Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

bill greaves — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:48:21 GMT

Duh, the biggest problem in Iraq is America.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Rev. Beverly Webb — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:50:17 GMT

no the biggest problem is Muqtada al-Sadr, he needs to get on with a program that is best for his people and the country. All he is doing is keeping things stirred up and killing civilans.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

leslie plumerville ar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:55:49 GMT

You asked a question. Yes, and No. Iran is backing militias for a reason. America is backing al-Maliki and the awful mess he made of this when he let Badr (from Iran) start this, way back in - 03, I think it was. Now Sadr is talking to Iran and the al-Maliki govt. and Badr has graduated to kingpin, so I think. America is still involved for a reason; and it doesn't make geopolitical sense any more. al-Maliki says Iraq wants America out, they can handle their own stuff; and America needs to take responsibility for its actions. I agree. America needs to let al-Maliki figure out for himself whether he can. If he can't, I guarantee you that priest and his seminary students started something that will. No matter what happens to the priest and students. And America needs to take responsibility for propping up this government; and be respectful of herself; because it is apparent to me that very few governments over there have the adequate respect for us. I'm not blaming anyone for that. That will get us NO Where. What we need to do is leave. And we need to do it now. And the Iraq government will facilitate that, according to al-Maliki. Iran and Sadr and al-Maliki will work out their things; and Badr will have to come in line with the rest of them or quit. Sadr's movement, not Sadr himself, will make sure of that. And by the way, that's Badr's mistake. He mistook power for something that people own; and thought that destroying the person destroyed the power. That's America's very honest mistake: not judging the fruits of the spirit of the thing when it came to Badr's intentions. So let's get out, already. It's time.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Emil Rasor — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:55:55 GMT

The US is the problem. We need to talk with Iran, move our Navy back home, get our troops out, apologize, help re-build the country and work with all states that want to help Iraq. Bush made a terrible mistake. Each US citizen should have to pay for the war now and stop charging it. If we received a weekly bill, the war would end soon.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jeff Smail, Steelville, MO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:06 GMT

The U.S. is currently the biggest problem in Iraq, as it has been for the past 5 years. The lies that led us to our current involvement have had to be legitimized with yet more lies throughout the years. It is impossible to know the truth or to believe any report from any source about what is actually going on in Iraq these days. As people like John McCaine have pointed out, we can't afford to lose in Iraq. The truth is more likely that we can't afford to "win", whatever that may mean. At $2 billion per week, over 4,000 soldiers killed and close to 30,000 soldiers crippled for life, we are no closer to resolving any problems than we were 5 years ago; we've simply found new reasons to maintain a standing army in the region forever. As a U.S. Army veteran I can only ask the same question that an overwhelming majority of Americans are also asking - When will this idiotic debacle end? The answer - it never will, because it has nothing to do with restoring Iraq to a stable nation, and much more to do with plundering the U.S. treasury of taxpayer $ in a new "cold war" that will last much longer than 50 years; and perhaps, in the future, of controlling the Iraqi oil supply to bolster our own or our allies needs for this increasingly important (and dwindling) resource.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jimmy, in the Buckeye State! — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:05:37 GMT

What kind of IDIOT asks if Iran is the problem in Iraq?

Why is it the general public has to remind this so-called NEWS WRITER what happened in Iraq?

Iran did NOT invade Iraq: the United States DID invade Iraq, and based the justification of false and invented evidence. I'll take it one step further: if any prosecutor did the same thing, the PROSECUTOR would have faced criminal charges! Not so with the so-called 'leadership' of the United States. The George W. Bush administration et al do as they please, and have no thought for who their boss is: WE, THE PEOPLE tell the leadership what to do, the leadership does NOT tell it's citizens what to do. Can anyone think of a name for any government that tells it's people what to do? Needless to say, it is no longer a Republic!

BAGHDAD=BABYLON=CONFUSION. Always has, Always will.

I'd venture to say that all the dead people the Iraq debacle has caused could have been prevented if the UNITED STATES hadn't invaded Iraq under false pretenses and based on phony evidence.

To George W. Bush and his administration:
Isaiah 59 verse 3:
"For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness."
Romans 14 verse 12:
"So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God."

Have you no shame, Mr. President?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Kim Allen — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:06:28 GMT

Iran is not the biggest problem. The bush administration is the biggest problem and just gets getting bigger.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ceasar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:09:01 GMT

More and more it sounds like it is Iran we should be at war with. If Iran is backing Iraqi Malitia groups then they should be warned to stop immediatly or suffer the consequences.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

JAIME SERVINO SAN JUAN,PR — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:09:31 GMT

I FEEL THAT MR. BUSH MADE TTHE BIGGEST MISTAKE OF HIS ADMINISTRATION AND THAT IS TO ESCALATE THE WAR AGAINST FANATICAL RELIGIOUS PEOPLE THAT THEIR MAIN REASON TO LIVE, IS TO DIE. ALL THAT SPENT MONEY ON THE WAR,HOW SAD. MARINES ARE DYING LIKE FLIES EVERY DAYS. OUR MOTTO SHOULD BE;DEFEND AMERICA. THE WAR SHOULD STOP RIGHT NOW. AMEN.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jeff Rogers — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:09:37 GMT

How many times must this truism be stated (and how many times ignored by the current US administration and military): The fundamental problem in Iraq is political, not military. Iraqi history is rife with religious, tribal and clan rivalries that stretch back many centuries. Any semblance of democracy in Iraq must be underpinned by a whole spectrum of values including tolerance and the rule of law. Iraqi factions do not observe those basic values. Iraqi history has not given them any substantial democratic experience. Thus the current conflict cannot be resolved by military action. Period.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jimmy, in the Buckeye State! — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:12:06 GMT

If ANYONE wants to know why there are wars on the Earth continually as well as how to prevent them entirely, here it is in one simple verse.

II Chronicles 16 verse 9:
"For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars."

BAGHDAD=BABYLON=CONFUSION. Always has, Always will.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dorothy R, Charleston, SC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:17:45 GMT

The problem in Iraq is not Iran. US officals keep suggesting Iran is a problem because they have another agenda - they want to villify Iran to justify an air raid there before Bush leaves office. The Bush administration has been looking for any excuse to do this for the past year or two...The public can see this..and I think the transparency of this is the only thing that has kept the US from bombing Iran so far.

The rest of the world is not suggesting an air raid on Iran, and was very angry when they found that the US had "allowed" Israel to bomb Syria without sharing "intelligence".

It's an artificial flavor...just like starting the Iraq war to begin with...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

cole springfield ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:17:47 GMT

"I have been ordered by God to fight with people till they bear testimony to the fact that there is no God but Allah and that Mohammed is his messenger, and that they establish prayer and pay Zakat (money). If they do it, their blood and their property are safe from me" (see Bukhari Vol. I, p. 13).

Syria, Jordan, Palestine (Jerusalem), Egypt, Libya, Iraq, Iran. These countries have fighting each other in the name of Islam for hundreds of years. Are we so ignorant as to believe we can solve this problem in five, ten or even twenty years from now.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mike — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:18:56 GMT

I personally believe that the biggest problem in Iraq is us. No matter how much a country may hate their own government, when a foreign military force is in your own backyard, you fight them. Thats a personal attack on you when another military is killing your own folks on your land. If Mexico believed that the u.s government was not good and they invaded us, I would be fighting them till they left or I died. This is going to be a losing battle just like the one with Israel and the palestines. That is my personal opinion.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John McCool, West Fork, Arkansas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:22:22 GMT

It makes no differance what "the flavor of the month" is. What matters is the reality of the sitiuation and the task at hand. And reality is that Iran IS training and supplying anti-american fighters. Fighters whos job is to kill U.S. soldiers. We did not bring the war to Iran. Iran came to us and said "we want to play too" Well then, lets play...and drop some bombs on Iran!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John Fulbright, Beaumont, TX — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:22:36 GMT

We need to defeat the Iranians as soon as possible. A tactical nuclear first strike would send a strong message to their leadership and get their attention. Once we do this, we need to secure change by demanding they stand down their nuclear aramaments program. If they don't, we need to hit them with an annhilating comprehensive nuclear attack to take them out within days not weeks or months.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Richard Snellville Ga — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:24:17 GMT

Iran, Hates us and Isreal as well as anyone who stands for freedom from their supposed religion. If Islam were the truth then why is their so much hatred and fighting? Would not a God as well as a religion desire Peace? I am sick of people turning a deaf ear to what is really going on in the world. Read your Bible! It is their and foretold what is coming and it is not pretty. Iran is a Problem in Iraq snd they back Hammas. So someone tell me please why anyone would think terrorism is in anyones best interest anywhere in the world. We fight a different war these days and if Iran gets Nukes,well one might as well see the end coming. They have openly stated Isreal should be wiped off the map but are stupid to think my God is going to allow them to do that. Isreal is God's Country. Most people do not know that Iraq is Ancient Babylon and where the Garden of Eden wa located. Read your Bible Folks it is all there and believe me we are headed for a one world Government that the Bilderburgers want,Look them up on the net. They are the richest people on the planet and they run the world. The illuminate and Tri-laterals are all linked to the Bilderberger Group. People please do your homework and see what the truth is that is really going on around us.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve, Westminster, CO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:24:19 GMT

This idea that Iran is the problem is complete garbage. As you point out, the enemies list changes year to year, but it is always someone else's fault. It's the U.S. occupation - period. The U.S. may be able to pay off one faction for a while, or someone else (like the Shiites) may find it in their own interests to lay low for a while, but the U.S. is not going to be successful in installing a puppet regime no matter who else they blame for Iraq's problems, and it's time to realize that.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Magdelena, NYC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:25:16 GMT

I would say that no, the US is the biggest problem in Iraq!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Danny Ruppert, Phoenix, Az — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:28:00 GMT

Flavor of the month, for sure. We are there to control Iraq's oil. Our government will never run out of excuses to justify our immoral, illegal, occupation.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mack, Houston, TX — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:29:05 GMT

I still wonder why enough isn't being done to stop Iran's influence in Iraq. And how much "hey we've found Iranian made weapons here in Iraq" proclamations until some serious action or retaliation is taken. Also why the U.S./coalition doesn't "back at ya" to Iran by helping groups within Iran that want to collapse that government. You'd think that by now being surrounded by two fledgling democracies that some of it would have rubbed off on Iran, but conservatives keep winning and the populace is doing nothing (no uprisings, etc.) Could be that it will take a much longer time than anticipated to see changes flow over to Iran.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bart Ramos. Chino Hills California — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:30:43 GMT

Our presence is the biggest threat in iraq. We are seen as outsider and no matter how good are intentions are it wont make a difference. We are just delaying the inevitable of full scale civil war. However if we pursued an agressive diplomatic effort with iran and other neiboring countries. We migh at least decreased the level of violence in the near future>

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

craig, schenectady, New York — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:31:57 GMT

this is an accurate blog, and it points out a well-known problem: Iran is arming militias in Iraq, and it is preventing the area from stabilizing (or at least it is one factor that is preventing it). there is a dangerous game of diplomacy here, however. we cannot, unfortunately, risk an armed conflict with Iran, even though we know that they are having a direct impact on the ability of anti-coalition militias to fight and continue the violence. the american people are war-weary, for one, and the amount of military power that Iran will be able to bring to bear on us will be far greater than what we faced in iraq in 2003. This would be a full-scale war, and while we have superior forces and armaments, our losses would be considerable, and the conflict would serve to destroy any and all security gains we have made in Iraq, as Iran would then openly and unabashedly incite shiite militias in Iraq to fight U.S. forces. we would then use the conflict as an excuse to egg on sunni militants to fight against the Irani-supported shiite militants in Iraq, effectively destroying any national reconciliation we have been working towards for te past 5 years. Those military officers are right: if Iran stopped fueling shiite militias, things would be alot better than they are now. Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do about it unless we want to start an open armed conflict with Iran, and consequently lose all security and national reconciliation gains we've made in Iraq thus far, effectively nullifying everything we've done to stabilize the country, and making the ultimate sacrifices of over 4,000 men and women, adn the considerable sacrifices of well over 25,000 wounded men and women, practically moot.

u.s. casualty numbers taken from http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/iraq_casualties.htm

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

BobbyFlay, Springfield, IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:33:05 GMT

We all know they are lying about this Iran/Iraq connection. Question is will they succeed in ignoring the will of the American people AGAIN...are we living under a dictatorship now? How many flat out BLATANT lies will this administration give us before people wake up. Iran is NOT A PROBLEM...stop trying to start wars with everyone.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

San Diego — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:35:12 GMT

Seems to me like the biggest problem in Iraq is the United States.

But then, that would be a simple, non convoluted answer which would require us to... *gasp* admit that we aren't the world's great savior after all and that we were actually wrong about something. That just won't do. We'd better just keep throwing money and lives at it for the next 30 years since we've apparently no humility left to act responsibly as a superpower anymore.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Nick B, Morristown, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:35:51 GMT

So here is the main questions surrounding this, where is the evidence? If there is eveidence that Iran is fighting the USA through Iraq, who has the smoking gun? And if it cema out tomorrow that we have proof, what can our military do about it? The answer: Nothing, keep being killed. The reason: George Bush and friends, stretching our military to the limit. We couldn't fight another war if we tried. Iran is more powerful now than ever, what happened to isolating Iran? Not on W's watch....

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

NOBODY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:38:47 GMT

not as long as 40+% of all insurgents come from Saudi. who just got 900 smart bombs to boot! Iran is only a problem cause DC says so! In the sight of the world we have done nothing but make one excuse after another, to try to find a reason to remove them from this planet by genocide, as John Hagee calls for and is joined by Mrs Clinton, so the answer is no the biggest detrament in the middle-east is not Iran, Iraq,Syria, or Egypt! It's ISREAL and the USA! To easy to see unless your eyes are wide shut!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Sho from New York City — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:39:03 GMT

What a joke- the biggest problem in Iraq is that it is being occupied by invading foreign forces. What arrogance that we think we have a right to protect our special interests in a region thousands of miles away- but Iran which shares a border with Iraq does not.

