51:06 GMT

It is hard for me to believe that there are still people in our country who can hold their head up and defend our administration. I pray for our President because he is our leader, but he makes me ashamed. I feel for the people in Iraq with my heart and pray for them. Being a mother, I try to put myself in their place and think of sending my child to school or letting them go out to play...I think of my husband leaving to go to work...or of me going to a market or to work and one of not coming home because of all of this insanity that we have started, and I cry for them. It was hard enough for me to let my loved ones out of my sight soon after the 911 attacks, but this is so much worse. And it is our fault. May God have mercy on us all...those making the decisions and those of us who have let this happen. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, but please know that there are a lot of Americans who realize this and are praying for the people of Iraq and our soldiers who are just being obedient.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Skippy, Poughkeepsie, NY — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:51:08 GMT

If you are going to try and change the course of human history, undoing thousands of years of traditional hatreds and customs...you'd better think long and hard about it and be prepared to go all the way...Global War on Terror? America's security depends on it? If the rhetoric is true how come there isn't a draft? How come average citizens are being asked to do more to support the cause? This war is being fought by poor people so that corporations like Haliburton can make money...

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Chris Dickinson, Stratford, Wisc — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:52:37 GMT

To M Johnson - interesting how you criticize the "poorly recruited, trained and underfunded military". Did you support the military reduction in force and base closure congressional bills during the 1990s? I'd bet you did. You can't have it both ways so don't use that argument. I can understand the feelings of the Iraqis in this blog; I am certain many of them live in fear. But at the same time do not not make broad strokes. You simply cannot say that this is the overwhelming feeling in Iraq. Accordingly, everyone here tries to rationalize their point of view. The truth is simple - the US took action to stop more attacks and in the process remove Saddam. We thought the Iraqis would stand up and fight for their freedom and be an ally to stop the ridculous growing terrorism against the US. It didn't happen. So now we are stuck. Get over the Bush hating - he did what he thought was the right thing. Do you want to do what is right? Then take true action - file petitions, get elected, protest, join the military, send troops letters and gifts. Don't just sit here and complain.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Maria, Cleveland, Ohio — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:52:38 GMT

It is because of people like Hill, power hungry right wing supremacists with imperialistic ambitions and inability to admit mistakes, that America is sinkng deeper and deeper into its inhumanity. Are we heading for Nuremberg II?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

ALISSTER-CHICAGO,IL — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:56:21 GMT

So the author can’t say his real name. Is that because of the United States too? Or is it because of the fun loving country called Iraq. These people are out of their element when it comes to the issues of our times. Iraq is just another turd world country that can’t keep up. If they didn’t have AK-47’s, they would still be chucking rocks at their food. I used to be more companionate for these people but to hell with them all. Their kids are going to hate us just as much as their parents. I say wipe them all out and save our kids from the same crap going on today. Now to you Middle Eastern vermin rabble-rousers, AMERICANS ARE GETTING TIRED OF THIS. ARMED AMERICAN CIVILIANS WILL HAVE NO MERCY ON YOU. WE HAVE NO RULES OF ENGAGMENT LIKE THE MILITARY SO TAKE YOUR JIHAD AND POUND SAND.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Sal Talun — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:56:39 GMT

There is no hope for this world . By anyones measure or estimate or guess the vast majority of violence in Iraq is Iraqis killing Iraqis . It was the same 5 years ago , 10 years ago 25 years ago . Blame someone else will not solve Iraqs many problems . Then there is the rest of the world , blame someone else , do not balme me because i hate and kill with my mouth .

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Zak D. Wass, Maui, Hawaii — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:57:04 GMT

Yes Saddam did kill hundreds of thousands of people, but our involvement is killing many more. Are Iraqis free? Their country is in chaos and everyday they have to fear for their lives more than under Saddam. He did do terrible things to the Kurds and Shiites but the country was much more orderly and the average people had a better life before we came in and changed the power structure. Before there were not widespread militias, before al-Qaida was not a big factor in Iraq, before there was steady electricity and water, before you could leave the house with much less chance of being killed that day. I did not like Saddam but I think it is ridiculous for the US, a country only two centuries old to try to implement it's own political system in the cradle of civilization, with over 3000 years of history. Nothing is black and white like Bush said it is. "We are fighting evil"... Senseless murder and widespread violence is evil, and we have only perpetuated it. But for the Bush administration is is serving it's purpose well...military contractors are making some good money :% :% :%. Someone is getting rich, you can bet on that. Now Bush just needs to make another 911 and blame it on Iran, so we can invade there too. I ask everyone to take a close look at all of the facts of the Bush administration objectively, and put your pride aside. See who benefits from all that has happened. It is sad that most people who support him don't look at the facts but attack the personal reputation of those criticizing Bush.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Charles, Seattle, Washington — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:58:08 GMT

This is very sad, but how can we blame this on the war, these people are killing each other; and will more than likely continue to do so once we leave; I think it's importnat for us to stay the course and help establish a strong democratic government that can put an end to this sensless civil war.....George W. Bush is a good man, who makes me proud to be an American......

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

brian, Chicago, IL — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:58:44 GMT

This is not saying things were ok under Saddam- they manifestly weren't. And I am not sure how someone can say matter-of-factly that it is worse or better now. It is different kinds of fear. This si the fear of chaos; under Saddam it was the fear of unbending power. Both are terrifying- it isn't a zero-sum game. And no amount of inane and callous platitudes like "freedom isn't free" can mask the suffering a total lack of understanding and criminal lack of planning brought to Iraq. Getting read of a tyrant was a good thing. Arrogantly assuming everything would be ok led to this horror. It is morally indefensible to yearn for Saddam to be back, just as it is morally indefensible to say "Saddam was awful" as a way of glazing over this abbatoir.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Michael, Mt. Vernon, Ohio — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 20:59:11 GMT

When the war first began I have to say I was in favor of it. As it has dragged on and the lies continue to take life I wonder when will it end. As a father of two young children, I am terrified that this president has doomed them to a life filled with a constent violence, death, nuclear threats and a govenment that that is no longer effective. How do we recover and how long can this country be lead down a road with only outcome. The democrats have talked and talked about doing something about all of this but they are NO different than the politicians they replaced. What a govenrment and what a situation.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Michael, Mt. Vernon, Ohio — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:01:10 GMT

When the war first began I have to say I was in favor of it. As it has dragged on and the lies continue to take life I wonder when will it end. As a father of two young children, I am terrified that this president has doomed them to a life filled with constent violence, death, nuclear threats and a govenment that that is no longer effective. How do we recover and how long can this country be lead down a road with only one outcome. The democrats have talked and talked about doing something about all of this but they are NO different than the politicians they replaced. What a govenrment and what a situation.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Anony Mous, Seattle,WA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:01:13 GMT

I think the Iraqis are more capable of speaking which state of their nation they preferred (between now and the Saddam Era), than any wingnut that needs to rationalize the current state of Iraq. If Al Gore any other Democrat would have been president and made the exact same choices GWB has, all the wingnuts would be enraged and screaming bloody murder.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

T. Grinston, Norfolk, Virginia — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:01:18 GMT

M. Johnson seems to eloquently state the truth of the matter without any doubts in my mind. My confusion has been in consideration of political standing in the international community. Since this war exacerbates the point that we are not intending any direct retribution for Sept. 11. This war had nothing whatsoever to do with 9/11. Nor did it have anything to do with humanitarian deeds. If humanitarian deeds of removing a monstrous tyrant who commits untold evils was the central concern, many other countries would have to encounter war with the United States. Many African countries have great told and untold atrocities, but no oil. Actors, actresses and some other people seem to represent decent humanitarian interests in those countries, though there are no upstanding national leaders interested in their plight. Might I add a lot of atrocities are committed against children. Children are sacred in every country in the world but this is of no importance worthy of interference or war. How ironic that this great United States would dismiss such ugliness over other interests?Hmmm...

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

HJ in fly over land — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:02:09 GMT

Hey geniuses.....most of the dead Iraqis were killed by Iraqis, or other radical muslim animals....not by U.S. troops. Why don't you morons try to concentrate on finding out facts instead of letting the drive by media form your entire opinion and thought process?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Gerardo — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:03:58 GMT

It is clear that bush has a game of his own, the more damege the better since the goal of a criminal is kill so is his goal. It is amaising that one person and mabe cople of others can lagh at the face of anation. The "heroes" that are fighting in Irak meaning the soldiers I desgrased them. It has past some time since they became sildiers and seased being woriers. I belive that it is their responsability to see who the fight for. Is it for the Nation? Or is it for the crazy belives of just one and a cople of others? A good warier woud be able to see that. If they give thair lives for the Nation like thei say they do, then save it for when the nation realy needs them. Sound hursh but I belive it is true. It is sad to see that the"heroes" are bing popets. It is sad to see how they fight for only one family and not for the Nation's families that are the ones that are truely worth the wile.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

B. Robinson, Jackson, Mississippi — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:07:14 GMT

Were do I begin...you know the saying majority rules?? Well, I wonder if we had taken a poll before invading Iraq would the majority of the Iraqis had voted for us to invade?? I can't help but to think not. Sometimes change can be good, but a lot of time it can be more devastating! Also, I think before Americans try to tell another country how they should run it we need to look in our own back yard. Unfortunately, many soldiers and innocent man, women and especially children have lot their lives....and do we truly know why??