If you actually look at the situation in Basra- you'd know that the current puppet leader Al-Maliki has tried to oppress the iraqi people who protest against his rule- and tried to implement laws that make him very similar to Saddam Hussein. If Iran didn't exist there would still be problems in Iraq because the very nature of the operation is occupation- and people will resist.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Zayas, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:40:58 GMT

Look, the mess that is Iraq was also caused by those who voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004. I am happy with myself that I'd never voted for the Bush and Cheney team. The American people made a mistake in putting Bush into the highest office of the land, and I am certain that there are some who regret it, but now after eight years of damage caused by the repubs, you would agree, at least this year--most people are very eager to vote for Bozo the Clown as president!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Chipotle, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:42:49 GMT

IT IS --- Iran with Russia and China backing.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jim, San Jose, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:43:46 GMT

Does anyone else find it strange that the "enemy of the month" seems to be the same as the one the administration is touting as the next thing to fear?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Kat Young, Seattle, WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:45:03 GMT

The problem with the story about Iran supplying the Sadrists with weapons to attack the Iraq government is that Maliki is more closely allied to Iran than al Sadr. More likely, it's just another case of the Bushies deciding on an "enemy" and then blaming them for everything. You know things are getting bad in America when the most rational assumption about anything the Administration says is that it's a lie.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Vernie Doss Dalton, Ga — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:47:05 GMT

I think it is just a matter of time before we will have to hit Iran. They have been our worst enemy far longer than Iraq, Sadam Husein, or Bin Laden. If they ever get a nuclear weapon, they are crazy enough to use it just to see Israel destroyed. North Korea will not bother anyone as long as they aren't bothered-like any poisonous snake...accept the cotton mouth. That is what Iran is like. They hate everything and everyone that isn't like them.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ray Lotfi, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:47:13 GMT

The question is "If us can not control the borders with Mexico" why would anyone expect the bordered between Iraq & Iran be secured? Both of the 2 countries have conflict with U.S since U.S. was never invited there
You never hear this kind of questions in the news

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

raider64, Santa Rosa, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:47:16 GMT

So if the Shiites supported by Iran have a truce, and the Sunnis are being bought off with our money and weapons, and Al-Qaida is defeated - where is all the violence coming from? And more importantly, why does the MSM ignore the huge amounts of money, men, and material that are are in the hands of the Sunni insurgency due to the largess of our so-called allies in Saudi Arabia. If we shut off the Saudi tap, we would see real improvement in the security situation in Iraq. But I realize everyone would prefer to stay focused on Iran. After all, it's not like we'd ever drop a bomb on the Saudis, right?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tony, MO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:47:40 GMT

"The surge has become something sacred for the military in Iraq. It was a plan that worked. It has been entered into the annals of history – at least here – as a success, not to be questioned."

Isn't it interesting that you never hear NEWS LIKE THIS from the main stream (NBC, CBS, CNN) outlets? The war related news story today was about how more soldiers died... but not a word about their success.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ray Lotfi, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:47:48 GMT

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Doug Fingles, Warner Robins, GA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:49:33 GMT

Think of Iraq as a giant "Whack a Mole" game. Only, the moles representing different factions can/did appear in different holes simultaneously, sometimes alone and sometimes in concert with other factions. The U.S. has managed to "whack" most of the moles, leaving the Iranians as the last opposition group, however the lack of other opposition groups means the remaining moles can appear in lots of places, if the U.S. hasn't sealed up the hole (Such as Anbar Province). The good news is it's only one group left to deal with, the bad news is they're receiving funding, training, and logistics support from a safe haven called Iran. Until the U.S. can either shut down the cross border support, convince the Iranians it's not in their best interests, or destroy the safe haven(s), this will continue to go on.

Frankly, I think it's in Iran's best interest to lay low for a couple of years, let the U.S. interest dwindle or turn to a new fad, and then quietly resume their campaign to convert Iraq into an Islamic/Iranian puppet regime. It's what I'd do.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Akeem, Dearborn, MI — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:49:46 GMT

propaganda... Where is direct evidence of Iran being the problem? WHy doesnt MSNBC go back to spouting other "information" about the oh so important presidential race between big oil and big insurance.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mason, Akron, Ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:50:27 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq is the US. If we were not there we wouldn't be getting killed everyday. (47 troops in this month now dead.)

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

lcpl coffee columbia s.c. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:50:54 GMT

ever since the takeover and removal of the shaw of iran by ayatollah iran has been nothing but a source of evil and dictatorship it should have already been dealt with years ago so why wait now ?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Josh, Hershey, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:53:16 GMT

America is loosing this war. Sooner they get out they will remain intact otherwise it will be going down the Soviet way. to bankruptcy.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Burny — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:53:26 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq are the Americans. We are there because of lies handed to us by the Bush administration. WMD's? None. What happened to Bin Laden? Wasn't Al Quada or enemy?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dick Skiles Inveerness Florida — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:54:51 GMT

Iran is going to keep stoking the fire until they develop a situation where the U.S. will be forced to
take action against them. This would spread our troops too thin to be effective anywhere in the middle east. And I, am sure the Iranians are well aware of this. So they feel comfortable sticking thorns in us. Solutions I have not. Crazy world.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tony, Chicago, IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:55:39 GMT

Alqueda was something created, to justify the invasion. According to Greenspan we had to invade to secure the oil supplies.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bill Lazar — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:00:44 GMT

We should let them kill off each other . We have did all we can do to help them . Let them help them selves . We have lost & suffered to many of our bravest Military lets not lose another precious man or women. Most of these people hate America. We will find no Honor or appreciation from most of those who we are defending. America has become the laughing stock of the world and liberalisim is our Downfall.
America had better wake up because our foriegn friends aim to bury us !and our news media is helping the enemy to do just that.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

joe clark — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:03:02 GMT

It can be if you avoid addressing what needs to be negotiated. Nuclear power as apposed to nuclear weapons. If left unchecked or ignored, Iran can be one hell of a headache.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

fredanaya — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:06:00 GMT

Obviously it's the Iraqi people whom are their own worst enemy. Either they would rather prefer to be cowed by those allah believers who want to continue to suppress these people s basic human rights all in the name of allah. Iran is an issue but not the main issue here aand as far as the Revolutionary Guard goes hey remember the much vaunted "Republican Guard" that was the crowning jewel of the Iraqi army, they couldn't get out of their tanks and uniforms quick enough. It took what maybe to weeks to defeat their entire army. Now the urban warefare, something I think the Pentagon and the ground Commanders didn't fully take into account.To date 4000 American men and women have given their lives to try and improve the quality of life for the Iraqi people and the news media continues to hammer us on this issue all the while never bothering to mention that during that same time frame 2003 to 2008 over 100,000 AMERICANS died at the hand of other AMERICANS in AMERICA now someone tell me who,s the enemy here why doesn,t the news media put this issue in it's proper perspective. Maybe they think it would be "politically incorrect" maybe people in this country are afraid to wrestle this issue.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jake Jacobsen, Marshall, Wisconsin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:08:39 GMT

Undoubetedly Iran wants to forment it's point of view in Iraq. Oil is the end game. Iraq has a lot of it, and the Shia majority in Iraq stands to control the country's wealth. The U.S. invaded Iraq with oil as the end game. What made us think that the Iranians would not also contend for this prize?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Peter Issaquah, Wash. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:11:33 GMT

This story is typical of the method the media would use to control views on the war in Iraq. Let's look at it another way. All the enimies were there from the start or shortly after the fall of an evil dictator. We defeated them in order of priority so as each one was defeated, we could look to the next one. This explains the difficulty and the time it has taken to get to here. We have been lead to believe that if this were done right or not at all we would be in a better place right now. People who preach hindsight as wisdom forget about our human nature and reality. Doing nothing about a cancer allows it to grow to lethal spread and mass. This is much more complicated than that and no one has THE right answer. If you do nothing, human life is lost. If you make mistakes, human life is lost. If you operate, human life is lost. I'm sorry folks, but in this case, the ends justifies the means. Honor our fallen.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Your Name, Tacoma WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:13:57 GMT

This is typical knee jerk reactionary crap. Where did Saddam's WMD's come from? Reagan, to fight Iran. The WMD's he used on the kurds? The same ones we gave him. 04-05.. what a joke of a statement, democracy and freedom are not spread by the barrel of a gun. You misspelled Al-Quada, it is spelled Al-C.I.A.da. The whole war on terror is a lie and the people know it. Why is it that a site like this spreads the same media spin on everything, can't you be original?

Look at the historic lies of "our" current dictator!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

jorge — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:14:36 GMT

There has never been any campaign of this type in the Middle East that has ever worked. Sooner or later, alliances break up, old hatreds surface or a series of skirmishes turns into outright war.

Part of the problem is that the US doesn't appear to understand the dynamics of Muslim politics. When we get an agreement with them, we expect them to stick to it thru thick and thin. Doesn't work like that. Muslim politics is all about temporary alliances, shifting allegiances--a contant flux.

You'd think we'd have learned this having watched virtually every "friend" we had in the Middle East turn against us but apparently not.

IOW, it's going to be an endless parade of "biggest obstacles" that we will encounter in our fight for victory over there (whatever that might be).

It's hard to believe anybody thought George Bush had what it takes to accomplish anything useful over there.

As for the generals insisting the surge is working, suggest to them we start withdrawing--they will tell you we can't yet. And if by some miracle (or curse) we're still there 10 years from now, they'll still be telling we can't leave just yet.

The bottom line on our involvement in Iraq is that we can never leave.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bill Witting, Arlington, VA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:15:27 GMT

Part of the answer to this question is the extent to which the Iranian Government is indeed pulling the strings of Shi'a militia activity in Iraq. Serving in Iraq, I have been reminded frequently by Iraqi Shi'a that there is a long history of Iraqi Arab Shia resistance to Iranian Persian Shi'a domination of Iraq. While there are no doubt some Iraqi Shi'a who are effectively agents for the Iranian Government, there are certainly many others who if not oppose links to Iran at least view the links as at most a marriage of convenience. It would be helpful if you and other correspondents in Iraq could delve deeper into current trends in the Iraqi Shi'a relationships with the Iranian Government and other Iranian groups rather than simply accepting the tendency to refer to "Iran" as a monolith.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Allen, Rock Island, Illinois — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:16:30 GMT

Every setback or failure is explained by another bad guy. Sure Iran is seizing the opportunity to build their position in Iraq. But the real problem is that we openned a Pandora's box by invading Iraq and have to deal with a slew of factions and militias willing to kill for advantage. Iran is just taking advantage as best it can. Besides, now that the administration has apparently sided with pro-Iranians like Hakim and Maliki against an Iraqi nationalist like Sadr, it seems we have chosen to work to Iran's benefit. Maybe now that we are doing their work for them, Iran will ratchet down their support for attacks against us...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tracy McGrady, Houston, Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:16:35 GMT

Its lunacy to assume that an unstable Iraq is beneficial to Iran. Why Iran would be amassed with shia refugees if Iraq stays the course or digresses further into oblivion. Ironically, Iran actually would hold more influence in Iraq if normal and proper democracy was introduced in Iraq.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve M. Tacoma WA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:18:32 GMT

Lies and no proof of any weapons, personnel nothing in terms of proof that Iran has done a thing. Why don't you just come right out and say we need to attack Iran based on nothing?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Robert — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:20:29 GMT

I don't understand why we are being so timid with Iran. If we can prove they are providing weapons to our enemies and killing our soldiers. We must strike back at them. Diplomacy is preferable, but we aren't even doing that! I know we can't afford an all out war with Iran, but we also can't afford to allow them to kill our people and the Iraqi people. Seal the borders, kill their agents in Iraq, but keep them out of Iraq by all means necessary!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

martin clark, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:21:21 GMT

To answer the question it is The flavor of the month.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Michael McCarthy Nashua NH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:23:36 GMT

I don't see it as very different than if a foreign country were arming and supporting gangs in LA, NY, or Chicago. There'd be chaos, and the police and national guard would be hard pressed to deal with it.

Iran has a vested interest in keeping Iraq down. It's the only other dominant power in the region that could contend with Iran. Iran, and other countries like Syria will have a harder time keeping their own people down if Iraq becomes a prosperous nation. The same way North Korea, looks shabby compared to the success of South Korea.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

behrooz, houston, texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:23:57 GMT

Yes I agree. As an Iranian I know what the Iranian regime wants to do. You should not believe a word that comes from the Iranian regime. They want chaos all over the world so that they would be safe at Iran, ruling deprived Iranians and ravage Iran's natural wealth. So yes, this undemocratic regime of Iran wants chaos in Iraq so that US would eventually gets tired and leave. Then they will turn Mahdi Army in Iraq into another Hizbollah in that's in Labanon. Fully equipped.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Phil GT — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:26:15 GMT

I still have not heard a sensible explanation on why Iran wants the the current Pro-Iranian Shiite dominated government to fail. Does Iran want to influence Iraq? Of course they do. They know that the U.S. could pull out at any moment and then the anti-Iranian Sunnis would have their chance to regain control.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jiggs Casey Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:26:21 GMT

More than just the flavor of the month, it's the latest line of rhetoric pressed upon the military from the white house. It's no big secret that this administration is gunning to invade Iran. I'm not calling the integrity of these officers into question; These men are soldiers, and it is their duty to follow orders. If ordered to say that Mickey Mouse is responsible for the violence, they would do so(Truthfully, they probably wouldn't blame Mickey and Co. though, because they aren't looking to invade Orlando or Anaheim...or maybe they will, those lines are really, really long). I'm pretty sure this "casual remark in passing" has happened to many journalists in Iraq. It's all part of the White House' propaganda machine.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

TW, NYC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:26:23 GMT

Insurgencies need capital, employees, and equipment just like any other enterprises. I'm sure Iran is not the only source of trouble, just the most significant source. The question is what will make them stop without driving the panic-striken oil market higher?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

M. Murphy, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:27:44 GMT

Yes, there will always be someone who doesn't like Pralines and Cream forced down their throats. We will brand them the enemy, kill them and steal their resources.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John S — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:29:30 GMT

the problem is that the 8 wasted years of the Bush presidency has only emboldened Irans' penchant for proxy militias to fight their battles..it gives them plausible deniability in their endeavors..Iran has been and as long as the clerics run Iran will always be an enemy of the U.S...The real problem is the arrogance of Bush combined with his ignorance in being able to devise ANY kind of cohesive strategy for defining our goals ..It seems we go from brush fire to brush fire..most of which were started by Bush ...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

David Powell, Ocean City NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:33:57 GMT

Iran's mullahs up to their old dumbness, well a democratic Iraq next door is something they'd fear because the young Iranians don't want the repression they have there now.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

bruce — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:34:54 GMT

Lets not forget, alQaeda was never in Iraq until the usa toppled saddam.
Lets not forget, militias were not a problem until the usa toppled Saddam.
Lets not forget that the usa heavily supported Saddam in the 80s(remember Reagan and the iran-contra affair, and how Reagan militarized iraq to fight iran!!!!)
It seems to me that the problem with Iraq IS THE USA!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

S. Wedding — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:36:24 GMT

Why does nobody mention the fact that the Sunnis are funded by the Saudis? We all know that Bush is hell bent on attacking Iran, another Nation that is no theat to the U.S.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

john doe — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:38:51 GMT

First of all I want to salute everybody on this forum site.
"At the beginings there was a strike of light and then the dark took over the sky"
When we started the war in the name of freedom and democratic Iraq we based our ideeas on a flawed assumtion that the Iraq was our enemy and we brought in the game the corporate America pushing us into this mindless war through a series of lies commited by the boneless parts of government and intelligence services.
Their goal was clear to get control over the regional energy resources more specifc the oil.
Even though we were suppose to have leaders that use the clear head judgement whenever we head our nation into a war unfortunately those leaders were kind of a missing in action and stopped reasoning due to a lack of air supplies or brain activity disorders (i.e. paranoia)

A thing it is very clear that we have to change the course 180 degree and think different if we want to succeed in the Persian golf otherwise we're getting closer to a big fat failure in that region of the world.
If we'll think about past wars we are suppose to learn something from those mistakes but unfortunatelly that does not apply to us.
If you think about the past ,the only war that we manage to win and to establish a durable peace was only the World War II and that was due to the fact that the people wanted to trade the tyranny for democracy and the dark light for the white light and the whole world jumpped in and helpped us unconditional and finally we were considered champions of justice and democracy real heroes etc.
We're fighting for our land of our ancestors where we all came from and for the threat to our country USA.
Unfortunatelly that is not the case with us nowaday.
what we have achieved after 5 years of war 3000 civilians WTC + 4057 service men(and still
counting....) + unknown number of iraqi civilians and american contractors + 12.000.000.000 a month for Iraq war + military equipment destroyed +Afganistan war + military victims Afganistan +35.000 disabled service men (Afganistan+Iraq)and the list is getting bigger and bigger everyday.
At home prices on food and gasoline swirling towards the +infinite ,inflation worries, home crisis and God knows what's comming next.
It is clear the Iran is gonna be interested in supporting the insurgency in Iraq as long as american forces continue to be stationed in Iraq and is supporting a marionette regim similar to iranian shah wich sparked the iranian revolution and the american iranian crisis.
More over due to the fact that we have jumpped in the fray pan wearrring cowboy boots instead of diplomatic shoes was an other minus point for USA and will cost us dearly in the comming years.
So if we think that USA is a piece of land to small for a such a big planet I will go for a diplomat or negociator as the next commander in chief cause we might have to face other threats infinite much bigger and much dangerous than Iraq and we must be prepared to face them when the time comes.
Final word :
Be careful about who you gonna vote for and what you citizens are expecting from the next president and from your governement.The way you vote same way your life is gonna be for the next 4 years or maybe 8 .

God bless you all and God bless the USA

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

T Castro, SF, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:38:53 GMT

Unfortunately this is emblematic of this administrations foreign policy failings. Given a lack of diplomatic dialogue with Iran on any level with a notably aggressive tone in the US response and the subsequent posturing by the Iranian government, it's no wonder that we can't contain potential Iranian influence on Shiite's in Iraq. In a region where major power is split between the large Sunni governments of Saudi Arabia/Egypt/Jordan and the main Shiite power broker of Iran, it is imperative that we begin some form of discussion with both sides that may influence sectarian groups within Iraq. We can't talk to one side and not the other and expect stability. I know we may want to sit and wait until we can have multiparty talks with Iran, but the narrow focus on such diplomatic policies has resulted in diplomatic stagnation and failure on many fronts (most notably North Korea). Waiting for China or Russia to apply pressure to Iran is like waiting for rain to water your garden. It may do a more effective and efficient job, but will cause your plants to die in the short term. This is by no means giving a pass to the hard-line fanatical nut jobs who run Iran, but we can't continue to expect Iran to cut off money from their strategic interests in Iraq, when we won't even try to make some diplomatic gesture to talk to them. They may be crazy, but they're not stupid.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Kate Scattergood — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:40:51 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq is continued US involvement. A multi-national commission should be set up to assist the US in leaving the country and to oversee the formation of a tri-party government consisting of the three religous groups.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

R, Chicago, IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:41:44 GMT

Does the US government blame the Mexican government for the smugglers who bring drugs across our border?? I mean, come on, these smugglers are interfering with our "War on Drugs."

To impute the actions of a few on the nation as a whole is completely absurd. In the case of Iran, it's warmongering. It's dangerous. It's retarded.

Furthermore, we now know that the "evidence" this administration used to take our country to war with Iraq was "altered." The Pentagon advisors were "prepped" before going on TV to lie to the American people. Bush is incapable of being honest to his people.

With an administration that demonstrates an ongoing pattern of dishonesty, why should we believe anything they say about Iran??

Plus, if the US was so concerned about Iranian influence in Iraq, then they wouldn't have installed Maliki, an Iranian-backed Shia, as the new Iraqi leader.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

joe from austin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:43:06 GMT

Flavor of the month without a doubt. What if we left after we toppled Saddam? What would Iraq look like? It would have been a civil war but it will be one someday anyway. They all want a piece of the pie, sunnis, shia, Iran, Syria, Saudi Arabia. The country was a western invention let them fight for it I will still buy oil from the winner.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Karl Dauer Denver CO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:43:43 GMT

Iran would be the bigest problem in Iraq ?
Billions of people "don't think so" ! What do they think ? We want to attack them because is "only" in our interest nobody elses globaly but ours ! If war doesn't make imbecilic amount of money at least 100 billion each ! Our country "would quit wars very long times ago" !! Humanitarian wars ? Only the dum, the uninformed and the analfabets do buy into ! Nobody else !

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

M Onger — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:45:32 GMT

Are we becoming a nation of whiners? We armed the Taliban and Sadaam Hussein when it suited our purposes. Israel's' nuclear capability was either given or stolen from us. The fact that Iran is behaving according to its self interest and its perceived threat (us?) should not be a shocking revelation nor the cause of hand wringing. Maybe the fact that we manage to turn former allies into enemies, especially as a flavor of the month, should be the real concern?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ron Russell, San Diego, Ca. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:47:41 GMT

"U.S. military commanders deduce that if Iran stopped stoking the fires of conflict, both Sunnis and Shiites would stop fighting long enough for Iraq to blossom into the prosperous nation"
The Iranians need to be reminded that the United States of America can swat them like a fly, and set them back decades if they continue to kill our military service men and women. It is time for Iranians to acknowledge this quickly, as their fait hangs in the balance.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Justin, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:49:07 GMT

No, Bush is the biggest problem in Iraq. Why is it that the media is either silenced or chooses to ignore the war crimes commited by the President of the United States?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tim Briggs, Houston, Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:49:43 GMT

Anyone familiar with the Middel East will tell you. There is no one on a regional scale to negotiate with. There are so many fragments that it is impossible to reach consensus. Arabs are fighting Arabs, Arabs are fighting Jews. Everyone is fighting the US. This scenario has been going on for thousands of years in one way or another.

If these guys would leave the West alone, then let them do what they want to each other. But, the oil is there and we need it. We have alternative oil supplies offshore America, so why don't we use it instead of theirs?

A very few people in our country are blocking this. For Christ sake wake up, use or own resources, and forget about the idots in the Middle East.

Best Regards
Tim Briggs

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

David Balicki — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:50:12 GMT

I think it is logically false to include Saddam Hussein amongst the groups of aggressors in the first place. His demise triggered the subsequent uprising of these groups. It would seem difficult to determine how many groups there are. And it would be foolsih to think that a new group could not possibly form tomorrow. These groups could be equated to your "flavor of the month". But your tell-tale use of "just another.." is indicative of the mix of emotions that are running rampant: frustation, apathy, and despair. It would be best if you did not feed any of these 3 emotions but rather to remain hopeful that Iran's Revolutionary Guard would be the LAST group of agressors we would face in Iraq. Might there be another group that would rise up after the Iran Revolutionary Guard? Let's hope and pray not. That should be our response to your question.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

James L Dywob, Seattle, Wash — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:50:14 GMT

Beating the drums for a new war. Lets just keep goosesteping along.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

dl — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:53:07 GMT

I guess we won't know until we do something about Iran.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Young American, Anytown, USA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:55:08 GMT

Thank you for your editorial piece. It sheds some light on the real problem at hand. We need to think about what is good for the people of Iraq, not the U.S. government when it comes to stability in Iraq. The United States will be successful when Iraq can flourish, which will only happen when Iraq becomes an autonomous, sovereign nation (not a nation who'se government is mandated by whom a foreign invader dictates should lead). We need to let the Iraqi people decide how they want to govern themselves, for true democracy to blossom in Iraq.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mark — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:56:01 GMT

The US needs to move with caution here. The last thing we need is to spread this into Iran. We dont have the manpower or the resilience to embroil ourself in another conflict. I suggest we fight a quiet fight, sending a carrier group as a "warning" as we did today only serves to increase tensions.

Once Iran declares itself a nuclear armed nation (and it's likely it will) then have NATO take on this battle. We cant be going it alone anymore as we have in Iraq, twice. The world's nations need to move with us.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jackie a smart liberal, Boston, MA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:03:02 GMT

Most of you are ultra left-wing fools. Iran is definitley a big problem. Terrorism isn't a made up thing you fool "Your Name" of Tacoma.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Rararoadrunner — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:05:04 GMT

I'm impressed that so many, including so many US Americans, see through the "Lie Machine" that seeks to blind and deafen us to the world.

The contrast between the US military commanders (which, we have subsequently learned, are used by the Pentagon as "message force multipliers") and we, the people, couldn't be clearer: yes, the US presence in Iraq is the main destabilising force; yes, the armed presence of these forces in the USA continues to destabilise this country as well.

And yes, absolutely, what's being done to the Iraqi people is a "dress rehearsal" of what may soon come to the USA.

No, we, the people of the USA don't have armed forces to defend and protect us from those commanded by the Lie Machine: let us destroy that Lie Machine with floods of truth, like this and countless other blogs, before we are forced to re-learn what the 2nd Amendment is all about.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Fernado, Oneida, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:06:33 GMT

It is amazing to me that after all this time and all of the misinformation that has been discovered, no one wants to address the real issues. We the U.S. have either led or participated in punishing the German soldiers of WW2 for doing what we are doing - in the name of protecting American interest. Also we are so ready to fight for this so called democracy - well the Bush administration seems to thin that we are now a dictatorship and only the President has to ower to incarcerate, wire tap and otherwise threaten nespaper people for punishing what we are not upposed to know. Come on people take America back andlets make it great agin. Get rid of every single incumbit that allowed the Bush Shaney goons to take control and look the other way.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Roberto, Everett, Wash. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:07:20 GMT

Those "senior military officials" need educating. Al-Qaeda has nothing to do with Iran. One is sunni the other is shiite. They don't like each other. But since McCain wants war with Iran might as well put out the propaganda that Iran is dangerous. Please!! Israel could bomb them back to the stone age. Stop with the fear tactics already. Iraq is fractured and will stay that way until people there let go of religious extremism and hate which probably won't happen in our life time. What victory is that?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jimmy Crackhorn — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:07:24 GMT

If anyone believes the whitewash they are trying to put on the latest suicide bombings you deserve to pay for this war and care for a wounded veterant the rest of your life.

The real sickness here is American apathy towards foreign policy, and the ability of this administration to take FULL ADVANTAGE and promote more apathy with an ongoing non-stop propaganda effort to keep American citizens afraid, ignorant, or just plain ambivalent.

This country is rotting from the inside out and I'm afraid I blame it all on the citizens for letting it happen to themselves for so long. You buy hogwash then you swim with pigs. You believe propaganda because you do not care enough to seek the truth then you deserve to get taken by your govertnment and the media. If you buy that this is all we need to do before calm and peace is restored you are stupid, naive, and most likely attend church twice a week. Therein lies our nation's folly.....

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Paul, Oak Harbor, Wa — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:09:32 GMT

I don't know about you, but I'm tired of seeing our troops getting killed. Lets go get the people that are supporting the deaths of our Military and sack them!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tony, Saint John, Canada — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:11:46 GMT

chicken salad?
pralines ice cream? Did you enjoy the taste of KBR blood on your tongue?
Try reading the history of the middle east and recognizing that the British (and US) lines drawn in the middle east, central asia, and africa are THE source of conflict for the 20th and now 21st centuries
Try reading books like "Kabul In Winter" by Ann Jones
Your ignorance is offensive
Your squatting in Iraq to write superficial stories is offensive
You merely mimic the ignorance of this administration
"Agricola was aware of the temper of the provincials, and took to heart the lesson which was the experience of other suggested, THAT LITTLE WAS ACCOMPLISHED BY FORCE IF INJUSTICE FOLLOWED" -- Tacitus
Those too stupid to read or understand history are doomed to repeat it

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Hamed, San Diego, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:12:00 GMT

they are both working together. on the surface they have war of words but behind the curtain they both want the oil prices to remain high. they might even go as far as limited war to keep the region in chaos so the oil prices remain high. of course both countries have their own interests as well which is why they are competing for Iraq's oil fields and projects.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Albert, Nashua, NH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:31:12 GMT

The real problem in Iraq is the women don't shave their muffs! I mean I would be crazy too if I had to dig through all that hair to find gold! That and they need more Oreo Double Stuffed cookies! YUM!!!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

ma monks — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:33:54 GMT

The surge , We paid The Sunni's to stop fighting us. Well that tactic will not last long. these guys wanted the money to gear up against the sunni"s for some unfinished business. Gen petrausis just a another government stooge who pads his job so he can get a raise and move on before his project goes to hell.... no leadership no results...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

bob — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:35:02 GMT

i think the U.S IS THE PROBLEM IN IRAQ, I ALSO THINK IRAN IS NOT INNOCEN, THE U.S GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO STOP WORRING ABOUT OTHER COUNTRIES AND START THINKING ABOUT ITS OWN PEOPLE, INSTEAD OF THROWING US TO THE WOLVES, WHILE THE U.S. OFFICIALS LIVE THE LAVISH LIFE ON OUR TAX DOLLARS.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Shad, Los Lunas, NM — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:35:13 GMT

This article and many of its readers perpetuate the argument that Iran is not a major problem in Iraq or has only recently begun supporting the various Shiite militias. On what do you base your arguments? Experience?
Having just completed a year long tour in Iraq I can validate the success of the "surge" and also the Iranian governments propensity for arming both Sunni and Shiite insurgents. Every mortar and EFP (Explosively Formed Projectile) we had dropped on us, or that we were lucky enough to find prior to detonation, was supplied by Iran.
Theirs is not a noble effort to liberate a tyranical foe for the sake of religion, democracy or freedom. Theirs is to destabalize for purely political means.
My countries goals were noble.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

An Iraq vet in Idaho — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:35:43 GMT

Iran and Iraq have had an uneasy relationship for years; perhaps Bush forgot that Reagan supported Hussein in the Iran/Iraq war because Iraq was seen as a counterweight to Iran's influence. Remove that counterweight and replace it with general anarchy and of course Iran will get involved. If Mexico or Canada was in the situation Iraq is in you can better believe the US would be interfering in those nations in order to influence the formation of a government. We need to come to some sort of agreement with Iran about the future of the middle east; this can only come through diplomacy, not starting another war which the US isn't strong enough to fight right now anyway, unless we reinstate the draft and let all the war lovers put their money where their mouth is. Better yet get out of there entirely; I'll be damned if I can see why the US as the most powerful nation in the world feels threatened by Iran. Terrorism will always be with us, and we do ourselves no favors by fomenting hate and discontent around the world through the indiscriminate use of military force.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mark California — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:36:54 GMT

I love how Foriegners chime in this sort of stuff...
Always whinning about America this America that.

This war in Iraq has made it easy for so called "American Allies" to down play America and posture while America actually does something about a problem that would fester which would result in more global terrorism.