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

D. Miller, Dallas, TX — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:08:33 GMT

That's normal, in short. Some people prefer having their lives plotted out, with clearly defined enemies, foreseeable no-future; others rather take a chance for freedom and liberty. I'm not agreeing with the action and timing of the war in Iraq, but, given the issues between Sunni and Shiite, the civil war will happen eventually. The problem is only magnified by the mishandling of the troop level by the Bush administration. When was the Middle East ever united? Is there not in-fighting between the Palestinians now? Israel is a very small place, if the Arabs hated them so much, and were united, Israel may not exist right now? The point is, the Arabs, the Middle East, has never been stable. People (the leaders) there have too much passion, too much hatred, too big an ego and nobody wants to take a step back and discuss things, to work things out. Repeatedly, words coming out of their mouths are: we want to wipe out our enemies. Their enemies could be other Arabs/muslims, Israel, the U.S., the West, etc. They are not willing to co-exist, they are not willing to face reality and respect the existence of other religion, culture, people. If they don't have a chance to kill Americans, they kill people from other tribes, other factions of the same religion, etc. With chaos comes opportunity. These insurgents, religious leaders are seizing this chaos (created by this incompetent administration) to take power, and the only way they know how to take power is by killing other people!? Oh, yeah, and they also sit on the energy resource the world needs, complicated enough? How about we just leave them alone, and when they are done killing each other, we go back in and pick up the pieces, probably much easier that way, yes?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Max Wood, San Diego, CA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:08:59 GMT

I think that is what they call terror. It is what the terrorists want, for people to be in constant fear of being killed. Then they will be too afraid to speak out against the terrorists. To emphasize the "civil war" aspects without even exploring how the terrorists are fomenting the civil war only plays into the terrorists game plan. Unfortunately the leftist biased media felt it was more important to sway the 2006 election towards the democrats then it is to win the war on terror. Now the democrats want us to cut and run which will lead to death in Iraq the likes none of us has seen. Maybe we should all just convert to Islam now and stop the needless bloodletting.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Roland, Orland Park, Illinois — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:09:18 GMT

Saddam killed Iraqis, Kurds and plenty of Iranians. George W. lied America into war with Iraq. But America got Saddam, so according to T.Hill, Dean, Miles and M. Hoover its all good and the Iraqis should be grateful and not mind the fact that theirs is now a country torn apart by civil war, that going to market, school, mosque - ANYWHERE - is a walk on the wild side from which you may not return, that there is no end in sight - but at least the Iraqis are "free". I just wish I was "free" to send T. Hill, Dean, Miles, M. Hoover and George W. to Iraq to let them experience the freedom our misguided country's leadership (or lack thereof) has wrecked on Iraq.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jay in PA. — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:09:21 GMT

It amazes me that people actually believe that it would be better to live "securely" under a dictator. No one talks about what our troops are doing to help: 364 schools rehabilitated, 263 under construction. 96% of Iraqui children under 5 have received the first 2 series of polio vaccinations. There are now 1.19 million cell phoen users. They now have an independent media consisting of 75 radio stations, 180 newspapers and 10 television stations. Freedom is expensive and costly. If anyone is ashamed to be American, I suggest you move, perhaps to Russia!! Try it out.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Octavious Gethers,Goose Creek, SC. — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:09:46 GMT

The prophet Isiah speaks about a man who has trouble the nations the world and would not open the door to his prisons, I believe would seen a reflection of this man in our president.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Julian Lopez — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:10:11 GMT

During Saddam Hussien, Iraqi people were being killed without the world knowing about it. Now we know. Now we know that they hate each other, and killing each other. The solution to all of this madness is to abandoned the religion they have been following for hundred of years, because their religion is the core source of all these killings, and murders. They have been doing this since the beginning of time, since camel, and swords were the tools of warfare, now guns, missles, IED's wmd's. They are getting better in killing people and themselves now that they got these weapons. They want to stop the killing, then abandoned their hopeless, evil, hostile religion. They have to live like human being for a change. technology is changing so fast, but their mentality have stand stil in the era of Mohammed.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Kevin in Dallas — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:10:16 GMT

I'm also perplexed why so many are gathered around an exploded car bomb, or horrible incident.. children playing amongst the debris.. common sense would suggest staying away from such atrocities, but everytime we see stories on the news, poeple are gathering around the debris. I've MANY friends in the war, the stories they tell are heart-breaking, angering, and sometimes even, comforting. We are there for a reason, some of you posting on this BLOG should talk this way to military families, and see what sort of answer you get.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Hans — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:11:36 GMT

What a surprise. NBC has located an anti-U.S. leftist journalist in Iraq. Yes, her comments are beyond prejudiced. They are flat out ludicrous. At this point why does anyone who wants a fair look at things bother with NBC and any of their affiliates? Do they even employ one unbiased journalist?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Bobster, Rockport Tx — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:28:13 GMT

Ms. Arraf, It is blatantly obvious that you are against the war. And that is your right to be so. What ever happened to reporters who were fair, who gave both sides of the story? I am no fan of this war. But that does not mean that I am going to just ignore all the atrocities committed by Saddam, and his henchmen. I can't help but think when the war started how all you reporters were so thrilled that the women in that country "had been liberated". But this war, like any guerrilla war will not be won anytime soon, if ever. And now that the going has become tough, I guess it is time for the so called tough to go back home. And with a press that reports only the failures, and a press that supports only one political party in this country, was there ever any doubt as to how the war would end. I don't think so. Its all a horrible political game supported by our politicians and their respective followers.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jennifer, Norwich, CT — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:30:27 GMT

It is surely true that the American invasion has made Iraq a living hell and committed the US to a disaster that is bleeding our country of resources needed to take care of our citizens and the real terrorist threat that is in Afghanistan-not Iraq. Additionally, it is a very effective recruiting tool for all throughout the Arab world who formerly had no bad feelings towards the US and now hate us. Who has made out well? The multinational corporations the war was engineered to benefit in the first place (oil companies, Halliburton etc.). The American people should realize from US policies that outsource all their jobs and waste all their defense money on non-defense related issues such as seizing oil and land...that the decisionmakers have already dispensed with the idea of nationhood as old-fashioned. They work for multinationals...not citizens and they beat a drum and ask you to think of the patriotism so that you'll put your life on the line to serve their purpose. How indebted and despised do you have to be people to realize you've been used?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

JGJJP BROOKLYN NY — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:30:52 GMT

I HAVE READ ALL THE COMENT AND CONCERN BUT NO SOLUTION.WELL MY IDEA TO THE WORLD IS TO FIND A COMMON GROUND ON THIS MATTER,BECAUSE YOU CANNOT STOP VIOLENCE WITH VIOLENCE

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Walter and Arlene Lucas, Bend, Oregon — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:31:37 GMT

Was Saddam a monster? Yes! Did he have anything to do with 9/11? No! My mother often said, "two wrongs don't make a right". We were wrong to invade Iraq and the people of Iraq are paying the price!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Val McKenzie Killeen, TX — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:32:38 GMT

The death and destruction in Iraq is hard for most Americans to imagine. However, I work near a large military installation and my job brings me in contact with soldiers on a daily basis. Some of them have seen so much horror that they are souless; life will never be the same for them. I am also a veteran and use the veteran hospital facility. There is a new generation of maimed, traumatized young men and women being treated, some as young as 19. We must pray that there is a swift and sucessful to the events occuring in Iraq for the Iraqis sake, the brave young men and women not only in America, but other countries that have served and, forthose that have lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

r.l. dillon,bellaire,ohio — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:35:46 GMT

the best answer for iraq is to give it back to iran & go home.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

James Tait Asheville NC — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:35:54 GMT

all of this was predicted back in the Kuwait war.That is why the elder Bush did not go to Baghdad.I read a little bit about the history of Iraq and I agreed with them .It would have been stupid to invade Iraq.Unfortunately no one in Washington appears to have any curiosity about the countries they invade.The same happened in Vietnam.I will never understand why GW Bush wanted to invade Iraq.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mark Racicot, Santa Clara, CA — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:36:13 GMT

It sickens me most that my fellow Americans would rather see a Saddam-led Iraq than the Iraq of today. If the situation was reversed and we had a Saddam-like figure running this country, we'd be praying for an 'America' to rescue us - even if the price was suicide bombers attacking civilians. Eventually, freedom will win this battle, but only if we see it through to victory. Apologists: you're addressing the 10% of Iraqis who want us to leave so they can retake Iraq. Why are you so bent on letting the Sunni regain their oppression of the Kurds and Shia? Just because "people knew basically what the rules were"? How absurd. Tell your line of reasoning to the 1.5 million souls Saddam used to "keep the peace". People who think that Saddam's peace was better than today's chaos are probably the same people who said that Communist Russia was better off before we won the Cold War... Poppycock! For those who say the Iraqis we're training aren't sufficiently trained...you have a point, but you also must remember that these forces come with centuries of sectarian and secular baggage that we can't just train out of them in a 10-week or even 100-week "police academy". The factions involved have been fighting for generations, and it will take time, and inevitably blood, to work things out sufficiently for both sides to let go of the hatred and instead use that energy for the benefit of all Iraqis. The price, as steep as it is, and as steep as it is likely to go, is worth it to attain the prize: SUSTAINABLE peace rather than the peace of an absolute dictatorship enforcing peace. Just because America had it comparatively easy doesn't mean that every conversion from opression to freedom will be as easy.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Rick M., Mt. Vernon, IL — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:36:33 GMT

While going into Afghanistan had merit I have never supported the war in Iraq because there was no smoking gun and I don't believe pre-emptive war is what the U.S. is or should be about. The old idiom "better the devil you know than the devil you don't" may apply here. Even Pres. Clinton had Saddam effectively under control with an occasional smart bomb and the no-fly zone. Too many of our best have made the ultimate sacrifice while those who question the war are accused of emboldening the enemy. Enough.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

tony zikesh — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:37:26 GMT

The intentions of our contry are just. To provide freedom for Iraq and eliminate a murderous dictator is commendable. Unfortunately - Islam does not seem to favor freedom. The only way this war will ever end is when the Muslim extremists realize that killing each other and anyone that is not a Muslim - is wrong! Until the Muslim leadership stands up to condemn these acts and assure each suicide bomber that he is humiliating their family and faith and that there will not be 72 virgins waiting for him to pleasure - we will always get what we have always gotten.... This has become a holy war and so far the Devil (Islamic extremisim) is winning. There will be no end to this until the world wakes up to see that anyone who is non-Muslim is a marked person for extermination! Even other Muslims that don't think like one of the various extremist groups are at risk... What a sad world we live in and one our children will be plagued with...