You would think people of the world would be thankful that America is cleaning the hedges of terrorism.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bob, Fredonia, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:37:23 GMT

Unfortunately the problem is not Iran, but a colony of apes that has descended upon Iraq from the third ring of Saturn. I also believe these apes to be the culprits behind the use of corn for ethanol. If Mrs. Brady can't get a hand on Sam the Butcher and Alice's relationship, we're all doomed!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Greg Deere, West Lafayette, IN. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:37:41 GMT

We are involved in a situation that is a cause and effect senerio. First, if we can remember, we were attacked on Sept. 11, 2001. It seems that we forget rather quickly in the United States if it affects our pocket books. Our government, headed by George Bush stated that those who were responsible must pay the consequences. The attack was issued upon the Islamic radicals in Afghanistan and we drove them out of power in that country. Did this completely rid us of the threat? The answer is no. Additional Islamic radicals occupied Iraq under the protection of Saddam Hussein. Did we need to go after the Islamic radicals in Iraq? Seems like we haven't had another attack in the United States since then. Do we abandon Iraq so Iran can sweep in and take over? It seems as if to me that Iran is also controlled by an Islamic radical who threatens to do whatever is necessary to overcome the U.S. and Israel. We have grown tired of war in the United States, which Saddam Hussein said we would, just not soon enough for him. If Iran is shown as contributing to the instability in the Middle-East then by all means let us have the courage to protect ourselves once again and promote freedom in the world and not terrorism.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dick de Seve — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:40:09 GMT

Too many of the posts I read here are truly frightening. Let's use "tactical" nuclear weapons on a nation that has never attacked, nor even threatened us (see Iran, Iraq). 4000 Americans have died to make things "better" for the Iraqi people...etc. Are all of you as totally insane as George Bush? The US attacked Iraq with no provocation whatsoever. That is a war crime. We attacked Afghanistan under the thinnest of veneers (Al Qaeda and 9/11) which, to this day, we have no credible solid evidence of. Iran goes to the aid of its neighbors who have been unjustly attacked, and it's supposed to be they who are the terrorists? If Rev. Wright is correct about anything, it is that this nation is an international terrorist nation, having exported terrorism in the form of these unwarranted attacks against other nations. That blowback he speaks of is those nations banding together to try to repel us, the US, the aggressor. We are the main problem in Iraq, and the sooner the Iraqis band together to defeat us, the better off this world, and the Middle East, will be.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

FRAN S — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:42:03 GMT

THE BIGGEST PROBLEM IN IRAQ IS THE GOOD OLD U.S OF A.AND THE REASON WE ARE THERE IS BECAUSE 58 MILLION IDIOTS VOTED FOR A MORON.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Chuck Stilojanovich, Beltsville, MD — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:42:05 GMT

Iran is definitely the problem in Iraq, besides the Iraqis. In fact the problem is all non-Americans in Iraq. If they would all just leave we could get on with George Bush's plans for the largest theme park in the Middle East!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve, Tyler, Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:42:08 GMT

The problem is there, always has been and always will be. We just had the misfortune to let an Idiot get us into this and we are too week willed to insist we get out. I would never defend Iran, but when you talk about "crazies" who would use the nucular bomb? Remember the only country who has actually used them????

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Robert Daehn, El Paso Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:42:48 GMT

I really think the news medias are owned by Iran and their buddies.

This country is now engage in the war that was won 1000 years ago by the Catholics. Europe was invaded by the Muslims, the Great hordes, and then Europe stood up and fought back. Now they run and hide.

If the news media loves the Muslims so much, they should leave America and take home in Iran.

News medias, please help our country and stop hurting it. The Muslims will not stop until they kill everyone who is not Muslim.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Karen, Va Beach, Virginia — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:44:24 GMT

I dont know how many will agree with me..but here goes.....first, bring ALL OF OUR TROOPS HOME....the money we will save by DEFENDING OURSELVES will be amazing. We will be able to defend our borders, feed our hungry. educate our young, etc., we are WAY TO BUSY making sure everyone else in the world is OK!...lets go back to making sure WE'RE OK!..I dont mean to be mean spirited but ENOUGH IS ENOUGH....its time to worry about home now!!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Carmen D Rivera Brooklyn New York — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:44:36 GMT

Richard: Yes, Iran in the short term is the biggest "problem" in Iraq, but in the long term, Germany is going not only Iraq's problem, but the whole world's biggest NIGHTMARE!!! You'll see!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

David, NYC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:45:20 GMT

Darn it Bill Greaves. I finally get to do my first comment and as soon as I open it you took my EXACT words!

Yep, we should have never been there in the first place. I cannot think of one single positive that has come out of this. Not one.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Maurice Hampson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:46:41 GMT

Strange question.....the answer is that the US is the problem. Our mental midget Bush will be remembered as our worst President ever. Wahat an absolute disater....can't his wife or advisors shut him up and stop the embarassment? About 80% of our Country eagerly looks forward to a new era ...under any President! This nightmare must end.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Thomas Shows, Batesville, MS — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:46:49 GMT

Th biggest problem in Iraq is the Democratic party. The Democrats are vested in the defeat of the US in Iraq so the Bush administration will look bad. It's all about ploitical gains for the Democrats.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Maurice Hampson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:47:21 GMT

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

A. Rafat — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:48:00 GMT

Iran sees a stable Iraq with American military based in Iraq as a threat to their stability. Therefore, Iran will not, ever, allow this to happen. That is the bottom line!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Viet — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:48:31 GMT

To solve Iraq problems:
1- Get rid of Muqtada al-Sadr.
2- Nuke Iran.
3- Bring troops home.
4- Who else wants to mess with America?.... China for sure....but they will look at Iran for example.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

d miller — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:50:07 GMT

remember 9-11. the terrorists attacked us, my God, they attacked us. don't forget the means in which they did it. remember the troops over there, sure we want then home and "safe", but most of them know why they are there, and many have gone again and again. close our boarders.....to everyone.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Wes Z, Reseda, California — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:50:52 GMT

why do we think we can invade a country for their resources? why do we think we can go into a country & expect ppl to adopt our beliefs & live the way we want them to? it doesnt work? cant believe ppl are so blind. its like china invading us & shoving communism down our throats. the biggest obstacle in iraq is the united states still being there. do we really think peace is going to prevail with americans being on iraqi soil? for a 100 years in sen mccain had his way. if we want peace in iraq we have to get out of iraq. if we want peace in the region we need to help the palestinian ppl as well. cant believe this is my country's govt. going invading ppl, killing ppl, & supporting a govt who stole the homeland of another ppl. over 4000 of our citizens are dead! for what?? it makes my skin crawl when i think of this administration

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Neal L, Kokomo In. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:52:07 GMT

The biggest threat in Iraq and the Middle East as a whole is the power vacuum Bush created there by removing Sadam Hussein from power. Without Hussein and whatever magical powers he held over the majority Shiite population (fear of torture and death) in Iraq, it is a sitting duck for Iran to sweep in and take over the minute we leave (they tried before and Sadam beat them back). Saudi Arabia does not want Iranian next door neighbors and they can't afford to occupy and defend Iraq from Iran on their own. The heavily armed seven million Sunnis loyal to Sadam and Shiites willing to fight with them is what prevented Iran from taking over Iraq years ago. Now we have to decide, do we keep a 300,000 man fighting force (Military and private) in Iraq forever, pull out and risk Iran over running the country with the help of 14 million Iraqi Shiites and subsequently threatening Saudi Arabia and the entire Middle East, or do we draw 50,000 troops back to a defensive posture to prevent Iranian insurgency, allow the Iraqis to keep peace internally and set about to aggressively reduce the world's dependency on oil as fuel and reduce the Middle East to a tourist trap for religious vacationers by investing heavily in bio fuels, wind farms and solar energy? These will all be required to transition from 100% petroleum to 90% electrically fueled vehicles. Gas Electric Hybrid Plug-ins have the potential to do that. Currently, the market is driving this energy conversion with $3.79/gallon regular unleaded. CAFE limits imposed by Congress and accelerated by the White House will further push the automotive industry to 90% Electric vehicles. When oil is needed only for lubrication, making plastic and extending a hybrids range to a full day drive, no one will care who lives where in the Middle East, or what their religion is.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Valhalla, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:54:08 GMT

The bane of being a world power is that one needs to control oil in order preserve the world status quo regardless we are the ones consuming the ME oil or not because the current technology worldwide depends on it. The problem is that the oil producing nations esp. Iran does not want this to keep going on. They know very well that stirring trouble does them good since they're well aware that US will be held in a double-standard by the rest of the world when it comes to waging dirty warfare/casualties.

Had we limited the scope of the war to Afghanistan then the money spent by the US in Iraq would have been put into good use, e.g., coming up with new technology for vehicles, household power consumption and battery technology. In short, the problem described above can be countered in the long term by creating a paradigm shift in the energy usage driving the current technology to be independent of ME oil. Since ME Oil are the bargaining chips of these rats, then we might as well devalue it.

My 2 cents...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mark, manhattan, ny — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:54:12 GMT

Muqtada al-Sadr is kinda like the jeremia wright of Iraq . Obama 08!! The shame he brings to my beloved corps and my country. Certain leaders do prey on hate and anger. Similarly Sadr, Wright and Sharpton seem to be those kind of people that don't want the rest of the country to move forward. I have faith in Barack Obama. As a sergeant in the marines, I would love for him to be my commander and chief. HooraH!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

G-Brown — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:57:13 GMT

Since the vietnam war,USA has attacked 27 countries for the name of democracy and freedum...Guess,how many of these countries are free TODAY? None..!
choosing George Bush as a president for a great nation such as America was an insult to people's intelect.Iran is a nation that in 600 years has never started a war with any country..But each time been attacked,has fought vigorously...and will do it again if USA ever dares to attack.what the Bush administration is doing in Iraq is illigal,and criminal,and has to get out of there as soon as possible.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John, Boston, MA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:57:30 GMT

Iran has been there for a while as they were supporting the Medhi army. They were biding their time while we were addressing the issue of al - Qaeda in hoping they can influence the politics in Iraq and keep the US preoccupied in Iraq. The surge was a 2 front war; the surge strategy was first focused on al-Qaeda, while they got the Shia militia and Al Sadr to agree to a cease fire. Now that al-Qaeda is much less of a threat they are focusing on the militias which is the next roadblock to reconciliation. Malaki made a strong decision to address the militia problem as the first sign of legitimacy of the Iraq government, albeit a little to early for US liking. Basra seems to be in control by government forces with fighting going on mainly in Sadr City. But it seems like it is succeeding. Sadr is looking for a way out, but may not yield enough control from all the various factions of the Medhi army. The next phase after the Medhi army will be to hold on to this fragile reconciliation in place enough to make political and economic improvements. The question is how much progress will they make and long will it take. The power vacuum from the invasion was originally filled by Sunni and Shia struggling for control along with proxy wars by al Qaeda and Iran. The vacuum seems to be filling in now by a government that is starting to stand on its feet and hopefully there is no more room for any new flavors of the month.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Sally Ride, Orlando, FL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:57:51 GMT

The US is the biggest problem! How dare they remove a ruthless dictator in hopes of changing the face of the middle east for the better and prove others the freedom enjoyed by Americans. The US should withdraw and become a communist state like North Korea. Also, all American women should wear burkas!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ron, Leavenworth, KS — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:58:16 GMT

The author just wanted to spin up excitable people to generate extensive blogging.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

HJR Portland,or — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:58:36 GMT

The US military has always had the option of redeploying troops to guard border entries & ports. We simply chose rather to mix it up internally over and over, basically fighting the enemy’s war. YOU ARE NOT RUNNING WHEN NO ONE IS CHASING YOU. If we had stayed out of the internal fray it would have burned itself out. But it would have revealed the failure of the previous 3 years of strategy. So the Bush policy continues; "if you find yourself in a hole, you just keep digging". The greatest ‘positive’ accomplishment to reconstructing Iraq so far is the US embassy in Baghdad, a gigantic monolith to the absurdity of the war.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Matt M — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:59:30 GMT

The real problem is religion. You live by it, you die by it, and once your gone...well that's it. Your gone. No heaven, no earth, no hell, no paradise, no virgins, no after-life.
This is it, this is all you've got.
Want to live forever after your death? Cure a disease, land on Mars, revolutionize technology, invent an alternative power source.

Your crusades, jihads, and whatever other stupidity you use to back up the fighting between these gangs of sand monkies are all useless wastes of resources in the name of a diety that does not exist.

Education/Science > Fundamentalist/Religious lies.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

MJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:02:05 GMT

Has this writer looked into the Badr Brigades, a BIGGER militia than the Mahdhi Army. They are in fact the Iraqi Army now and hbe closer ties to Iran than the Mahdhi Army does. Who's kidding who here?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John Doe (yeah, we are nothing more than that), Seattle, Washington — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:04:34 GMT

I am sorry, but heck, I could'nt care less about Iraq. Yes, it is a bloody mess, and yes, we are responsible. All I care about right now, are:
a) Being able to pay for my mortgage
b) Being able to pay my gas bills for my commute
c) Being able to pay my utilities
d) Being able to buy the groceries I need for my family
e) Being able to send my one child to a decent school that has enough money to provide her with a good education.

Wow, sounds basic doesn't it. Well, I must be making real low money if I can't fulfill my basic desires. Hmmm, no I make 6 figures plus and I have these problems. So what the fuck is wrong!!!!