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

J Fisher - Sand Springs - Ok — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:39:34 GMT

The problem in Iraq can only be solved by the other major players in the ME. I think "ALL" Iraqs should go to Sryia, Jordon, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Kuwait. How fast would these governments move as one to put this situation right. We have no right to be in Iraq. We still have unfinished business in Afganistan. The ME will cease to be important once all the oil is sucked out. We should all drive gas-guzzling SUV's. Anyone want to guess what these OPEC nations export other than oil and hatred of the USA.....death to all Muslims...let the ME rot I say...really do not care about how many die...as long as it's them and not us.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

joseph — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:43:34 GMT

The guy from Texas obviously has no clue and wished to deny the facts just like his "lying pRESIDENT". As a Christian Iraqi, I tell you we have killed more Iraqis then all died in prior wars combined. We have made the lives of the "Christian Minority" equal to HELL, not to mention all Iraqis of ALL sects. I will bet that you pretend that you are a CHRISTIAN, the George Bush type!!!!!!!!!!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

peter gusa, toronto, canada — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:43:43 GMT

this is 21st century, we(US) speak english, arabs and other languages so do other country like Iraq. So for this guy (Bush) to utilizes war at this time? i will be suprised if bush wont meet Sadam in the HELL, because they are both killers. we all know if Bush was not in the power, there was no a war.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Rich Collins — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:44:49 GMT

Hundreds of thousands of people have not been tortured and killed by ghosts but by living breathing men who walk among the victims and who are known by collaborators or sympathisers. They are neighbors harboring the murderers and there seems no outcry orsanction or retribution directed at them. Thus the carnage persists, and will persist, because it is accepted.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Tony Englert, Durango, Colorado — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:45:29 GMT

I can only hope that in the center of all this madness that looks to worsen before any improvement, that 30-50 years from now there is good that is coming from all this that today we cannot see.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

T. Hill, Carrollton, Texas — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:46:10 GMT

"Insurgents kill more than 100 since Sunday, defying security surge" That's a bit more than 33 per day but 65% less than the numbers the AP, NBC and the other MSM idiots were touting at the end of last year. Sounds like the surge is working to me.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Rich Collins, Ogdensburg NJ — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:46:12 GMT

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Chris, Chicago IL — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:46:17 GMT

I don't think anyone would suggest that Iraqis would like to have Saddam back, but to argue that things are MUCH better now is dishonest. Even if you accept an inflated 1.5 million death toll from Saddam, that means 187/day vs. the current 100+/day. Add to that the desperate refugee crisis (approx 1.7 million Iraqis displaced), the barely functioning infrastructure (4 hrs of power in Baghdad/day) and a sectarian Civil War with no end in sight, and the picture on the ground (as the Iraqi blogger points out) isn't pretty. Maybe someday this Iraqi blogger (who can't even use his name for fear of being killed) will live in a peaceful, democratic Iraq - that day looks just as far away now as it did in 2000, before Saddam's fate was sealed.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

joseph — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:47:03 GMT

God Bless, Jane, for the TRUTH. Eat you heart out you tEAXN.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Joseph Acerra — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:11:44 GMT

Saddam had a Stalin-style police apparatus wherein a certain percentage of the population had to get the knock on the door to keep everyone else terrified and in line. One innocent death is too much of course but I'd rather be lost in trying to establish something better than as an example made by the secret police to keep a mudering tyrant in power.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Melissa Smith, Fairbanks, Alaska — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:12:23 GMT

First of all, opening statement couldn't be any more misleading! The great majority of the civilian deaths are not caused by the U.S. or our Soldiers-the murders are caused by the terrorists and militants that occupy the country! Iraq's own people are killing eachother. I pray they die a natural death as well, but I would pray they stop murdering eachother first. Terrorism and ethnic/religious conflict has been around the middle east long before the United States was even a country.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Andrew Davis, Fletcher, NC — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:12:49 GMT

This is what happens when we try to make war "humane" by using smart bombs and going to extremes to avoid civilian deaths. What is worse, a sanitized version of war lasting years upon years with civilian deaths mounting up day by day. Or, a short conflict where we have zero tolerance and level mosques and neighborhoods that harbor the enemy, resulting in initially high casualties but bringing resolution much quicker. Personally, I prefer the latter. You can't make war acceptable by sanitizing it with small body counts over long periods and no complete surrender by the enemy. Get in destroy all who resist and get out.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Bob M. Valparaiso In — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:14:41 GMT

M. Johnson, then go live in the Soviet Union with your friend Putin.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Justin, Fallbrook, Ca — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:16:43 GMT

Ah yes I remember Iraq used to be a happy place where children flew kites and people swam in pools of gold. Then came america with its greed and destroyed a utopian nation. Hopefully those "freedom fighters" in Iraq, who with support of their neighbors may finally rid the middle east of the Great Satan and then Israel the little Satan. Then sharia freedom shall reign! Sharia freedom for all! (except women, children and any non-muslim) Sharia in Europe and Asia then America! Whhooooraaaaaaaay!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

charles-Portland, Or. — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:16:58 GMT

The responsibility for all of the death rests in the hands of the current administration. If there had been truth instead of lies about why to go to war, none of this would have occured. Now that it has occured God have mercy on those in the administration, who according to their belief, their inhumane actions will land them diretclty in hell.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mark, Bronx NY — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:18:07 GMT

Its a shame that this stuff is happening. Its not only in Iraq, its everywhere. In the 80's South America was a killing field in theatres like nicuaragua, El salvador, and Peru. The 90's you saw Africa and Slavick nations. Its ugly but the root of this all is Money and Nationalism. These people kill for Identity and the chance to put a million in their account. The international community has no teeth.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Dehota, — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 22:19:25 GMT

I would like to say that the article illustrates a picture of modern day Iraq. If Dean, Myles, and T Hill would like to come to Iraq with me and see how legitimate these statements are, then they are more than welcome. Saddam needed to be removed from power, however, there is a right way of doing things and we chose the wrong way. Unfortunately, Iraq has always been a tormented country along with most of the countries in that region. The people do not know any better so they are not empowered enough to care for themselves in a diplomatic way. They know only what they have seen by thier governement and the governments that "help" them. Rather than fighting a pointless battle, the people of the world need to focus on helping these people and teaching them what is right and what is irrelevent.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Ryan Elliott Sugar City, Colorado — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:15:57 GMT

I can't believe that they stated that Sudamm was better then having America in there. I belive that this was a war waiting to happen even if it was in 2003 or 10 to 20 years down the road. And it would of started in a Democratic or republican controll. War is always going to be hard but it can also be good. We got suddamm out of control and now we r tyring to control the choas in iraq. This war is important to stay in and win this war, because if we leave now so idiot will gain control of it and we will be stuck in the same place we were with suddamm. Not only this but r contry cannot pull out of another war. 4 in arrow is alot to go in and then get cold feet and pull out. But pulling out can signal to many terrorists that the american people or goverment cannot handle a very long war. so to them why not start a war they might lose a couple thousand peole but in the end the hurt america even more. I think that we must Trust Bush and send 21,000 more troops to iraq. i know that is is a hard thing to swallow but if that is what we need to do to win this war then do it so then we can get out of there this decade. and NBC don't be so libreal

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Chargualaf, — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:21:46 GMT

For those of you who have served this country in its call to arms, I salute you. Can you believe that there can be a world free from massive wars? Can you believe there will be two people who think alike? Before those from that region set foot on this land, and called it america, there was such a world. Now it is gone. And it is due only to greed. The thing man prasies most it to be known and the greed to own stuff. Until we walk the road to being a true human being, we will never know peace. This is our test. We are not doing very well. As for this government or that government. Both are just as bad as the other. You must look into your heart. See what is expected of you, and walk the true road. I hope that some day our greatgrand children will receive this earth and say, we can walk in peace.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Bruce K, Washington DC — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:35:18 GMT

Comparing the condition under Saddam's regime and the current situation is like comparing apples and oranges. As most of us have been taught, we cannot do this comparison because the two items are not of the same entities. Saddam killed millions of people to create the illusion of harmony and peace in the Iraqi society. With the fall of Saddam, people were let to breath for a bit. Most of us remember the short period of time after his fall; most people in Iraq were grateful of the bravery of men and women in the coalition forces who removed Saddam. Most were living under the harshest condition but they were relieved of the brutality of a tyrant who ruled them with iron fist and crushed any voice of dissent. However, a short period of time after that, and partly because of the lack of competence of the Bush's administration, the most reactionary and barbaric part of the society took hold, namely religious zealots. The fact that different factions are trying to wipe their rivals in Iraq has nothing to do with the removal of one of the most barbaric and brutal regime in the region, after Iranian regime, of course. The best solution for this situation for the US to back out of the country and let the situation take its course until the different factions of the most barbaric form of religion would come to realize that killing innocent bystanders will not help their causes.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Alee — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:45:43 GMT

It is amazing how differently people perceive things. Some in the comments have condemned what we are doing in Iraq, others have tried to justify it under the pretext that Saddam was a tyrant who killed millions. The question is if Saddam was who he was and what he did to his opponents in Iraq; do we have the right to do the same in the name of liberating Iraqi people. Saddam was a tyrant. We helped him in killing those millions of people by supporting him and selling him WMDs, biological and chemical weapons. The weapons were made by American companies and the funding for those weapons came from American lenders. We are not in Iraq for love of democracy or to help Iraqis. The people have of Iraq have been subject to indignity first by a dictator and then by an occupying force. We are in Iraq for political and economic reasons. If our aims were altruistic, we would have been fighting for the people of Saudi Arabia against the tyrany of the family of Saud and all nations being ruled by despots, tyrants and dictators. One last thing that I would like to bring up here is that we blame Iraqis for killing each other. We destroyed the government, the bureaucracy, administrative bodies, law enforcement agencies and judiciary in Iraq. Imagine not having the police here! imagine what we, the most civilized people in the world, would do to each other.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

don — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:55:00 GMT

Without media terrorist attacks would be worthless. Our own media supports terrorist attacks buy their diligent coverage of it. The war in Iraq was never about freeing the Iraqi people. It's about securing U.S. interests in the region and using it as a springboard for quick reaction against our enemies. I don't care about Iraqis all I want to know is how long is it gonna take to pump our oil out of their ground. No point in trying to win the hearts and minds of animals.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mark, Boston, Ma — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:55:43 GMT

A brother is tied to a chair, his breath snarling through his nostils. His feet twist and writhe against the cords at his ankles, fingers flashing open and close like a stop light, as a black soul, lost to the devil, exacts an excrutiatingly painful operation upon this mortal body. A sister stands against the back wall of a room at home. Her arms are raised to level in front of her body. Palms turned up toward her assailant in a mindless, instinctive sign she seems to be waving very fast; they read: "NO!". She is cold. She does not feel herself. Terror is not new in Iraq. Indeed, it is not new in the world. It is abundant in the hearts and minds of millions. It lives, like a virus, in dark recesses throughout the universe. There once was a dictator in Iraq. He may not have understood that he was an innoculation; the bit of the virus that kept the full brunt of the virus from filling and consuming the hearts, minds and souls of the whole. He deserved no credit. He had no heart, yet his blood ran. Ran cold. He is gone now. And there is nothing to stop the icy terror from filling every void left in that forsaken land. And you ask Iraqis to act. But they are frozen. They do not feel themselves. Can a nation such as ours win against an evil as great as exists in Iraq today? How big is your heart? How brave are you? Would you enter these neighborhoods where the so called cowards live, with, perhaps, a stick for protection? Bring your children? The vast majority of Iraqi people are living in a nightmare, the likes of which 99.9999999% of americans have never known, unless they too, came from such places. How can we judge them? If we decide to pull out of Iraq, we should at least admit that a score of very decent, even wonderful people are being mutilated, surpressed, terrified, killed. And that we lack the will to prevent it. And, yes. We started the downward spiral this time. And yes, it was easier for Iraqis to live under Saddam Hussein. They tell us so, and I believe them. And so we have taken him out, though the Iraqis said "Please! NO!" And you ask, "Is this worth the lives of americans?" Maybe you should ask what it is to be an american?" That feeling that you have as you walk down the road, head high, chest out, proud, confident. As one blogger so aptly pointed out, americans voted to give this administration another four years AFTER learning of the less than credible basis for going in in the first place. Well, now look what we have done. And we can't blame it on the administration anymore. And so what do we owe the Iraqi people? The good ones that begged us to stay out? The wonderful families with children and brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers. The people like ourselves that just want to work for a better life, walk and play with the kids, pray on their holy days, maybe indulge an education? And who are we and what are we as a people if we, ONCE AGAIN, renig on our promise to stay and protect them. Perhaps we will no longer be americans. Or, worse, we may actually destroy America, and what it means to be an american. Americans, not just this administration have made a commitment for the safety and well being of a people. It's easy to suddenly be pragmatic, but, this time, more is at stake. We have to stay. We have to keep our promise. There is no other alternative if we are to be americans that stride proudly and confidently through life. And I don't think this american can co-exist with any other kind. I vote we stay, and we do what it takes, even if it takes more troops. After all, we promised. And that should still mean something to a real american.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

E.M. Rice, MA — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 01:33:25 GMT

Where is the comment I posted over an hour ago? If you don't intend on posting, I expect an explanation! Thank you.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Kathy Wauwatosa,WI — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 01:41:49 GMT

To Jay in PA I would be very interested in knowing the sources from which you obtained you "facts". I have been attempting to find out more information on what our troops and government have been doing in Iraq with regard to any rebuilding. We hear that there is rebuilding going on, but have you actually seen any single picture of anything we have rebuilt? If we truly are doing so much rebuilding, why aren't the right wing media showing us evidence of it? Also, I have heard that the US has built the world's largest embassy in the world in Iraq, at a cost of millions and millions of dollars, and that we have built 12 - 14 permanent military bases there as well. I have yet to see any pictures of them, either. If this administrations true intent is to "bring Democracy to Iraq" and allow them to govern themselves, why construct permanent US military bases there??

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Tom Martin, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 01:48:10 GMT

What's happening is a tradegy - for the Iraqis mainly, but for our own country, too! For us to be obsessed with our 3100 brave troops lost, as we should be - but unwilling to even try to keep track of the 650,000 (best estimate) Iraqis dead as a result of our invasion, says very, very much, both about why our invasion has been wrong, and why we are losing the "war on terrosism".

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Svenskjaveln, Miami, FL. — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:01:22 GMT

T Hill, you are the most insensitive and ignorant person in this forum. To even dispute ANY deathtoll statistic in this context shows us exactly how little you grasped of this article. If you would dare to step out of your entrenched xenophobic mindset, you might be able to appreciate the staggering human suffering that these people are enduring. I guess you'd take a different stance if it was AMERICAN lives on the line. It's sad how little regard some people have for humanity... hopefully humanity can do without you one day, too. And oh, "God Bless".

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jane Doe, Seattle, WA — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:09:39 GMT

Some of your comments are making me sick.. is not the death of some "natural?" considering the circumstances? And, to Jane Arraf - I admire your (five) columns at this NBC site.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Korvath, Anchorage, Ak — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:13:52 GMT

Dehota, and you decide what is right or irrelevant. We had no right to do what was done. Nobody in the world except the good people of the USA believe that the aim was spreading democracy. Everybody and his uncle knows, except the good people of the USA that the reason we are there is OIL, and to get rid of our old arms so the military industrial complex can go ahead and manufacture a new arsenal to be tried out on a helpless foreign country every twenty or so years. With a few thousand of our kids thrown in for good measure. We don't even provide for our wounded when they return home. Instead, the rich gets another tax cut, and our veterans go on welfare, our elderly go without health care, their medicare benefits cut, medicines we manufature are sold in Mexico at less than half of what WE must pay. What the hell has happened to America??????

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Korvath, Anchorage, Ak — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:24:59 GMT

We had no right to do what was done. Nobody in the world except the good people of the USA believe that the aim was spreading democracy. Everybody and his uncle knows, except the good people of the USA that the reason we are there is OIL, and to get rid of our old arms so the military industrial complex can go ahead and manufacture a new arsenal to be tried out on a helpless foreign country every twenty or so years. With a few thousand of our kids thrown in for good measure. We don't even provide for our wounded when they return home. Instead, the rich gets another tax cut, and our veterans go on welfare, our elderly go without health care, their medicare benefits cut, medicines we manufature are sold in Mexico at less than half of what WE must pay. What the hell has happened to America??????

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Arturo Jabra'il Sancho, Medicine Bow, Wyoming — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:35:27 GMT

Islamic violent jihad is the Weapon of Mass Destruction. I've wished for my God given right to a natural death all my life, but the senseless dogma of an angry Arabian religion has kept me from sleeping comfortably since childhood. Angry Muslims of the world; what goes around, eventually comes around. In the clash of civilizations, there will be winners, and there will be reservations. The Saudi Arabian Reservation.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mark S Sarasota Florida — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 03:31:06 GMT

I have read and read. Does anyone have a clue? Iraq is up for grabs to the group of religious fanatics who have the most bodies to throw at the "war". Other countries fanatics are sending bodies to fight Iraq in their struggle to have the right of freedom. Freedom from a dictator and freedom from other religious tyranny. In America, our rights come from a belief in God. Muslim beliefs come from a man. Either way, freedom to have religion, should not be dictated by the entity with the biggest gun. In America, we have evolved into a society that whines until we get what we want. Booker T. Washington said, "Work and get respect". We seem to be letting the Iraqis whine so we won't leave. Can't they "just get along" and be responsible for themselves. Tell their neighbors to stay out of Iraq until the Iraqis settle their own disputes?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mark S Sarasota FL — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 03:36:15 GMT

I am curious who Jane works for, really? Money or Truth. Suicide bombers get into Heaven if they kill their enemy in war. So, when the war is over, does that mean no one else will get into heaven? Or do they only keep men from getting 40 virgins? Oh, by the way, do female suicide bombers get 40 virgins too?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

M S Sarasota FL — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 03:40:53 GMT

Maybe the people clawing for Iraqi soil would do better if they got a shovel? Or maybe an entire tractor and plow. Either way, it has to be tough to plow or dig for oil through a glass desert. Wasn't there an Iraq/Iran war a couple of decades ago? Why would Iran let religious fanatics go to Iraq if they hated each other enough to have a war about it?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Patrick (Doc) Ferguson Sr. — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 03:56:37 GMT

As an American and as a disabled Vietnam Veteran, I personally was not gullible to believe everything that was told to us American Citizens. The problem is one of helplessness over the entire situation. I have spoken to my congressman and senators and asking how do we get out of this mess. The President just stated it started on my watch but will not end on my watch. I am watching veterans now returning to find the same situation many of us Vietnam vets found. Funding being cut for V.A. and disabilities. I have been lucky with a V.A. center in my home town and a regional one a short distance away. Since my disabilities were service connected I have not had long waits for reconstructive surgery for my legs. Now the problem is men of my age category, positive for agent orange have developed CLL that Chronic Lymphatic Lukemia and I also developed M.S in my late 50's. Now they recognize, CLL, M.S. P.T.S.D. I have an electric cart that lifts into my van so the V.A. certainly has taken care of me alright medically. What about all our new vets with, Gulf War Syndrome, spent uranium shells, innoculations that nobody tested in the time that would be required for civilian use. Tours of Duty? Marines 8 mos and back other branches the same way. This is burn out time, I will back our veterans 100%. By God its time to cut our losses and pull them out of there, Believe me we won't lose face. Our foreign policy really in terrible shape. We do not have the respect from any world leaders. Now we have Russia who is worried and stepping up their military and Naval forces because of our anti-ballistics capabilities, We don't need to get into a cold war situation because of our very brash political attitude that we can do this with our military. Congressmen and Senators, run do not walk with your military age children to the nearest recruiting office as we are going to need more new recruits to continue what your are doing. Be a patriot and enlist your boy and girl and go on T.V. to show that your going to do your part also. As a citizen we have our hands tied. No one will listen to us. We just continue to pay taxes and our children are doing the dying. What ever happened to all the news coverage each night of the caskets arriving in the United States with the flags draped on them News media start covering the return of these bodies of men and women, Ask the parents, brothers, sisters if their loved ones died for a deserving reason The bad guy has been hung let that country work out its problems over religion factors. They have only been fighting about this for over 1000 years.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Aaron Luke, Austin, Texas — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 07:01:16 GMT