So get out of Iraq or wherever, spend the damn money where it is needed and once in a while, IF we have to deal with the bogeyman, we as a nation are strong enough to deal with it.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Irwin, Thousand Oaks, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:04:48 GMT

It's obvious! The biggest problem is the U.S., who've played the role of divider of Iraqi sects (as well as destroyers of its people and society). I wish our media wil stop its spineless aping of the government and military already. If we leave, Iraqi will sort out this mess. We do need to pay reparations for this crime. It's unfortunate that our politicans and media keep laying the blame on this Iraqi faction or another for the continued problems. We're the only culprits! The Iraqis are understandably having trouble coping with this disaster.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John, Birmingham AL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:06:06 GMT

If the liberals in congress would've let us drill for oil and build refineries in our own country we would not have gotten as invovled with Iraq. God forbid we ruin a few plants. Now the same liberals blast Bush for the war after all of them supported it to begin with. Oh yeah, brings me to another point about going to war in Iraq. Every intellegence agency in the world beleived Suddam had weapons of mass destruction. And Bush was lying. Bush's only problem is that he cant put into words what is in his head. If he could he would be a lot more popular.
About Iran- I cant believe people on here are saying we are a bigger problem than Iran. All they want to do is kill as many American and Iraqi people they can. As well as wiping Isreal of the face of the planet. Iran and Russia, because of their long history beleive that their country has the right and should rule over all others. America believes we have the right to help all others. Reading some of these comments bashing the U.S. makes me ill. I cant believe that people actually think we are the problem in Iraq. Iraq is the Grand Central Station of the world and had a Dictator like Suddam ruling that would take money and turn his back on any dealings in his country as long as no-one tried to take power away from him. That leaves the U.S. blind while terrorist groups plot and plan on their next attack on us. Speaking of attacks, since Bush has been in office have we gotten attacked again? Nope, why, because we invaded Grand Central Station.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

SICK AND TIRED OF BUCKEYE,CHICAGO IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:06:12 GMT

AS FOR THE MORON JIMMY FROM THE BUCKEYE STATE THE ONLY THING MORE IGNORANT THAN YOUR STATEMENT IS YOUR IDEA THAT THERE WAS NO REASON TO ENGAUGE SADDAM,NOT ONLY THE MASS GRAVES,ROCKETS FOUND IN SCHOOL BASMENTS,THE AIR CRAFT BURRIED IN SAND,THE WAY THE UN DRAGGED ON OUR ENTERING OR THE SICK RACIST RUNNING IRAN,FRANCE,RUSSIA,CHINA ETC WERE IN BED WITH IRAQ EVEN THOUGH UN HAD SANCTIONS,THE ITALIANS SNUCK OUT OF COALITION BASES TO HELP INSURGENTS TO GET THERE HOSTIGES FREE EVEN THOUGH THEY KEPT BEHEADING OURS,ITS MORONS LIKE YOU WHO VOTED FOR BILL(I DONT FIGHT FOR MY COUNTRY)CLINTON WHO HAD NO PROBLEM INVADING KOSAVO,QUIT BLAMMING EVERYBODY AND EVERHTING ELSE FOR THIS SITUATION IT STARTED LONG AGO AND NOW IT MUST BE FINISHED AND IDIOTS LIKE YOU THANK GOD ARE NOT THE ONES TO DECIDE,IM TIRED OF EVERYTHING BEING GEORGE BUSHES FAULT IT AINT BLAME THE UN,AND ALL THE MORONS LIKE YOU WHO WANT TO WAIT TILL THE DOORS BEAT DOWN BEFORE DOING ANYTHING,THE ONLY THING TO DO IS TO FINISH AND UNLESS YOUR READY FOR ULTIMATE SACRAFICE SHUT UP AND TRY TO AT LEAST HELP HEAR AT HOME BECAUSE YOUR FOREIGN POLICY STINKS

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Lloyd, Dallas Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:07:40 GMT

Israel according to the Bible will win the war. Iran, China and Russia will be defeated. Who is Going to defeat them. God said the battle is not yours but it is the Lords. The worlds story from begining to End is in the Bible. The Bible is very accurate on this War.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

CARLOS, FT. MYERS FLORIDA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:10:44 GMT

I SAY PLACE AN AMERICAN STICKER ON THE OIL TAP AND BE DONE WITH IT. OBVIOUSLY THEY DON'T KNOW HOW TO GET ALONE WITH EACH OTHER. MIGHT AS WELL MAKE IT WORK FOR US.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

LARRY CREMEN WESTLAND MICH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:12:26 GMT

I MUST HAVE MISSES IT ON NBC NEWS THAT IRAN INVADED IRAQ.BUSH ROVE FOX NEWS PROMOTED THIS WAR FROM THE START. NOW ROVE WORKS FOR FOX. THAT FIGURES .

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ronin, VA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:14:10 GMT

Iraq's biggest problem is themselves!!! They can resist all of those terrorist, suppliers and Al Queda if they all come together to find them, jail them or simply eradicate them. They should say enough is enough...they should step up to bring their country back from all outsiders. Its their country, outsiders don't give a damn if they killed a lot of innocent civilians. America already done their part in bringing down Saddam, now it's the Iraqi's part to establish their own kind of freedom and democracy rather than sit back and watch the allies get killed for their freedom and not spend a dime from the profit they got from oil exports. It's up to you to clean your own house people after the police jailed the criminals. Also, Iraq's population are in millions against terrorist which are in thousands...and they cant resist those terrorist... please people do the math. PEOPLE POWER!!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mike K — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:15:46 GMT

Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Afganistan, Packistan, N. Korea, etc. etc...goes on and on....OH forgot George Bush and that half ass Chaney...name it and claim it dah....The problem lies within our government. Weakness in Congress and a President out of control.

We need a semi-isolationist policy...do you see China in this mess? No, they quietly mind their own business. We need to do the same...but if you **** with us, you pay the ultimate price.

Love the US or leave it....take your pick.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

CARLOS, FT. MYERS FLORIDA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:17:49 GMT

I SAY PLACE AN AMERICAN STICKER ON THE OIL TAP AND BE DONE WITH IT. OBVIOUSLY THEY DON'T KNOW HOW TO GET ALONE WITH EACH OTHER. MIGHT AS WELL MAKE IT WORK FOR US.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

rich degrasse — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:19:09 GMT

Don't you folks at NBC realize that no one trusts your reporting of this war? Shame on you and the rest of the networks for using analyst who are in the pocket of the defense industry and the Pentagon to push this war on the American public. SHAME ON YOU!!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

david fort worth texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:19:15 GMT

If America had adopted these ideas with Japan & Hitlers Germany in WWII, And just pulled out of the war, Were would we be today? Lets take care of busness on hand. If iran wants to stick their nose into it, Then give them what they are asking for, A way to meet their maker sooner, Not later. Their is no respect for our Vets, Living or dead. Vietnam taught us that, Now your telling the American people to do the same in Iraq. I guess what these people are trying to say is ( LET OUR SOLDIERS ALL DIE IN VEIN ) They gave their lives for nothing, Just to be called Baby killers, ETC. Wake-up people

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Scott Allen, Phoenix AZ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:21:45 GMT

OOOOO Come on America, can't we just get along. Lets turn to the one next to you and give um a big HUG.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Vinnie, Nashville,TN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:23:14 GMT

I hear some people suggesting that we should attack Iran. The question I have is what are the FINANCIAL consequences of doing this? Our leaders did not think much about the financial consequences in invading Iraq. With gas getting close to going over to $4 a gallon what will prices reach if we bomb Iran. Do you really think the people in the US will jump for joy with more gas prices increasing?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Beevo, Mount Joy, PA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:26:07 GMT

It disturbs me to see so many people willing to drop bombs on Iran. We invaded Iraq for all the wrong reasons. Iran is Iraq's next door neighbor and it does not want us there. Do you blame them? How would we react if Mexico or Canada were invaded? it clearly is our presence as an occupier that needs to change!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ockham, R. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:26:10 GMT

Iran is not the biggest problem in the Middle East – Iran is only at this moment the other power in the Middle East with significant Military Potential – and Iran has not yet acquiesced to US control.

The US Military Presence in Iraq is entirely the reason why Iran has become a US problem rather than a Middle Eastern problem.

If the United States Military withdrew from Iraq – Much of what we view as the Iranian problem would fade away.

Here are my 6 arguments supporting US Troop withdrawal from Iraq.

Argument 1 : There is no longer any need for US Troops on the Ground in Iraq.

In a pure military sense, there has been very little need for US Troops after the Iraqi Republican Guard collapsed. Thirty minutes after entering Bagdad would have been as good a time as any for the US to begin withdraw – as it was at this point in time that Saddam was effectively removed from power; after which US efforts to apprehend him were largely unnecessary.

(Saddam only lived to see his trial because the US insisted and provided the security to ensure that Saddam was not summarily executed).

Argument 2 : The cost of the conflict to the United States is completely out of proportion to the gains to date.

Since the US entered Bagdad and the British took Tecrete, the continued presence of US Troops has accomplished little in terms of the progress of the new Iraqi state. While it may have been necessary for the US Troops to be in Iraq to secure the democratic election – the results would likely have been no different with or without the highly publicized election: The Sunni boycott and the insistence of the Kurds on autonomy, would have occurred in any political process – and the Shia would have formed the Government of Iraq in any event. The US expenditure for these results : 522 Billion Dollars, 140,000 Troops, 4,000 dead is at best a very marginal accomplishment purchased at an incredibly high cost.

In perspective, this conflict has cost the equivalent of $4,500 for every Iraqi and will ultimately cost each US Taxpayer $121,000. Only the most immediate threat to America could ever justify such an expenditure – no such Iraqi threat to America has ever existed, nor is probable in the future.

Argument 3: US Troops in Iraq undermines the legitimacy of the Civilian Iraqi Government and prevents the emergency of a more stable government.

The presence of US Troops in Iraq calls into question the legitimacy of the Iraqi Government – and so long as the US is in Iraq and co-operating with the Iraqi Government, that government will always remain seen as a puppet of the US administration. Only if the US withdraws – and that government – or any other government – has established authority independent of foreign interests and foreign help – will that government have widespread Iraqi support. No matter what the US does, and no matter how helpful or construction the US efforts may be in Iraq, that same US presence undermines popular support for the Iraqi government.

The US Military Presence in Iraq allows for a high level of US diplomatic influence in Iraq.

Consider the US handling of the fervent anti-American cleric Muqtada al-Sadr and his Mahdi Army : A firebrand opposition to Saddam Hussein (although he is now branded a Terrorist by the US Administration) he would likely have formed the government long ago, but with US influence, he has consistently been denied that role – or any other litigate role within the Iraqi government – because the US did not like his Islamic Republic leanings. The US Military Presence allows for censorship (the US shut down al-Sadr press and outlawed his Mahdi Militia) and subsequently hand-picking of only approved political movements and parties; it is here that all Iraqi political opposition, once banned, drift into increasingly radical positions – a common axiom in the Middle East : Once your political party is made illegal, it will usually and very quickly becomes quite radical – US action remains largely to blame for the fact al-Sadr’s and his supports are outside of, and now opposed to, the Iraqi Government. US interference consistently turns potential supporters into instant enemies.

In this sense, the US Military makes it too easy for US political interference in Iraq, and prevents the emergence of a more representative government. There is a danger that, in time, it is quite possible that the US will put yet another 1 bullet regime in power in Bagdad (and will find by then it necessary to fully suppress all political support for an Islamic Republic). The US Military makes it more likely that the US will find themselves, like the French in Algeria in the 1960’s, engaged in a war against the majority of Iraqi citizens. If is for this reason that the sooner that the American Military goes home, the faster that the Iraqis will have control of their own government, and that government will be forced into maturity – like Iran after the US backed Shaw departed for Mexico– Iraq will eventually become calmer, less radical and more stable.

Argument 4 : The US Troops in Iraq legitimize Iraqi Terrorism and Foreign Involvement

The US Forces in Iraq are a magnet for Islamic Radicals – and are pretty much a lightning rod for the ever evolving Terrorist Groups who make their mark by attacking American Forces and their proxies. Removing the US Forces will remove any remaining legitimately seen in the eyes of the Iraqi population for the Terrorist Groups – the general fear and hatred that the Iraqi’s feel for foreign and home-grown terrorists will increase, and the average Iraqi tolerance for terrorists (already pretty low) will become even less so. With Western Targets removed, it will become increasingly difficult for Terrorists to find support for their operations in Iraq: In time Terrorists attacks in Iraq will diminish.

Iran’s involvement in Iraq – although at a fraction of the US involvement – will no longer be required, as Iranian support for Shia interests (largely supplied by Iranian citizens with a blind-eye by the Iranian Government) will no longer be required. These interests are supported not by a desire to thwart the Iraqi Governments, but rather out of the general fear that the US presence in Iraq may eventually lead to the Invasion of Iran. Remove the US Military and these fears will have no legitimacy, and with it the low level support for Iranian influence in Iraq will disappear.

Argument 5 : Continued US Troop presence in Iraq will in time demand both a Political and Military Defense; new objectives and directives, which will cause the US Military to become a liability to United States Interests.

The media stated objective of the US led invasion of Iraq was the removal of Saddam Hussein; objectives that included the end of the Iraqi Embargo, and end of the Sunni Bathists suppression of Iraq’s Shea and Kurdish citizens, and the end of the threat of WMD. These objectives being accomplished, the continued presence of US Troops has already required new objectives and reasons; additional new soft objectives - ‘democracy for Iraqis’ and ‘security for Iraqis’ – and now that these are also half accomplished, again require an even greater effort in Washington to satisfy the American Public with further justifications. Continued US Presence in Iraq demands a correspondly greater ‘gains for Iraqis’ or alternately greater ‘defense against threats’.

US presense in Iraq likely scares the b’jees out of Iran – and provides considerable incentive for Iran to at least claim to have a Thermonuclear program -

The real objective of the Bush Administration was to secure a US ‘Pax Americana’ in the Middle East; and that is the problem, because the real objective (secure and then keep a US Military presence in Iraq) is completely at odds with all media explanations for the US Military that have been offered to date..

Because additional US Military Gains in Iraq are highly unlikely; as no greater stability in Iraq is likely until after the US is gone, the US Administration will not find other benign causes du jour in Iraq that justify the US Military – and so the justification for the US Military will shift to ‘threat-based’ logic.

The only significant US asset currently threatened in the Middle East is none other than the US Military.

The US Military Presence in Iraq will require an entirely new explanation 10 years from now; an explanation that will be ‘threat’ based and will have little in common with any of the original objectives stated to the media in 2003. It will no longer be enough to issue vague statements ‘the job in Iraq is not yet done’ – much more substantial and harder justifications will be needed.

Current doctrine continues to find outside terrorist influences as the cause of continual Iraqi unrest – and that doctrine is today focused upon Iran. In time, when the US death count passes the 10,000 mark, the US will find reason to expand efforts into other countries – and a stage for military raids into Syria and Iran is currently being set: None of these efforts make any sense in terms of US security, as all are about protecting US military personnel on the ground in Iraq : The danger is that protecting the US Military will become the Focus of American Foreign Policy, not the other way around, where the US Military is one of may Instruments of American Foreign Policy.

One does not put a military in the field just so that one has to defend that military – and yet that seems to be the general drift of American Military Policy at the moment – something that completely obscures any of Carl von Clausewitz’s ideas associated with a strategic alliance of military and diplomacy.

Argument 6: The US Troop presence in Iraq provides World Wide Media Coverage counter to US Interests.

Every aspiring left-wing journalist or political leader in the world – from Jack Layton to Italian Journalists – can easily point to the United States and find fault – easy shots that allow for media exposure with little risk : all of which have a disastrous public relations effect upon United States Influence, economic interests, and alienate the Unite States from it’s traditional long-term economic and political allies. The fall-out between France and the United States; traditional supporters of each others values since 1776, is one such example of how destructive the Iraqi intervention has been to United Sates interests.

US Interests in Europe are considerable – a 1 Trillion dollar Trade, the largest trade correspondence in the world remains a diplomatic quagmire as US and European Diplomats try to defend this economic engine to a public that increasingly is alienated to the Unite States. The future of the US economic engine depends to a large extent upon the success of it’s international trade – and US interventions in Iraq do not resonate positively with the voters on the streets of Paris, Lisbon, Brussels, Frankfurt : Voters who must ultimately support these trading policies.

Negative Publicity does not have to include fact to be effective – and significant international trade disruptions are at risk. The US is able to see this in the case of China and Tibet, but still very unlikely to see that this same may be applied back to it.