Wow. When a compassionate person who gives minimal attention to facts reads these comments threads, it is disheartening. The state of discourse in America is appaling to say the least. I am an American that has traveled to many countries in Asia and the Americas and nowhere in the world have I encountered an educated person that held the belief that America went into Iraq for any kind of "humanitarian intervention" or to "bring democracy to Iraq" (this includes many of the military personnel I've spoken to). This is just my personal experience, take it for what you will, but I believe that this reflects popular world opinion. Look it up. Yes, Sadam was a monster. But as the non-binding resolution of the European Parliament stated "a pre-emptive strike would not be in accordance with international law and the UN Charter and would lead to a deeper crisis involving other countries in the region". Under the Nuremberg Principles the attack of Iraq is "a war of aggression" which is considered the "supreme war-crime". These are facts, I'm not making this up, I'm not a "lefty". This makes the US the perpetrator of war-crimes. As we've seen the rationale shift from WMD's to "democracy building" to protecting the world from Iran it is becoming painfully obvious that the media has failed in it's self-proclaimed mandate as the fourth estate. The mainstream media outlets and the pundits just tow the party line. There is no honest critique in the mainstream media of the mainstream media, for obvious reasons. For anyone who has interest in facts there is among our country's historical record many demonstrations of cognitive contortions. There is available a wealth of evidence that Americans are probably one of the most highly propagandized populations in the world at this time.(for a strat see the Misperceptions, the Media and the Iraq War article on http://www.worldpublicopinion.org) In my opinion, I think there should be much more reporting from the viewpoint of the Iraqi people in the press. What do the Iraqi's themselves think? Who knows? I think I'll go look it up. I would like to suggest that people take a more critical approach to all media, all across the spectrum. Without verified facts there can be no discourse and without informed discourse there is no democracy.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Pei Chuan Koay, Yerevan, Armenia — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 08:35:03 GMT

I've been told that the boys at War College and other military institutions have all been doing a lot of heavy drinking over the Iraqi theater of this war. They are astounded and befuddled at how the Bush administration have habitually disregarded military counsel from day one. To their credit the military continue be the loyal opposition to Bush/Cheney's leadership even as more and more rank-and-file have taken a stand on this ill-conceived Iraqi campaign. Kudos should go to the head of the Joint Chief of Staff who recently disagreed with Bush administration's assessmentthat the Iranian gov't was complicit with certain roadside bombs going off in Iraq. For those of you who are branding us all unpatriotic, disloyal, freedom-hating, media-loving liberals, let me ask you this: Q: Why did Bush I stop short of taking over Baghdad after Schwartzkopf and our troops routed the Iraqi republican forces during the first Gulf War? A: Because he heeded the wise counsel that toppling Saddam Hussein would pit Shiites and Sunnis against each other triggering a civil war. Bush II did not and now we have an "insurgency." Q: Why have the community of nations and the Muslim world (most of whom are NOT Arab, by the way) not question our continued engagement with Afghanistan? A: Because Afghanistan was the site of an al-Qaeda base and training camp and Osama bin-Laden was said to have fled there after 9/11 bombing of NYC and DC. Q: Ask the Vice President how much capital gains and dividends he declared on his 2000, 2003 and 2006 tax statements from a company he's had a long-time affiliation with and, until was a major contractor in this war on terror. Assignment: The generals would tell you to "follow the money" and see who stood to profit most from this - whether we win or not.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Kristy, Missouri — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 08:46:12 GMT

If someone cannot write under their name for whatever reason, then they shouldn't write at all. Especially to have it published by national news media.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Josef Balzer Askeaton Ireland — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 09:09:41 GMT

Thank you, Ms. Arraf- for having a conscience: It's become a rarity among many of your colleagues these days.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jane Ewing,Newark,oh — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 09:41:19 GMT

Stoping the war is not the answer. The death and destrution will continue even if we are not there. The only way to solve the problems in the Middle East is for the people to come out of the dark ages and change their mindset. As long as the embrace death and destruction instead of life and liberty nothing will change.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Steve, Louisville, KY — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 10:56:18 GMT

I spent a year in Iraq. If Hundreds of thousands have died since this war started, I would have seen dead bodies everywhere. At the very least I shound have seen Hundreds of funerals since I spent a majority of my time traveling throughout Iraq. I passed many cemetaries and saw nothing. I just wish the TRUE facts were reported so people could make an informed judgement about the war. Whether you like the President or not, we need honesty and integrity when it comes to the news.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

stephen — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 11:48:46 GMT

who really cares, you bloggers are mostly spoiled anyway. born and raised in freedom, never having to fight for anything. The iraqi's are suffering for the freedoms we helped provide, they are blessed to have us there to help. our founding fathers fought and defended this nation without help! and paid a much heavier price than the iraqi's ever will. If america had to fight for our own freedom today, i bet most of you would surrender, a human life is just too important. right?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Rob, Sydney, Australia — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 11:59:30 GMT

Someone mentioned civilian death in Iraq to be 300,000? Well try doubling that http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/10/AR2006101001442.html Disgraceful!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

dave charles, xenia,oh — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 12:20:53 GMT

in one of the blogs the writer talks about the arms dealers being the only winners in this war. the vise-president and the presidents father are among the winners. i also believe that the president is one of the winners!!!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Astrochronic — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 15:04:03 GMT

What I just cannot understand is why so many people are so ignorant to the consequences if we retreat from Iraq. I don't mean to our image I mean to the Iraqi people. If we pull out it will degenerate into full scale civil war. Genocide will ensue. Al-Qeada unrestrained will gather recruits(as will other radical regimes), Iran will align itself with the Shiites openly and claim righteousness because their enemy will be Al-Qaeda. Al-Qaeda will claim righteousness as the protectors of the minority Sunnis. The death toll will sky rocket. But I guess all of us at home will just be happy that our soldiers will not be among the dead any longer. Who, I wonder will cry out for intervetion then? It sickens me to see our Congress who was complicit in instigating the situation in Iraq, try so desparatly to undermine our position and our integrity as a nation by suggesting we just give up and leave the mess behind. If we pull out and allow Iraq to disintigrate then democracy has failed miserably once again and we as a nation have learned absolutly nothing from Vietnam. I suppose the counter argument to that is our Demacracy tempers our power and authority. Without our democracy there would be no restraint on our unsurppased superiority. That of course begs the question that without our democracy would we have ever been able to achieve such dominance. We as a nation are losing our moral clarity. When moral clarity is lost things like Columbine happen. People like Anna Nichole Smith ascend to super star status. People like Micheal Moore exploit the confusion for political and ideological agandas. Our political system fractures and our society becomes tumultuous. Perhaps this is part of a healing process or a toughening of our skin so to speak. Perhaps its is a cancer that is breaking down our nation slowly and surely as entropy infects every facet. Time will tell. --ASTROCHRONIC--

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

bryan, chambersburg, PA — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 15:24:03 GMT

How Nieve do you have to be to actually think ending this war will bring an end to the killing or even a decrease? Like it said 'a friend's brother who is Sunni -- was killed in front of his parents because of his family name. He was 18.' They kill each other cuz of who they are Not cuz we're there.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

M Berger New Jersey — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:04:23 GMT

Many of the comments I've read (T. Hill's notwithstanding) are right on appropriate, and I fully agree - it is wrong for us to be in Iraq, and it is we who have started the firestorm, there (Bush and Co. leading the charge). The fact that a T. Hill can express his opinion in our own country is good: it is a sign of freedom of speech...but, Iraq is an entirely different animal - we are trying to undo more than just Saddham's tyranny against his own people, we are trying to turn hundreds (if not thousands) of years of factional hatred and reprisals based on Shiite or Sunni (and the Kurds are next in line, vis. the Turks) affiliations. Democracies cannot work in environments like Iraq - it is a war-ground where long-standing animosities reign supreme; and now, a place for insurgents from other Arab countries have full reign to kill anything that moves or coughs or cries. It is sad, what Bush has done, and in what name - he has lied to us from the beginning, and now tells us that if we do not see this through we are against our troops and are working to see Al-Qaida and its ilk (and there is plenty of its ilk around, believe me) follow us to our shores. Well, I've got an idea - let's take our brave troops (and brave they are, believe me) and bring them home and use them to protect our own shores by shoring up our own country's internal defences. Right now, we are seen as worse than imperialists, and what's left of our friends (the Brits stand out, here) are abandoning us (they see the valuelessness of our hideous enterprise). Soon, we will have bigger problems than Bin-Laden leading a new charge against our shores...we will be the world's pariah - and, our economy and personal lives will suffer beyond comprehension. I am only one American citizen, and this is only my own prediction - but there is an old saying, made stale by so much overuse over the years, that is now so relevant and true - I'll add an intro: "Mr. Bush, remember that two wrongs don't make a right - stop the slaughter now by finding what is left of your humanity - use what is left of your lousy presidency to do some good by bolstering our internal intelligence gathering capabilities with this younger generation you are fracturing. Admit that we went into Iraq to satisfy your own needs and aspirations, and not to free anyone from tyranny or WMDs or to fight terrorism. The terrorists are indeed here, on our own shores, even now: they are sitting in the White House, supported by some idiots in the cubicles of Congress, some of whom are actually salivating at the thought of succeeding you as president (God help us all!!). Bring our young people home, and let the Iraqis do whatever they will do - they are much more dangerous to themselves than they are to us. And take the insurgents out of the equation: don't provide them with any more juicy targets by ordering one new "surge" of troops after another - because, Mr. Gunslinger, this fiasco in the Middle East ain't over, not by a long shot. Stop the terrorism, Mr. Bush: take yourself and your cronies out of the equation - but bring our people home before you do.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jeff — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:07:49 GMT