If the United States looses, through unfavorable trade rulings, probations and other actions – it’s trade relationship with it’s allies – than the US economy (which depends upon a strong export and import market) has the potential of a 20 percent or greater reduction. Yet every step of the way, US Foreign polity increased the difficulty of US Trade initiatives and diplomatic efforts to expand and open markets -

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jeff, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:27:43 GMT

I'm amazed to see how many people are not the dumb sheep the elite ruling class thinks we all are!

It's not Iran that invaded Canada and then Mexico as a strategic move to invade the USA next.

It's funny how the gov. made up this "domino theory" about communism in South East Asia. But the real domino facts is what the USA is doing with its conspired UN agenda to take over the world.

The real enemy to the people of Iraq, Iran, China, Africa, USA, and every where in the world is the money manipulators. The international bankers. The less that 3% of the population who own and control the world.

Your tyranny won't last. It never has in the past. One of these days the rest of the people in the world will wake up and we will defeat you, just as has cycled through out history.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bill Montgomery, Kansas City, MO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:32:36 GMT

I am disgusted that 90 percent of you call yourselves Americans. Judging Iraq from the comfort of your lazyboys and french vanilla cappuccinos. I have been to Iraq twice, and not every Iraqi but most are grateful for what we have done for them. You enjoy your freedoms but not care for others. I have friends that have died for this cause. Shame on you. We might have gone for the wrong reasons. But we are there now.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jeff — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:35:38 GMT

Most of you please need to live in the present and stop be so ignorant as to think that the US can just pack up and leave. That would be a bigger injustice that invading in the first place. You need to think of the current cause of violence in Iraq. It certainly isn't the troops.

Please take a step back and look at the probably cause of current violence. Iran just might have something to gain by seeing the US lose....don't you think?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Sam, Lincoln, Nebraska — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:39:00 GMT

Iran is a problem if we plan to stay in Iraq for 50 years.

Are we finally calling Iraq an occupation, or is it still a liberation?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Nick Moraitis, Brookpark, OH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:40:30 GMT

I agree with Bill Greaves. The biggest problem in Iraq is America.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Nick Moraitis, Brookpark, OH — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:41:13 GMT

I agree with Bill Greaves. The biggest problem in Iraq is America.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

K B, Oklahoma — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:42:18 GMT

P Issaquah,J Jacobsen, etal have it right. Iran has been a problem for Iraq LONG before the US ever invaded. People please remember the HUNDREDS of thousands of people Saddams killed in mass genocides before the US invasion. Did we not have a responsibility to end his reign? Oh for you liberal Left, if forgot, it's only humanitarian if a Democrat does it. Bush was accused of going after the oil but we he didn't, now the Dems want the oil to pay for the war. Isn't that a bit two-faced? The US isn't the problem!!! A very LARGE majority of the Iraqis have been helped by the US forces. This is a FACT. They have electricity, water, schools, medical care access, restored wetlands, etc. that they didn't have under Saddam. This is the stuff you DON'T see on main stream media. Find the facts. As far as the death toll, I mourn for every soldier and civilian lost and I pray for their loved ones, but the toll is hardly any different than during non-war years under Clinton, check the records. Unfortunately, they are hardly more at risk than they would be in some of our cities such as DC or Detroit, and that's a sad fact. Many of our soldiers find great satisfaction in the GOOD work they are doing that is NOT combat related. It is Iran that is funneling combat related arms into Iraq and keeping the insurgents going which is keeping the danger levels up for our troops. It's Iran that keeps posturing in the media threatening the US and Isreal. Yes, Iran is a major problem. Even some of the Iraqi factions have realized that the divisiveness has hurt Iraq and have started talks with the US instead of fighting. They realize Al Qaeda and others are not really helping them. When you get over you left wing anger, you will realize the US is really doing some good over there. And considering the history of turmoil in that region, that's saying something.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Joe, CS, CO — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:42:26 GMT

I wonder what most of you that post to this blog thought the day after 9/11? I also wonder about the ones quoting scripture. Do you remember who put G.W. Bush in office? Have many of you really studied the politics and out comes of this area? Example, Afghanistan. Watch Charlie Wilson's War. This might tell you why we are still in Iraq. We created a problem, then maybe not, and we need to fix it. Looking at nothing else, one could say we are the problem in Iraq, but that's not the case. Iran is suppling weapons that are killing are sons and daughters while we are trying to clean the Iraq mess up. Iran is a major problem at this point in time

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Robert J M,North Mankato, MN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:43:31 GMT

In my view even a blind one legged goat can see what is going to happen.

One of the courses at the Strategic War College is Map Reading, and also a combined lesson in Geo-Politics and Economics.

If one withdraws one's head from small-box thinking and peers about one might just observe the the other superpower in the region, who has more to gain and more to lose has remained benignly neutral.

Russia is, as the crow flies, 210 miles from Iran, 530 miles from Teheran and 550 miles from Bagdad and as Hitler noted in a previous local dispute it is a straight shot from Moscow even by goat. A great deal of New Russia's prosperity is enhanced by our meddling in the Middle East. They are getting paid to sit and watch the present American Fire Drill, much to their amusement, knowing full well they are in the "CatBird Seat", they are there and they are loaded for bear. If Russia nuked Iran what would we say? Thank you! I would also venture that there are fewer Israeli spies in Russia than there are in the United States. The sooner we up stakes and redeploy the sooner we can Save Our Soul.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bill, Denver, CO. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:43:56 GMT

Bush and Blair, with there notorious gang of Oil desperadoes [ Exxon, Chevron, BP, Others ] caused many problems in the Middle East, being good PUPPETS made Billions of Dollars for there part as DESPERADOS . A small amount to PUPPET OWNERS " OPEC " who made ZILLIONS of dollars.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Johnson, Las Vegas, Nevada — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:44:44 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq? The war criminals leading our nation (Democrats and Republican alike)are the problem in Iraq. Bring our troops home now! Hold our leaders resopnsible for the slaughter committed (in our name with our hard earned money) in Iraq.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

VRW, Long Beach, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:46:40 GMT

The questioned posed: Is Iran the problem in Irag. The responds invoke that phantom creature that none believes exist. The USG back when it was that magical 13 colonies stated that they wanted nothing to do with Him. Iran is not the problem in Iraq nor is the US. All of you who proclaim to have some faith and quote parables; the story goes "don't put your faith in men." Having faith as a US citizen is a hobby. God was not consulted to vet "W" and you didn't ask His permission to invade Iraq. So you sew, so you reap. Besides we will die. We simply don't get to pick the day, time or place. Let the war rage. Death to all involved. Create more space for the rest of us. It is crowd here.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

DON T., VOORHEES, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:46:47 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq (or any other country for that matter) is the U.S. We do not belong on another country's soil as a military force. Why on earth are we still in Germany? We are not supposed to be conquerors, but yet that is how the rest of the world views us now. We spend billions of dollars every year occupying other countries, when things at home are the worst they've ever been. Maybe North Korea has it right, being a recluse nation. No one gets in and no one gets out without permission. What we need to do is bring all our soldiers home from all over the world and use them to sure up our borders, inspect all cargo that comes in, and throw out the undesirerables who would harm our country. This would save us billions of dollars that could be used to feed and shelter our poor and correct the educational system. Strength is built from within, but we are falling apart and spending like we have all the oil. We have no one to blame but ourselves. We elected an oil-man cowboy wannabe.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ed — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:47:03 GMT

Obviously the biggest problem in Iraq is the occupier - US. Since "We've pretty much defeated al-Qaida here," - what's the reason for staying? The reason is that the neo-con leadership of this country thinks that they own Iraq and will keep making up excuses to stay until we the people replace them (Obama).

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Carmelo Burgaretta, NJ — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:47:10 GMT

the problem is the USA by invading a country that was not a treat to us or had anything to do wth 911.
The question should be what we would have done if China or Russia invaded Canada or Mexico? I'm sure we would have accomidated the invaders

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John Doe, Seattle, Washington — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:49:38 GMT

NO, BUSH IS!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

tvb — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:50:41 GMT

Amercia and our military have alrteady won the war, we did what we said we would do. We should get out when we are asked to leave. As for Iran, isnt it blatantly obvious that they have been itching for a fight with the US since the 70's and the fall of the Shah? They have attacked us, goaded us and all but bombed our borders... they are aching for a fight. We are doing a supurb job in Iraq and we should absolutely deal with Iran on this topic. If they wont listen to reason what else should we do? Do we have anything to bring to the table? All we would do was deploy manpower and assets to fight Iran, in doing so Iraq would be free to build its infrastructure and form peace.. We absolutely have the assets to fight them.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tim Burch, Endicott, NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:51:19 GMT

Why are people involving religion in Iraq?

It's a war, for Pete's sake. Let's do what we have to do to protect democracy and freedom, and then get out.

I, for one, belive this country won't last much longer (United States). We're starting to become aware that if you give a human too much freedom, he will abuse it -- revolution is coming.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

H. Franco, Chicago IL — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 19:58:06 GMT

Hello people, why do we think that Iran is a bigger problem. Lets think for a minute beside the Bush adminstration and the media make it to be. Lets read our history and theirs, it seems to me that the only person who is ready and always wants to fight for right or wrong is our president, Mr. Bush. Thats see how many times that Iran did strike us or strike any of our interest in the world. The only evidence that we have is that that comes from Washington. On the other hand we shoot down one of their commerical airlines in their terrority killing more than 200 hundred civilians on that airlines. Our navy mistakeing took it for a fighter jet. That is a mistake we keep on making like Iraq and Afghanistan. Friendly fire. People, we are losing misserable in Iraq. Alot of our brave soliders dying for a lie that was generaded by the Bush admin. We when to the war in Iraq against the United Nations and the whole world. I think the key issue should be increaseing the value of the dollar, decreaseing the defict, decreaseing the gas and food price, increaseing the job employment, increaseing jobs. Irag needs to sell their oil and we have the money to buy it. Lets sit and negoiate with them and not start a third war when we are already in two of them with no end in sight. Lets be smart about it. Lets safe thousands of lives. Think people think, why are we really wanting to start a war with Iran?? Peace on Earth.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

steve-o — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:01:56 GMT

We should nuke that whole area and be done with it

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Brian B Beechy sk can — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:02:21 GMT

a tatical nuclear first strike on Iran ? its idiotic thinking like this that makes the u.s. a rogue nation on its way to bankruptcy.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Bob, Rockwall, Texas — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:02:25 GMT

I am UTTERLY AMAZED at how many people claim the US is the problem! People, WAKE UP! If the US does what you say we should (pull out & leave it to Iraq/Iran/etc to settle) then IRAN WINS. If Iran wins, all the countries in the middle east will fall into line with Iran, and the oil supply to the US will STOP. I didn't say prices would go up exponentially, I said STOP! The US politicians need to be focused on how to make the US energy-independent ASAP and make it stick. Our economy, and ultimately the world economy, will crash around us without oil supplies. Then what will we do with our highways, motor vehicles, housing crisis, etc.? Let's come to our senses & make our politicians EARN the obscenely high benefits we allow them to take.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Rob G. Waipahu Hi — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:04:33 GMT

It's amazing that everybody has different opinion on who is responsible on iraqs problem. What I can say is if U.S was to invade Iran then this will be the starting of World War III. Iran, North Korea, Russia, China,Syria, Lebanon and all countries that don't get along with the United Sates will combined forces and will declare war against U.S and its allies. It's like GOD VS. ALLAH and of course GOD will win...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

The Truth Hurts — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:07:32 GMT

I see that so many of you bleeding heart liberals have taken to Isolationism, well folks that is what bred Nazi Germany, the world sat by and watched Hitler gain power and build his army, then attempted to give in to him, only to have him turn around invade Poland and start a world war, history always repeats itself. Remember that one nuclear missle is all that it would take to destroy Israel, are the armchair QB democrats in here taking the positioning of abadoning Israel?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve Duvall — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:09:26 GMT

What amazes me is how we Americans turn this thing into a present day contest. The Persians (now the Iranians) fought the Ottoman Empire (now Turkey) for 400 years over control of this area in a religious war of Shites (Persians) versus Sunnis (the Turks). Turkey lost WWI and thus some territories (not countries) that they used to control were made into countries, created by lines drawn in the sand by mainly British and French generals. Iraq was created in 1922 (so was what is now called Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan). Iran thinks that much of Iraq is theirs. They have fought for it longer than the USA has been a nation. They are not going away. And now with a Shite government in Iraq they are really not going away. So we think that we can solve this thing in a year or two - which has now become the prospect to some of our non-historical politicians as five to ten more years?? A knowledge of some history in regard to the area would be of some real help. Bush and his advisors totally ignored that factor (and they continue to ignore it). We had 20,000 - 40,000 troops in Kuwait for a set of years. We are going to have troops in the general area for a long time. But there is going to be no victory in Iraq. Before the 1920's there was no Iraq. We are paying 6 billion (?) dollars a month to hold together three groups or people in the area that have little in common with each other. The Sunni Kurds, the Sunni Arabs, and the Shite Arabs will have at it as soon as we get out of the way. The Islamic friends (?) we have in the area (Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia) are all Sunni. They have litle intention of letting a Shite government in Bagdad dominate Sunni lands. We need to move a little more over to the side lines, stop spending our dollars on building up Iraq's infrastructure, and play the balance of power role in the area which the British did around the world very successfully for centuries. We need our dollars spent here on our infrastructure, and we need to stop losing our troops arms, legs, and lives in that quick sand area over there. It is false history and false politics to talk about staying or going. The point is how we stay in the area, not if. And the other point is that we do not need to expend all this energy to preserve a nation that was just created in the 20th century - by Europeans who mixed groups together who just don't fit together.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve, Rock Hill, SC — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:10:09 GMT

So, this year the Bush Administration says it's all Iran's fault. When they succeed in starting their next war will we hear that it is all Syria's fault?

Then all Hamas' fault?

Then all Russia's fault?

This is just another round of alibis' from the team that has bungled the occupation of Iraq from day one.

And why do our supposedly "independent" press parrot this, time after time, without question? Are they too lazy to get the facts from other than Pentagon approved sources? Or are they naturally lap dogs?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Charles Elliott, Baton Rouge Louisiana — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:11:26 GMT

Ask not what the Iranians have done to us/U.S. but what we (the U.S. gov't) has done to the Iranians over the years: bad intent, bad action, bad policy. Please take the time to read up (and think out)what has really happened in history before you start calling for a war against Iran. Such a war would be so bad for so many reasons, but chiefly because it is not in our national interests to do so. Imbeded journalists, army OFFICERS, and arm chair patriots should not join our ignorant, arrogant and incompetent administration in getting us into another losing war. All this saber rattling is so questionable as to be treasonable.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Sad American — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:14:39 GMT

I know exactly whats going on...articles like this are just warming us up for an invasion of Iran..WAKE UP!!!! They have already decided that we are going to war with them, they just need to ease the US people into it...2012 is coming people. Do your homework and stop beleiving the lies.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

BEN FRANKLIN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:17:37 GMT

Why do the American people and “their” representatives in Congress continue to tolerate a criminal Bush Regime that uses lies and propaganda to mask its acts of naked aggression, war crimes under the Nuremberg standard?