Oh good, you got the right wing nuts riled up.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Astrochronic — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:18:13 GMT

Pei Chuan Koay asked: "Q: Why did Bush I stop short of taking over Baghdad after Schwartzkopf and our troops routed the Iraqi republican forces during the first Gulf War? A: Because he heeded the wise counsel that toppling Saddam Hussein would pit Shiites and Sunnis against each other triggering a civil war. Bush II did not and now we have an "insurgency."" Good question, bad answer. He did not because it was part of the cease fire agreement. It was international politics and Bush senior made a mistake that Bush junior tried to fix. Unfortunately the situation over the past 12 years deteriorated severly and became the quagmire it is today because Bush senior did not follow through with ousting Saddamn then. Also it should be noted that if the bombing of the Golden Dome could have been prevented the sectarian violence would not be so severe today. In fact the situation would very likely be under control. Certainly Bush juniors' outlook was rather optimistic but that does not diminish the righteousness with which we decided to remove Saddam from power. 1:To enforce U.N. resolutions that he blantantly violated many times. 2:To liberate the Iraqi people and bring liberty and democracy to a region that through subjigation was breeding the terrorist mindset. 3:To establish a west freindly democracy centrally located in the region. Its all very simple and straight forward. "Q: Why have the community of nations and the Muslim world (most of whom are NOT Arab, by the way) not question our continued engagement with Afghanistan? A: Because Afghanistan was the site of an al-Qaeda base and training camp and Osama bin-Laden was said to have fled there after 9/11 bombing of NYC and DC." True. But if some people beleive we are in Iraq because of oil should not the same logic apply as to why there is little objection to why we are in Afaganistan? Of course the oil argument is baseless but certainly oil plays a factor as it is a rather integral commodity and any interuption to its flow can destabilize the WORLD economy not just ours. Not to mention its the oil revenues that bring power to these radical regimes. "Q: Ask the Vice President how much capital gains and dividends he declared on his 2000, 2003 and 2006 tax statements from a company he's had a long-time affiliation with and, until was a major contractor in this war on terror. Assignment: The generals would tell you to "follow the money" and see who stood to profit most from this - whether we win or not." This seems to be a pointless presumption. Cheneys familiarity with Haliburton simply allowed for a clear understanding of thier role and expectations. If Cheney himself was profiting from it there would indeed be a rather incriminating money trail. As yet there is not and I find it hard to imagine a man that has reached his status would jeopardise his name and the faith of his country for such ill-gotten gains. I guess I believe humanity is more good than evil. Call my an idealist. This is real life not some dark "Star Wars" style sinister conspiracy. Its no surprise that the people who believe this sort of thing are the same ones with thier heads in the sand regarding the radical muslim terrorism threats to world security. Out of touch with reality and obstinantly devoted to thier delusions. Sounds like the sort of thing the far left says about the religious right. I guess that's ironic.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

J.M.PRITCHARD — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:43:24 GMT

MY BOY IS OVER THERE IN IRAQ SO ALL OF US DON'T HAVE TO FIGHT OVER HERE!!!!!!!!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

j.hill — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:48:29 GMT

desiree in washington and all the other ashamed people. Go live in some other country like maybe Iraq if you are so ashamed to be american.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

R. Los Angeles, Ca — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:01:07 GMT

Why aren't the citizens armed? This situation reminds me of the old westerns where even women knew how to fire a shotgun at the bad guys.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Triston, Laurel, MD — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:02:03 GMT

Their is no easy solution to this problem. It seems like everyone is ignoring the base of this problem. We should have never been there in the 1st place. When did we become the police of the world. Take care of home before you jump onto someone elses problems. The people in that area lived the way they live for as long as anyone knows. They are not gonna change to our lifestyle within the foreseeable future. Point blank our Gov't made a mistake, and now their people and our troops are the ones being punished.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Sorry to be here — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:03:10 GMT

More lip flaping left to right swinging finger pointing liberals will not make all our problems go away, we have a lying President, we will all go down with him. Gotta love democracy....... enjoy the future....

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

arias, r., NY, NY — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:17:03 GMT

to all of those who criticize the content of this blog, please head off to iraq and see how comfortable you are there. it's very easy to proclaim how brave and freedom loving you are when comfortably living in this country. why don't the supporters of the war and those who think we are doing the iraqis a favor go and fight for your principles and get a first hand account of what war is like. then maybe you or your children can die as heroes for the benefit of those corporations involved in "reconstruction" of the country. stop sending the the working man and his children to fight the battles of rich men. in our present administration there are no vets, but these men see no problem in sending the working class youth of our nation to war. as Mr. Ferguson Sr. post states, why don't our politicians send their kids?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

JV, Maryland — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 18:26:35 GMT

To Kathy Wauwatosa, WI - if you are truly interested in reading some of the success stories in Iraq, you can start with this link; http://www.usaid.gov/iraq/ As for why the success stories are not published by the media - the happy stories don't sell to the general population as well as the blood and guts stories, the stories about how we've screwed up again. Sad, because the success stories are so much better.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Opa Tempe, AZ — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 19:00:09 GMT

We started this obscenity but we are not the ones doing this to the Iraqi's Bush the First was right in leaving sleeping dogs alone because that's what they are, a bunch of dogs killing each other. If they would just stop killing each other they could have a beautiful country with plenty of resources for each citizen to have a comfortable living. Instead they go around wiping each other out. Having said that, I have to go back to my original statement: We started it! Someday, those that were responsible for this atrocity will have to stand before their Maker and we can only hope that God will show mercy on them, they do not deserve it!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Amy DeVan, Denver, Colorado — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 19:10:34 GMT

To me, the true tragedy of this situation is that many of us seem to be content with the fact that Iraq under U.S. occupation is, at least, not as bad as Iraq under Saddam. When did that become our benchmark for success? We invaded a sovereign nation promising its people a better life as a result and the reality is that we have not, or cannot, deliver. Attacking reporters for revealing the feelings of Iraqis who face daily violence from often unknown forces, while we sit safely in the United States, is inappropriate. While everyone is entitled to their opinions, the point of the First Amendment is to protect free speech, not just speech that the majority, or the vocal minority, agrees with. Reasoned, and balanced, debate is necessary for us to decide what the best course in Iraq truly is.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Lani, Seattle, Wa — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 19:38:52 GMT

Someone else benefits more from what is happening in Iraq than either Bush, al Qaida, or the various warring factions. That is why neither the US or the Iraqis can solve the problem because the ruler of this world does not want it to be solved. Only his removal will bring true peace. This is just one more example of man dominating man to his own injury. (1 John 5:19; Ecc 8:9)

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Akber A. Kassam, New-York City, New York. — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 19:45:24 GMT

Americans are not happy with our war in Iraq, there was no reson why president Bush invaded Iraq. Tens of thosands innocent Iraqis has being sacrificed for the selfish and thirsts motives of president Bush. and none of them had anything to do with that terrorist atrocity. So the sussuspicion grows among Mulims and among the International communities that all this is not really about 9/11 at all. Besides that 9/11 attacks were all from Saudi Arabia, President Bush should have invaded Saudi Arabia instead of Iraq. Taliban of Afghanistan are advancing forward to takeover the country. President Bush did not pay any attention towards Afghanistan which is the main hub of Osama bin Laden and his terrorist group. I support Tony Blair of Britain, who is pulling out his troops from Iraq, I think President Bush also to do that, bring our troops back home sooner then later and accept reality and fact that we have lost this war in Iraq.!!!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Bohdan Szejner, Kraków, Poland — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 20:19:19 GMT

I hear whinning and incriminations, but no real solutions. Iraq had a ruthless dictator who gased 100,000 Kurdish women and children. But there are some Americans who are still apologetic about Saddam. Saddam is history! Pray for him! Iraq canot survive without a dictator, this is true. But dictators are not always handy, and the suffering must stop. What the solution? Give the Sunnis their state, Shiites, theirs, and the Kurds theirs! Let Iraq become a U.S. Protectorate, like Porto Rico, for 50 years. Seek support of the U.N. for this move. This will create new stability overnight! Under the Protection of the U.S. each of the three autonomous zones will own their oil, and will begin to learn democracy and prosper. Don't expect them to learn democracy over night! Help them!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Janee Taylor — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 20:25:06 GMT

Thank God most Americans have come to their senses. I fear for our country because of the 35% that are still behind this president and his war, in spite of all the lies that have been revealed...they just wave the flag & carry the Bible and refuse to be confused by facts because their minds are already made up. This 35% also impeached our last president with 65% of the rest of us begging Congress not to...this minority is dangerous because it is loud and obnoxious and together with their talk show hosts, twist and filter the facts so completely they live in their own fantasy world. The rest of us care about truth and are embarrased by this president whom the world perceives as dumb and dangerous and ignorant and arrogant. The American people deserve so much better.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

chris — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 20:58:09 GMT

Yes,Bush orders the car bombings,before we went into Iraq there was peace in the middle east. 911 was Americas fault.Saddam was a better man than our President.Bush is worse than Hitler.USA sucks, NBC& CNN are always right.The world is coming to an end because Bush is president. Bush went to war because he wanted a new hobbie,enough is enough already.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

A. Arnold, Birmingham, AL — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 21:40:35 GMT

T. Hall, you have grossly exaggerated Saddam's place among 20th Centuries Mass Murders. Here is a comparison of the Top 20 Mass Murders of the last century.... Mao Ze-Dong (China, 1958-61 and 1966-69) 49,000,000 ("great leap forward" and "cultural revolution") Jozef Stalin (USSR, 1934-39) 13,000,000 (the purges) Adolf Hitler (Germany, 1939-1945) 12,000,000 (concentration camps and civilians WWII) Hideki Tojo (Japan, 1941-44) 5,000,000 (civilians WWII) Pol Pot (Cambodia, 1975-79) 1,700,000 Kim Il Sung (North Korea, 1948-94) 1.6 million (purges and concentration camps) Menghistu (Ethiopia, 1975-78) 1,500,000 Ismail Enver (Turkey, 1915) 1,200,000 Armenians Yakubu Gowon (Biafra, 1967-1970) 1,000,000 Leonid Brezhnev (Afghanistan, 1979-1982) 900,000 Jean Kambanda (Rwanda, 1994) 800,000 Suharto (East Timor, West Papua, Communists, 1966-98) 800,000 Saddam Hussein (Iran 1980-1990 and Kurdistan 1987-88) 600,000 Yahya Khan (Pakistan, 1971) vs Bangladesh 500,000 Fumimaro Konoe (Japan, 1937-39) 500,000 (Chinese civilians) Savimbi (Angola, 1975-2002) 400,000 Mullah Omar - Taliban (Afghanistan, 1986-2001) 400,000 Idi Amin (Uganda, 1969-1979) 300,000 Yahya Khan (Bangladesh, 1970-1971) 300,000 Benito Mussolini (Ethiopia, 1936; Yugoslavia, WWII) 300,000

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Dave, New York, NY — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 22:11:07 GMT

I know he's the President and therefore the face of this war. But the focus on Bush is missplaced. The cadre of neoconservatives (Cheney, Libby, Rumsfeld, Feith, Wolfowitz, the Kagans, Perle) has developed and, through Bush's two terms, executed their strategy of American hegemony - focusing first on the Middle East, with its unstable governments and rich resources. This is not some secret underground conspiracy. These people have been involved in the American political system for decades, their vision has coalesced around the environment created by 9/11, and their proxy (Bush), wittingly or unwittingly, has served his purpose. While it may not seem like it, there has been a very detailed gameplan in place and it continues to be carried out (permanent bases in Iraq, an increasing focus on Iran). Unfortunately for these people, they failed terribly in the first phase of this plan by not securing Iraq. The rest is chaos.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Jim in VA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:57:01 GMT

I found this blog amazingly simplistic. As someone who's actually been to Iraq, I was often taken aback at how what I saw reported and what on the ground I thought to actually be the case were different. There were a lot of good things going in Iraq then, and probably now as well. I find it hard listening to people who insist the President "lied" his way into war. I believe the President may have been mistaken in his beliefs, but he didn't "lie". Too many people in this country see the President as their enemy. He's not; you may not agree with him on things, and he may well be mistaken on some important things, but in the struggle between freedom and fascism, he's one of the good guys. Be careful about becoming so utterly blinded by your hatred of the man that it skews your judgment. By the way, where was the "national interest" you're so concerned about in Kosovo? Or in Sudan, where many on the left want to send troops (and maybe rightfully so)? Or when President Clinton bombed Iraq? Why were those okay? Just a thought.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

A Bridges Austin, TX — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 01:15:33 GMT

I think there are a few people out there missing the point. Shiites and Sunnis and Kurds are locked in a bloody civil war. Over here, liberals and conservatives dismiss each other with these labels instead of bothering to listen to each other's viewpoints. Sure, we're probably not going to have a civil war anytime soon, but how can we shake our heads and their inability to get along and live together when we're so ready to turn on each other? I wish everyone over here could be allowed to have their beliefs without being automatically attacked. I wish instead if all the vitriol, we could sit down and listen to each other and disagree with each other, but only after we've heard what the other person has to say and see it from their point of view. I know all that probably sounds like naive hippie bulls%$#, but think about it before you dismiss it outright. Before you label someone as a pinko liberal commie, try to listen to them and see if you can see where they're coming from. Before you dismiss someone as a neocon redneck Jesus freak, try to see their point of view. And then go right on ahead and disagree with it, but think about why you disagree and explain it instead of just hurling insults. If we are going to spread "democracy," we should try and be a good example of what one should look like. And yeah, all that's idealistic, and I will not apologize for that. Idealism is good--we could use a lot more of it.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Chris, Rochester NY — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 01:37:15 GMT

Going to Iraq is like Dad kicking butt when the kids are too wild. Two birds with one stone deal, ala Saddam/Terrorists. Should we have gone in when we did - Nope. Were we eventually going to have to go - Yup. Did Iraq violate all UN sanctions imposed - Yup. Did Iraq have & use WMD in the past - Yup. Would they have done so again - Yup. This was/is a pay-me-now/pay-me-later scenario. It is absurd to assume terrorist orgs would-not/are-not spawning. The surge will have a chance to secure Bagdad then we will pull back & out either way. Then we wait for some European country(s) to get smacked and beg for our help. Then we go back, unless it is France calling, then we hang up the phone…

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

R Flannery, Tacoma, WA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 01:51:04 GMT

People talk about the deaths in Iraq and call Saddam a tyrant, murderer, etc...We might want to look not too far back in our history to see what we did to the American indian tribes. Wonder what would have happened if the world had stepped in to stop that

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Can'twaitfor2008, Jacksonville, FL — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 02:07:08 GMT

Unfortunately, in this case, it would be better to have a very strong ruler - maybe even a dictator - run the country. Remember that we are talking about several TRIBES of people who were united under a dictator, they did not willingly decide to coexist in the same country. Now there is no leadership and the idea that these tribal people are going to spontaneously decide to get along is ridiculous. The same thing happened in the former Yugoslavia; when the dictator fell (or in that case, died), any unifying force died with them. The USA's invasion of this country was not and is not motivated by any desire to "free" any group of people. It's about oil. Wake up. By the way, for those of you who really believe that "George W Bush is a good man," take a close look at what he and his administration have done. They have lied to the American people over and over again. They have spent our hard-earned tax dollars on a war that no one supports anymore - and they want more! Ask yourselves why. Do you really believe it's some altruistic need to help the poor oppressed people of Iraq?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

William Gould — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 02:23:24 GMT

Nobody gets out of here dead. You pay,in coming lives for what you do in this life "good or bad". That's Buddhism

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Arby, Boston MA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 02:24:35 GMT

How does one establish a democractic government anywhere when the would-be citizens of that government are not ready to fight and die for it? What if we, as British citizens in 1774, were too busy killing each other over differences of religion and never sought to establish certain basic freedoms, construct a viable form of government, and declare our independence? I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW ANY SOCIETY CAN FORCE DEMOCRACY ON ANOTHER SOCIETY OR NATION-STATE. It's really that simple - if the would-be citizens of Iraq aren't willing to band together and die for their own democratic freedoms, than why would any rational nation send its citizens to force or coerce them into doing so? Doesn't that violate the basic tenets of representative or liberal democracy to begin with? As far as President Bush - I think the most horrible thing that someone can say about a leader is that they are "intelluctually lazy" or "not intellectually curious". Several ex-confidants have described Bush in this way. Someone find me a historian who ranks an intellectually lazy ex-president in the top 15 and I'll change my opinion.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Erik, Richmond, VA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 02:26:53 GMT

Reading this unbelievably uneducated, slanted, anti-American article makes me think: Just how many lives could we have saved if only we would have let Hitler have everything he wanted! After all, the Allied invasion of continental Europe in 1944 caused the violence and casualties of the war to increase (on both sides), it caused untold thousands of civilian deaths, and it brought the utter destruction of billions of dollars in infrastructure, and I won't even mention how much money was made by big American corporations such as GM & General Electric in the prosecution of the war...companies that were as close (if not closer) to the top tier of the American power structure of the time. Maybe we should have done in the 1940's what the gutless cubicle monkeys trying to type Shakespeare (a better approximation of their job description than 'journalist') want us to do today: Come home, put on a clean diaper, and wring our hands over what 'white guilt'-ridden, murderer-oppressor, worthless bastards we Americans are for doing the right thing instead of the easy thing. Hitler himself couldn't have wished for anything more...at least that would have solved the 'Jewish Question' decades before the Islamic Fascists decided to take up the swastika and try to finish the job.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Ron B. Seattle, WA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 02:47:16 GMT

Jane, Have you no shame at all with your politically twisted bias? How can anyone believe a word you say now when you were completely opposite when saddam & family were killing citizens off by the MILLIONS! Those "dreams" your "talented" writer speaks of were in reality the daily lives of the Kurds prior to the war! The only "talent" demonstrated here is the ability to make people believe there is nothing good happening in the country. My friends serving in Iraq paint quite a different picture in the letters they send me! Just like last night's headline stating the British are PULLING OUT of Iraq - NO only troop reductions of about 25% BECAUSE OUTSIDE THE GREEN ZONE THINGS ARE GETTING MUCH BETTER! Stop spreading your fertilizer to the uninformed and start reporting the actual facts! This is a perfect example of why NBC is last in the ratings, no one believes you're credible!!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

K.Cummings,SLC Ut — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:25:38 GMT

Remember 9-11?remember the bombings of ships and night clubs?remember the first time they tryed to bomb the twin towers? DOES ANY BODY REMEMBER WHO WAS BEHIND ALL OF THAT?it wasnt saddam hussan,,,,,,,,,REMEMBER A GUY BY THE NAME OF USAMA BIN LADEN?what happened to getting the bad guy that blew up our towers,and started all of this mess?