Why does the rest of the world continue to receive political representatives from a war criminal government?

What if the rest of the world told the US to close its bases, its embassies, its CIA operations and to go home?

Self-righteous Americans would regard such demands as effrontery! We own the world.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

El Tino — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:21:45 GMT

It is all very simple we live on a planet which is divided into seven pieces of land we call continents. Dating back to when Christ himself walked on earth one of those continents (europe) has been exploting the others for their natural resources and ultimately world domination. America along with Canada and Australia lead the way for that continued exploitation. Why is it that the truly great historical figures Christ ,Ghandi, M.L.K. JR, Mandela have all fought against some part of Europe? Saddam had to be taken out because he was giving $25000 to the family of Palestinian suicide bombers as well as euro-american need/greed for the Iraqui people's resources. Nothing new

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dave P — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:22:57 GMT

We have the capability to take out the ruthless heads of state or stop any country from raging war with US without harming a hair on anyone but we have to stop thinking about what other countries will think of us if we did use this kind weapon or weapons. Lets stop fighting the conventual war & win this for once & all.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

DAN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:22:58 GMT

THE UNITED STATES IN IRAQ IS THE BIGGEST PROBLEM. IRAQ DID NOTHING TO THE UNITED STATES EXCEPT HAVE THE GALL TO LOCATE THEIR COUNTRY ON TOP OF A SH IT LOAD OF OIL. WHY SHOULD OUR GUYS COME HOME IN BODY BAGS AND WOUNDED PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY FOR LIFE BECAUSE OF OIL.

WHERE THE HELL IS THE CAUSE OF 9/11 ?
OSAMA BIN LADEN - AKA PROTECTED PERSON BY ORDER OF GEORGE THE AMERICAN IDIOT BUSH

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

tommie — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:28:36 GMT

America is hurting this world. Other posts may be factual, but this is one is emotional. Ilive broken hearted over the wars my country wages in the name of God, Freedom, Love, Peace...etc. But it is not only the wars. Violence against women is epidemic in this country and there is no valid reason for a man waging war against a woman he claims to love or against his and her children.
World Peace can only come when violence against women ends and becomes repulsive to humanity. And violence against women is not just physical; it is emotional, psychological and spiritual too. Words that make a woman feel less than the man to whom she gives her love are violence.
ALL war is politically motivated. The terrorist may be a real threat but to use that threat to weaken American Citizens' civil rights and human rights is unspeakable. I did not choose to sacrifice my rights to defend against terrorism.

There is a short leap from violence against women to violence against nations. There is a short leap from war to violence against women---and choldren. In war, women and children get raped and murdered. There is no such thing as a war that does not kill non-combatants.

THE VIOLENCE AND STRESS IN THIS WORLD IS ONE OF THE CAUSES OF THE DESTRUCTION OF THE EARTH'S ECOLOGY.

IT IS UP TO EACH AND EVERY PERSON IN THIS WORLD TO CHOOSE: DO WE WANT VIOLENCE TO CONTINUE?
OR
DO WE SWEAR IT OFF?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Geza Path, Claremont, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:28:55 GMT

The biggest problem is Israel. We bleed US blood and waste US billions to simply do Israel's bidding. Iraq was a huge thorn in their paw, funding suicide bombers and their families, and generally being a nuisance.

What to do? Send us there to get rid of "An Evil Dictator", as if that alone is justification for the costs of this folly. Then, when we get there we adopt Israel's policies - build a giant wall separating neighborhoods, whack whoever we think is an "insurgent" with satellite supported, drone delivered, US taxpayer paid massive munitions, and leave thousands of innocents dead.

We get control of large reserves of oil and permanent bases, and fabricate an economy so that our middle classes will think that they still have a chicken in their pot, even though the car in their garage is too expensive to drive.

And now, not to be outdone, we focus on Iran. Again, Iran is a big thorn in Israel's hide because of their support of Hezbolla - a freely and democratically elected governing body, by the way. And let's not forget all of the oil in Iran’s fields, and can't you see that housing prices are falling?

Of course we have to invade Iran. It's for our own good, right? Look to who is profiting from this debacle and you will find those most responsible. At the least we should be putting Bush, Cheney and their band of neo-con traitors on trial.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Patrick in Ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:32:49 GMT

No the biggest problem in Iraq is the media. They sensationalize everything to get people whipped up into a frenzy. They no longer report based upon content but upon their political leaning. How about just reporting the facts and leaving the people to decide how things are going.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Pacheck, Huntington Beach, Ca. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:33:46 GMT

WE attacked Iraq and occupied their nation. WE are actively persuing war with Iran. WE got our lunch handed to us in Viet Nam & Somolia. WE got kicked out of Lebenon and Saudi Arabia. As agressors we suck.
As defenders of our country (Japan, Germany) we as a nation rose to the occasion. The problem is we sell guns and planes. That is how our economy is based.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Paul, Omaha, NE — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:36:30 GMT

Iran has their "Own Interests" in mind in Iraq. It may be time to take our money, our spent treasure and invest it in OUR defense. However, we have a congress and Senate that cannot seal our boarders, fix social security, medicare, perscription drugs. Lets not blame Bush, lets blame each other. Term Limits, we need term limits. It is the only way we can ever hope to have concerned citizens working on our behalf.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Joe, West Virginia — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:36:50 GMT

What ever happened to rational thinking? Why do they call it common sense when it isn't very common? Who decided that the U.S. had to be the peace keepers of the world? If you butt into someone's business, then you can expect trouble. When I was 18 my buddy and I was returning home from a concert down an old country road. I learned a big lesson on that foggy night. We happened upon a husband beating his wife in the middle of the road and stopped to help her. They were drunk out of their minds. We had to deal not just with this man, but with his wife. She turned on us like a wild cat. Lesson learned! Be careful whose business you put your nose into or might regret it. Farm life gives a person a lot of horse sense. I remember stirring up a hornet's nest and learned to never do it again. If you want to get rid of those darn things, then you had better do it right or suffer the consequence. What has all I have said got to do with Iran and Iraq? The U.S. should mind its own business and stay out of family feuds. If we have to stirr up a hornets nest, then we better kill all the hornets or we'll suffer. I vote to minding our own business. Hornets are hardy and sometimes come back with a vengence.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Brian P, Grove, OK — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:40:05 GMT

Regarding the "Flavor of the month" comment: I recall a George W speech circa 2003 where he named his "Axis of Evil" including Iran, Syria and North Korea. Seems like this has been on the radar for some time?

Regarding the NUMEROUS comments regarding what a mistake the war is and how quickly we should withdraw: George W said (in approximately 2002), "We can fight this war on THIER streets or OURS. We got a taste of what fighting on our streets felt like on September 11, 2001--most of us didn't like it. Most reasonable people would prefer to fight this war on Middle Eastern streets with people who are trained and paid to fight for us. If we withdraw (and place our heads securely back in the sand) the radical islamist will be MORE than happy to bring the war back to us.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

taylor — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:41:48 GMT

Iran wants nukes so it can protect itself from a USA / Israeli attack. the real story is that Israel - who stole nuke secrets from the US likes being the only nuke power in the region. problem is they - israel have started this arms race. Iran if it gets a basic nuke knows it cant use it. Like Pakistan - another radical muslim nation - it (Iran) wants to be left alone. In this world only a nuke can insure that the USA and/or Israel will leave you alone. War with Iran is a lie perpetrated by zionists and conservative Christians who want Israel and Jews to be dominant for religious reasons. It is not based on reality

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Josh — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:42:45 GMT

Let's not forget that in the 80's when the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan, we armed and trained the afghan militia's to kill the invading Russian forces. Our country is being hypocritical now on this.Now Iran is doing what we did if what our administration says is true. We reap what we sow.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

gil villagran, laredo, tx — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:42:49 GMT

The main problem in Iraq is, and has been ..... BUSH.

From the get go we had no business starting a war to stop Sadam from using weapons of mass destruction that did not exist, and to stop "terrorists" that were not there before we invaded, and to "Democratize" a group of people that hate each other.

Now that's a problem that even the Iranians could not have given us in a million years. We are our worst enemy in electing a man that had no business (or itellect) to be the President of our country.

We are just paying the consecuences, and OH yes blaming the latest escape goat, the Iranians for our continuing problems in Iraq.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

lnp, leonardtown, maryland, usa — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:43:24 GMT

Dear Richard,

I see Ms. Lisa McNeil from Alpharetta, Georgia hasn't posted, yet! Ha, ha. We frequently post on Daily Nightly. I have been so busy plowing through the venom spewed Brian Williams' way recently, that I am just seeing your blog. Welcome back! (And I see that your comments are a lightning rod, as usual!)

Anyway, I started my morning off by looking at the front page of The Washington Post, which had a photograph of a 2-year-old Iraqi boy being pulled from the rubble of his home in Sadr City. He later died at the hospital from his wounds. The image reminded me of that famous photograph of the firefighter holding the body of the little girl killed in her daycare center, a victim of the Oklahoma City bombing. In the case of the boy in Sadr City, it is alleged that it was U.S. missiles that caused the destruction. I make no judgment - I am just overwhelmed by how very sad and pointless it all is.

A war without borders is a war without end. Generations are raised to hate, and to exact revenge. The names and faces of our enemies keep changing. The cycle continues. Diplomacy is the only answer at this point. If Syria really goes to the table with Israel, as former President Carter asserts they will, then I will believe there is hope for a peace in Iraq, as well. I will believe that anything is possible. As for Iran, they are not going anywhere, unless the people of Iraq decide that is what they want to have happen. It has to be the will of the people. Whatever U.S. forces do or don't do will not have a lasting impact, I believe.

God bless you and keep you safe. You and all of the Baghdad bureau - especially the local contributors, who risk so much to bring you and us the facts of the story.

Laurel

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Marine Grunt — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:45:04 GMT

The problem in Iraq is Bush and it's Zionist neocons by invading a country that was never a treat to us. We attacked Iraq because Saddam didn't cowed to the USA and was building it's military to keep Israel on check and by supporting the Palestinians struggle against the Israel oppressive occupation.
Basically American service men & women wiil continue to die for Israel

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

e Allen — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:49:01 GMT

What a bunch of bleeding heart liberals!!!! People need to wake and smell the roses. We aren't going to sit down at the kitchen table with Iran or Al-Qaide and work out our differences. If you believe we can then my generation will see the fall of this Great Nation!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Anonymous, Boise, ID — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:51:07 GMT

"...ESCALATE THE WAR AGAINST FANATICAL RELIGIOUS PEOPLE THAT THEIR MAIN REASON TO LIVE, IS TO DIE."

Isn't that very similar to the Christian religion among many others? Don't Christians believe that everything they go through on Earth is nothing compared to their afterlife? Call me crazy, but that sounds the same. As for the biggest problem, I have to agree with what seemed to be the majority in this case. The fact that the US is still in Iraq is the problem. This isn't a war that can be won. It never has been, and never will be. The only thing that's guaranteed is that there will be a new generation in Iraq that hates the US and its allies. Wouldn't you if the tables were turned? What would you do if soldiers from another country came to your city, bombed it, then treated your family like they were insurgents? By the way, I am in no way blaming the soldiers for doing their job. I fully understand that they have to do what keeps them alive. But it's time for US citizens to put an end to this senseless war. One way or another...

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Reza — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:52:02 GMT

US goes to Iran's backyard and expects the Iranian to
sit back and say or do nothing. Americans live in LA LA land and have no concept of reality. what would US do if someone invaded Canada?
And for those ho call for nuking Iran, YOU ARE AN IDIOT, JUST LIKE YOUR PRESIDENT.
GOD bless the world and not just America.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

lyle, topeka, ks. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:52:29 GMT

why do WE have to rebuild it.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Pete Hainey — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:46:52 GMT

Good God! Reading some of these blogs is really painful! The right-wingers who want to bomb Iran can't spell, use 3rd-grade grammar and show signs of mental illness. Can't you use some kind of intelligence test to stop these mental midgets from writing to your site?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Randy C. Ct. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:47:51 GMT

Yeah! it isn't like we overthrew Iran's goverment or armed and played both sides in the Iran/Iraq. Why would they ever not like us I just can't imagine

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Paul Chesire — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:49:56 GMT

Iran is the biggest problem and needs to be taken out asap. We should start with a bombing run on their electrical grid.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

DanN — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:50:38 GMT

This is a chess game and many here are good at checkers..and have no patience. Our opponents are and always have been Iran and Al-Queda. Our initial move was bold but clumsy..hit 2 countries without a good plan for the countermove. Level Al-Queda and flank Iran with democracies to pressure its citizens to revolt. We actually did finally flank Iran with weak democracies and level Al-Queda in Afganistan and later there rally point, Iraq. But AQ re-rallied in Pakistan and plays on. Iran's counter move was quite bold..counter attack in Iraq, Lebannon, and Gaza..through Hamas, Quds force, Syrian, and Hezbollah surrogates.

Here, we can pull out of Iraq and conceed the game..because we prefer checkers. You are certainly fooling yourself to think Iraq will hold if we leave now. It will be split between Iran and Al-Queada and be lost for a generation. The US will never be trusted as an ally in the middle east. Emergence of vastly wealthy, nuclear equipped Islamic fundemenatlist axis. But other options are high stakes chess for sure, costly, dangerous.

Option B..bold counter move. We must be willing to flat out hit Al-Quead in N. Pakistan/Wazerestan at will..infiltrate with special dark ops/CIA, hit with Hellfire equipped drones day and night. Face the music telling Pakistan we will continue until they declare war on us or the problems stop. I bet they do not choose war (but they might). In Iraq, we move everything we can afford to keep in the region and about 1000 Predator drones (need to make some fast) to the Iran/Syria borders & shut em down. Let Iraqi forces settle the internal problems free of outside influence. Press allies to do the same with the Lebanon border. Confront allies with all the evidence of Iranian influence and tell them it is put up or shut up time. Israel can deal with Gaza but it will definately stir the pot. Multi pronged counter attack on Iran will drain there resources but the problem is their vast petrodollar wealth. Will keep them going a long time unless we shut off the funds..at the banking/trade level. Will need EU, Chinese, Russian cooperation. Russian being the most difficult to achieve. What they want most...reconsolidate the Balkan states. Price we would have to pay...stop supporting them. Result - return of old cold war axis to eliminate Islamic fundamentalist axis..

Tough choice..but the old USSR is starting to look better to me..

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John, Sacramento, CA — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:52:00 GMT

Someone above brings up a good point about destabilizing Iran from within via support of groups that oppose the current Iranian regime. There must be someone. Has the Bush Administration ever looked into this option? This should have been the path taken in getting rid of Saddam, not outright invasion as sadly what happened. Maybe we can get it right this time in controlling Iraq........

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

E. Johnson — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:52:40 GMT

Biggest problem for Iraq is that America is still there after ALL THESE YEARS, and Iraqis don't won't Americans there. It is sad, but true.