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Henry Rollins — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:33:00 GMT

I have Served in Iraq for two tours. Iraq is much better off without Saddam running the show and this is a military man's view. Freedom isn't paid for by money or by asking for it nicely, it comes through struggle and blood. I don't think people realize it but Iraq will be free, but not for a while

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Craig Charleston, SC — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:35:00 GMT

Focus the military forces on one city at a time, build walls around these select cities, with only one way in or out, and control who leaves and who enters. It's not an answer that will resolve the conflict, but I think it would help control the un'capitalist' masses.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Ron, Tri-Cities, Wa — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:40:11 GMT

Steve, Louisville, KY, so what you are saying is that not very many Iraqi civilians have died. Hmmmm! Based on the fact that you did not see and new graves. Iraq is approx 220 square miles. I guess the dead bodies we see on the news are faking it. You are in as much denial as the President is regarding this war. There are thousands of dead Iraqi's with their blood on our hands.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Cesar, Los Angeles — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:43:29 GMT

Although I am against the war for moral purposes, I would like to share one observation. The war in Iraq has actually protected America since 2003. Many terrorists around the Middle-East have flocked to Iraq to fight Americans on their own turf instead of coming to America and repeating 9-11. The so called "insurgents" of Iraq could have been blowing up targets in America if we hadn't created a local war.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

dennise , coatesville, pa — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 03:44:30 GMT

I read an article in which a Brig. Gen. stated that the Iraqis are fighting dirty with chlorine gas. duh. to this gen. and the american military this is a war. war is dirty and deadly. in order to win we must be willing to fight as dirty as required to win. otherwise go home. to many lives have already been lost, lets not let it be in vain. for the most powerful army in the world we are getting our butts kicked all over iraq.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

David Spurlock — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 04:14:38 GMT

it never ceases to amaze me how liberals never cared about the millions saddam killed by sticking them in grinders, raping them in front of their families and killing them all, slowly, but NOW suddenly the plight of Iraqis is horrible. Nice to know you libs cared.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

David S — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 04:24:56 GMT

To the people of Iraq, I humbly apologize for the killing of your people by the terrorists that our media empowers by their twisted views on human nature. Please forgive us if we leave, when the extremists start torturing you and murdering you for having differing religious views.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

John, Redding, Calif. — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 05:47:45 GMT

It is very sad that the American people by and large are totally ignorant of the true costs of Bush's War on the Iraqi people. Millions displaced, homeless., hundreds of thousands slaughtered in secterian violence and by "The Coalition Partners", whose only interests are political and material.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Benjamin Franklin, Philidelphia, PA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 05:51:51 GMT

All human situations have their inconveniences. We feel those of the present but neither see nor feel those of the future; and hence we often make troublesome changes without amendment, and frequently for the worse.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Joseph E. O'Hanlon Jr Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 06:09:33 GMT

As a Vietnam COMBAT veteran of two tours that included TET,which we WON hands down,I SALUTE AND THANK EACH AND EVERY AMERICAN WHO ANSWERED THE CALL FOR FREEDOM IN IRAQ AND STOOD, AND ARE STANDING, IN THE BREACH!!! THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU FOR YOU HEROISM IN THE FACE OF ENEMY FIRE AND LIBERAL UNDERMINING AND DIMINISHING ALL YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR ALL PEOPLES, NOT JUST IN IRAQ!!! We Vietnam veterans were also undermined by the great Walter Krankenheit (means disease in German and he truly was a lethal one for freedom in Vietnam) from CBS, the beginning of undermining OUR soldiers' brave sacrifices for the freedom of others. This DISEASE is ONCE AGAIN being brought out to destroy the morale of the American people and especially our soldiers, sailors, Marines and airmen. For the individual who wrote "as far as I can see" in Vietnam, all appears to be roses. From what he sees is what the LIBERALs ALLOW him to see. I wonder if he can see just how absolutely wonderful the Iranian people are after JIMMY CARTER, THE Ipana salesman, stabbed the Shah in the back and ushered in the Ayatola. They got a long and bloody war with nut ball, Saddam, who didn't mind slaughtering his own people in battle or in their homes. As for the individual who began by stating that Saddam was a tyrant BUT America has somehow killed more people than he did. How many of his soldiers did he court marshal for raping or killing civilians? HHmmmm? And then there is the happy land of South Africa where the mean white people who built the country from nothing have largely left and the country is all but belly - up. Say, do the communists who "won" still "neckless" those people who disagree with them? Why hasn't Dan the man gone back to gush all over them like he did when they thugs came into power? Too dangerous for him? For those who really are self deceivers, rent the movie "Independence Day". Pay careful note to the short "conversation" between the actor president and the captured alien when the president asks the alien what can the people of earth do in order for peace? The alien ws very to the point when it said (via telepathy, Gee. We could have learn so much from their advanced civilization). To quote the alien: DIE! Sound familiar? Want to make peace with these madmen AND women. Send Hilery, Schumer (he will offer to disarm all of us, except for the Israelis), Kennedy (who could give these dessert camel jockies swimming lessons after they over-run America), the the usual gang of idiots. And don't forget "Blinky" Pelosi along with her California doppel twins of Boxer and Feingold, who will be a REAL hit with all those nasty Islamic MEN!!! And as for the moron who wrote that our troops claim to have build news schools, water, sewage and power plants but it MUST be all LIES because we NEVER SEE ANY PICTURES, time for you to put your head back into the sand. Americans would ALL like to SEE what our troops have done but YOUR Liberal Media refuses to print any oictures or any stories about our medical clinics, etc., etc., because THE LIBERALS ALL WANT US TO LIVE. And for them to dare complain that IF THEY DISAGREE, that doesn't make them anti-American and TRAITORS!!! YES, shamefully, IT DOES!!! YOU and all of them WANT us to lose. My eldest son, an Army captain, is about to leave home for his SECOND tour. And he VOLUNTEERED, just as I did 40 years ago in Vietnam, because he belives he AND all the others of our brave military members also believe. I went back to Vietnam optimistic that we could handily defeat the Viet Cong after TET. Shortly after I arrived in Vietnam, JOHNSON STOPPED THE BOMBING!!! Congressman "tears" Murtha must have forgotten that since he is leading the charge to do a parallel move on MY SON and OUR MILITARY by stopping the funds!!! Just like Lyndon signaled to the Commies that if they held out alittle longer, they would be able to rebuild (which took them TWO years) and they would win, Polusi, Schumer, Kennedy, Murtha, and, of course, Baldwin, Strisand, Astor, and the usual crowd of Hollywood morons who are so skilled in global geo-politics are gleefully doing the same thing. Should you get your wish and our troops are pulled out before Iraq can fulfill its role as the only Muslim country smack in the middle of the Mid East which is friendly to America, and their psychos start WITHIN our borders, WHO will come to OUR assistance as we have done in two world wars and numerous smaller ones AND defested the Communists Cold WAR??? Hmmmm? Who? Strisand? Schumer? Pelosi? Kennedy? France? Germany? England? Your mother? YOU??? My family has served American Freedom in EVERY WAR and CONFLICT since the War of 1812. Somehow, if those wonderful Arabs you so love destroy America, I don't think my family will be available. We will have all be killed in battle to save Freedom in America. It would be nice if people like you don't vote to cut off our ammunition for this last battle.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Michael, Indonesia — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 06:50:02 GMT

ARE AMERICANS SMARTER THAN IRAQI'S? Look at the praise Tony Blair is receiving from the Iraqi's for reducing the number of Brits in Iraq?? They clearly want to be left alone and we, as Americans, should have enough sense to let them govern themselves. They are NO LESS capable of governing themselves than we are! As long as energy hungry AMERICA has vested interest in the region, there will be no peace in the middle east. Let's boycott crude oil as a source of energy and go green - buy bio-ethanol / methanol today!

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Mario, residing in UAE — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 07:24:03 GMT

You know something, yu guys are really funny, you are talking about a country that is actually fighting and killing each other........{(and the irony is you are fighting each other verbally too;-)} It is IRAQI SHIITES and IRAQI SUNNIS that are killing each other, and u guys are blaming BUSH??? What, as the president of a threatened country, would YOU DO, to stave off terrorist fundamentalists?????????? See what is the actual root cause of their radicalism and its simply hate, greed and more power. Who, which people die more everyday in Iraq? In India where I come from, all faiths live side by side, and i am talking abt middleclass people, but the message of hate that these firebrand mullahs preach is influencing more and more people by the day. Can you do something abt that, like spreading knowledge abt these things, connecting and bonding with people instead of 'judging' everyone from the comfort of your chairs in America????????

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

los angeles — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 07:31:17 GMT

would have been a great read had it not been so biased. DONT BE SWAYED by biased articles such as these.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

Harith — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 09:05:37 GMT

I am an Iraqi and still live in this country.I read this topic not to know about the bad point into which Iraq has deteriorated , but to know more about the American impressions. I do not like to compare between our moment and Saddam's period , it is like choosing between two evils , each worst than the other. The problem would not ended by insulting Bush's decision to invade Iraq, but by doing the right things now. Alqaeda is a strange host here and it came with the Americans , perhaps by their approval.If the Americans leave,they should take all the evils they brought here , particularly Alqaeda.This will be the beginning to remove those viruses and give Iraqies a chance to rehabitate their country.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:12:43 GMT

We wring our hands and say "oh those poor people". We free ourselves from responsibility and say "the administration lied to us". As long as we do nothing, we will stay as helpless to our own officials as the Iraqi's themselves are to the insurgents - only we won't be the ones who live with fear and death. Perhaps that's why we deny the fact that we are responsible. It was our representatives who gave the administration the "freedom" to go to war and still we did nothing about it. This country used to be made of firmer stuff. The people of this country once stood for something more than instant gratification and becoming fat.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

BARRY, UNION S.C. — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 13:41:56 GMT

BEFORE LONG OUR GREAT NATION WILL BE FIGHTING THIS WAR ALONE. I KNOW THAT WE JUST CAN NOT JUST PULL ALL FORCES OUT AT ONE TIME. I THINK NOW OUR GOVERNMENT ARE FIGHTING WITH EACH OTHER ON HOW MANY TROOPS WE NEED TO HAVE THERE. PLEASE JUST LET OUR YOUNG MEN DO THEIR JOBS AND COME HOME SOON.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

John Thomas, Denver, CO — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 14:41:30 GMT

All this whining about how terrible it is for the Iraqi's. This is Arab on Arab violence, and they themselves are responsible for it. To prove my point, please examine how the Kurds are doing. They are building a nation. They are productive and free. This alone is worth everything that has happened. Please remember, before we invaded, Arabs killed Kurds to the extent of genocide. Now Arabs aren't free to kill Kurds anymore. If Arabs want to kill each other, by all means, we should assist them in their efforts.

Iraq: Where the living envy the dead

helen apple — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 07:33:08 GMT

i think it is very important to remember how psychotic such family members can be harry.
terrorized parentsplace rob