Because of this situation, more young innocent Americans, and Iraqi citizens with no political connection to the war, will be killed, hurt and homeless. It is an unethical and terrible situation for anyone to face. And, yes, our veterans are returning to America to face home foreclosures, no places to live, no good health care and treatment, no jobs, etc. What are we doing to ourselves and how can other countries respect our positions in the world? It is so, so sad.

My grandfather, father, brothers and son served in wars for America and its liberating and other such causes, only to return to America with no positive situations. They had to fight for everything they needed and wanted in life.

My son left Iraq in 2006 and sitll can't find a decent paying job or anyone who will hire him for such jobs. He has to live with us, his parents, because his income is too low and housing costs are too high to make ends meet. He tried living on his own, but the costs were too hign and he returned home. He took little, low paying jobs just to make some money to live on.

I am not only angry, but hurt. For this election year, I will demand that veterans get the utmost treatment in housing, jobs, etc. They earned it and deserve it. They stood up and protected this country and this country should do the same for them. This goes for all veterans, regardless of race, maritial status, gender, religion, ethnic group, etc. I am also tired of America helping some veterans and not others, seeminly based on some of the above criteria. This country has to stop it.

Barack Obama said it very early, and before congress voted to go to war, that America should not go to war in Iraq based on the information provided by the Bush administration and others. He went for what was right than voting go appease his friends and collegues in congress. He was looking out for America's interest and its citizens.

I totally agree with Obama. Now, America needs to get out. I have faith that Obama will get our sons, daughters, fathers, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, grandfathers, and others back home as soon as possible. He will also work out a deal that will be beneficial to the Iraqi people, who are also hurt in this matter, many who are not terrorists or threats to America. Obama has the vision and the plan to get us through this matter.

Vote Obama.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jimmy, in the Buckeye State! — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:55:30 GMT

Nearly 6 BILLION a month wasted in and on Iraq, and the best we can get for our investment is a quagmire of lies and dead people? YAY for big government that makes it's own rules as it goes along, and totally ignores the Constitution and Bill of Rights, and even repeals the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 to continue headlong down the path that leads to our destruction?

Terrorism is working for George W. Bush exactly like it worked for Adolf Hitler and the Nazi's.

Excuse me: I wanted to write so much more, but I must excuse myself to go puke now.

BAGDAD=BABYLON=CONFUSION. Always has, Always will.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dave, Ohio — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:56:22 GMT

Are these the same "unbiased" military correspondents that the major networks are using?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Tina from NY — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:58:03 GMT

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 21:58:09 GMT

Problem is Israel not Iran, Take the nukes from Israel and none of the countries in the region will go nuclear. Stop defending Israel. No one condemn the Israel air strike in Syria but we are supporting all their actions.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

peter ford, los angles, california — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:14:21 GMT

Of course Iran is helping destabalize Iraq. They are the enemies of the Arabs. They are Persian and would love to take over the region again. This is not something new to either the Iraqi's or Iranians. This is a war that has also been going on for a thousand year and more. The Sunni Shia hatred for each other has crossed more time than the western world has been civilized.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

mohamed ali — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:21:45 GMT

iraq was the only democratic country in the region because saddam , sunni
tariq aziz,christion
al sahaf , shia
no bombings= peace
occupation of us army+ iran militants+private army=
terror of the iraq people and ruin of childs sanity

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jared Coughlin, Minneapolis — Thu, 01 May 2008 09:32:10 GMT

Iran is not the biggest problem in Iraq; the U.S. is the biggest problem in Iraq. George W. Bush deserves to be impeached for the illegal invasion and occupation of Iraq. Bill Clinton was impeached for lying under oath, and while I do not agree with the actions of former President Clinton I believe the actions of President Bush are far more egregious and flagrant. People need to understand that if the United States was invaded tomorrow, every backwoods redneck and hillbilly from Arizona to West Virginia would be up in arms ready to fight the aggressor. So how is it any different when we invade a sovereign nation like Iraq? And then we have the arrogance and audacity to call this terrorism. WAKE UP!! The United States was considered a terrorist and mutinous nation for fighting for its freedom and independence from England. We glorify Paul Revere and the other Massachusetts Minutemen in our children's middle school history books, then we turn around and call others terrorists who try to defend their country. Can anyone be honest enough with themselves to admit our obvious double standards and prejudices. If you think our "forefathers" used 100% lawful means to defend our nation you'll believe anything.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Patricia Stevens — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:12:29 GMT

The biggest problem for Iraq is (and always has been) the United States. We should mind our own business, take care of our people, get better health care, like France has, and use the money we spend for Iraq on the people who are poor and homeless, here. We treat our citizens like dogs, expect them to like it and then tell me they don't love their country if they don't fall in line. This government is a joke! I love my country, but they sure as hell could do better. We are the laughing stock of the world!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

John, Vernon, New Jersey — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:16:11 GMT

And now a reading from Montgomery Ward:

“There is no God but Santa Clause and Rudolph is his Prophet!” Praise be to Santa Clause, blessed be his Prophet Rudolph.

In the beginning there was no X-mas upon the world. Santa Clause upon seeing this was saddened and with his heart of heart he bestowed upon the ill informed uneducated beasts of the land, man, a blessing of X-mas cheer. Praise be to Santa Clause and Praise upon Rudolph his Prophet.

“He who does not keep X-mas cheer shall be stricken from the rolls of nice and placed upon the paper of naughty.” So shall it be written, so shall it be done. Praise to Santa Clause, blessings upon his Prophet Rudolph.

So, taken the preceding good word, we all know that he who fights today will get no visit from Santa Clause tomorrow.

This is the reading of Montgomery Ward, Praise to Santa Clause, blessings upon his Prophet Rudolph.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Sgt Mac — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:23:45 GMT

I am a US Marine stationed in Al Asad Iraq, and I am bored to death. It is so calm here right now it is depressing- I wish they would have sent me to Afghanistan.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

abby, cape town S Africa — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:29:03 GMT

its time US and Britain are made to pay for their lies. Each nation they have invaded should ask the same amount to be paid per person as has been paid for lockerbie indviduals by Libya. and also payment for infra structure

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Michael R, Texas — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:34:10 GMT

You can't control your enemy without controlling his movement. The US can't manage thier own borders so I have no reason to believe that they'll have any success in Irac. The political prostitutes in Washington (dems & repubs) should be too ashamed to continue breathing. Naw, we'll just continue to play the blame game instead of getting the job done quickly and efficiently.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

servicemember, overseas — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:34:15 GMT

According to the article, the boots on the ground say the surge is working. The violence is down. Space for more dialogue has been created - space our troops helped create. We should be encouraging Iran to join in the dialogue, not calling for an immediate and full pull-out and leaving Iraq to its own devices. To do so at this stage would undo all the work our troops have died for, and leave bloody anarchy in it's wake.

George Bush, lies, WMDs, whatever, it's all a sideshow at this point. Sure, be angry, learn from it, vote with your conscious in November. Regardless of the betrayal some feel, the clear and present situation is we're there now, and doing what's right should be our concern... not pointing fingers and shouting from the rooftops, "He lied, we never should've been there!" Duh. That identifies mistakes in the past, but does nothing to improve the present, which is where we need to be focused to move forward. That means making sure these people are safe, making sure democracy can take hold, making sure we're not leaving a mess for someone else to clean up. Once we're gone, there'll be no going back. We get one shot to do this the right way before we split, and I think it would be refreshing to see people concerned with that rather than timetables, body counts, and pull-out dates.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

D Smith — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:37:05 GMT

Iran is the problem in the Middle East, not just Iraq. They arm, train, and to an extent direct both Hezbollah and Hamas. There are indications that they are behind much of the instability in Eygpt. They sell weapons to and train both sides in the both Iraq and Afghanistan because instability in Iraq and embarassment for the US are both in its best interest. There are good indicators that they are serious players in the instability in Pakistan, the Middle East's only current nuclear power. Like the Mafia in America, the Iranian Government, and the Quds Force in particular, have a finger in most of the serious criminal enterprises in the region. From personal observations, the Saudis are terrified of Iran, and with good reason. Iran is the sole serious imperial power in the Middle East. Ignore it at our peril.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

George, Houston — Thu, 01 May 2008 10:46:26 GMT

So based on Peter's brilliant analysis, then lets go after Iran and start all in order. Then, go after Syria and start in order, then Pakistan and so on. This is brilliant! Why no one had thought of yet.
George

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:00:56 GMT

Are there any realists left out there? The option to go back in time to decide if we should or should not invade Iraq is unrealistic. We are there right now and we will be there in 30 to 40 years if we do not finish what we have started. The government is not ready to take on this battle by themselves. I have seen it for myself. I just spent a year working on reconstruction efforts within that country. If we do not give them the support they need Iraq will fall, and it will be worse off then when Saddam was in power. Money needs to be inserted into their economy, because if it isn't the terrorists (probably backed by Iran) use the poverty through out the city to their advantage. Paying widows who have no other way to provide for their families than to put a bomb in the road. I think as life returns to normal for the Iraqi citezens, and people have a way to providing for their families it leaves them less suseptable for buying into extremism. When it comes down to it right now with everything off balance it comes down to survival. It doesn't if their income is from the U.S. or Iran as long as food is put on the table. But while we are waisting our breath this blog doesn't really matter, "It is not the critic who counts, not the one who points out how the strong man stumbled or how the doer of deeds might have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actully in the arena, whose face is marred with sweat and dust and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, if he wins, knows the triumph of high achievement;and who, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold timid souls WHO KNOW NEITHER VICTORY NOR DEFEAT" So I ask you what difference are you making while you point your finger at the Bush Administration?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Steve Osborne, Pittsboro, NC — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:01:18 GMT

For as long as the US controls Iraq's oil revenues while al-Qaeda continues to massacre civilians, there will be insurgents wanting to get their country back.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Rockne Saylorsburg, Pa. — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:04:32 GMT

If Bush said it was 12 noon and my watch said 12 I would want to know who was shining a light in my window at midnight every word that comes out of his mouth is a LIE!!!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Henry B — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:08:53 GMT

Let’s see now....

We armed and made Osama Bin Laden. We gave him training, money and the “Stingers” to fight the Russians.

We helped Saddam Hussein (and probably instigated him) to fight a 10 year war against Iran where thousands of people died and nothing was accomplished.

No we are arming “the sons of Iraq” and we are PAYING them? We are paying mercenaries to kill their own brothers?. How long does anybody think will this last until they turn against us?

Iran is arming the Iraquis who are fighting us? What a joke! So far not only we have not seen one iota of proof but there is no logic to the statement. This is another another WMD scare in the making. In fact, yesterday it was reported that the attack on an army post was performed with acetylene tanks!! The green zone has been attacked by Katyushas missiles; same ones the Palestinian are making in their garages to shoot at Israel. I am sure the Iranians have better weapons than this! I am sure that if the Iranians were suppling these guys, we would see more aircraft shot down, more damage on the green zone, more tanks and vehicles destroyed by shoulder fired missiles.

The truth of the matter is that blaming Iran for our lack of success in subjugating a country sounds much better than saying “those folks do not want us there and are fighting us teeth and nails”. This would rub the wrong way with the public. After all we believe in live free or die!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

james jeffreys, Miami, Florida — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:12:02 GMT

The problem is not Bush, Iran or America but the war itself and the reason why it is fought. Unfortunately many people dont know the reason behind the war. The war is not for control of oil as many may think especially those who wish to politisize it and achieve an upper hand in public relations and political correctness. This is a war of whose God is God. Any success of America in Iraq will be translated as Allah's deafeat, a non starter for jihadists. Iran, Syria, Saudi, Jordan, North Africa states etc have got a great deal of interest in the iraq war because the credibility of Allah is put to test. September 11 proved that whether you like it or not, there are people who want you to either acknowldge Allah or die. This war will not stop until we all either accept allah as the only true God or die. There are many fronts to this war not only military but also through immigrations, economical, political and sometimes an unwittingly help from human right activits. Jihadists have opened a war front against the so called infedels, it doesn't matter who shoots first and where.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Dave Minneapolis mn — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:18:25 GMT

The media can't see...
George W Bush is the biggest problem in Iraq!
Wake up!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jacques James, Chicago, Illinois — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:19:06 GMT

A very humorous question indeed. It appears to be based on the premise that Iran has (somehow) slipped past our occupying forces, into commanding and/or controlling positions. Perhaps a more relevant question could be, Is Iraq a liability for Iran, the way it is for the US?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Ron Wells — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:55:12 GMT

I find it so hard to believe their are still people out there that dont know the problem with Iraq is Geo W Bush. He lied to us so we would follow him to war. He has thrown money desperatly needed by our own people to the thieves of Baghdad.He wanted to get Sadam for his father not for us. Save money get out now and try GWB as a war criminal for the people he has killed by his ignorance.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Thomas J. Downes Jr., New Castle, De. — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:55:38 GMT

The question I have is if Iran is really our enemy? The Bush Administration has lied so much, that I doubt anything they say. Bush is always looking for a scapegoat in order to have an excuse for staying in Iraq. Perhaps Iran wants to be a friend in the Middle East, and that the Nuclear Reactor is for electricity. Given the the harm of oil on global warming, they just may be doing their part to help stop it. I saw a short film of life in Iran and the highway signs are in both Arabic and English. Why would somebody put up signs to help an enemy invade them?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Mr. Jack Bauer — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:04:33 GMT

And the Media does it again. I never cease to be amazed at how the media can have such a negative effect on people's judgement of what is REALLY happening in the world. Bush blew it when he started this war and now our military men are paying the price for something called "freedom" except they are fighting the wrong war.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

BAGHDAD, IRAQ — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:11:50 GMT

I love how the only people who make comments about America being the problem in Iraq are uninformed AMERICAN fundamentalist nut jobs who sound coincidentally like the radical terrorists we're fighting over here. At least I can shoot the terrorists.....I'm miliraty. I have a unique perspective; the one from someone who has direct knowledge, contact, and interaction with TRUE and CORRECT information as an intelligence officer.I chose my opinion based on my own experiences, and I can't agree more with the American presence here. I'm not 'voluntold' to have this opinion to support my institution. I know all the facts, good and bad, and I'm humiliated by my own people back home.
Iran IS a big problem, and I can't go into it much because of operation security, but I can say that even if Iran IS just a flavor of the month, bit by bit things are growing calmer here. How can you act surprised that the bad guys just won't lay down and die? Of course it takes time to eradicate all the fighting if it's going to stick. The USA does things right. We promised a war on terrorism. Just because Al Queda is on the down slope doesn't mean we can pack up and go home. Iraq is in its terrible two stages, and it will take a while to establish a stable country that will remain stable on it's own. Right now we're sitting on a potential time bomb. We're dismantling it peice by piece, but taking ALL the parts is necessary for success. We're rooting out the pieces as we go, carefully and in the right way. If we withrew now like we did after the first Bush had us do (because of the UN I might add), this country would be thrown into a war that would engulf the surrounding areas; people would scramble for power. What we're doing here isn't postponing the inevitable, it's preventing it all together. Grow up, people. 6, 12, 30, 50 years is NOT a long time considering the thousands of years this country has been at war. I'm the one here sacrificing my own freedoms at home, and if I'm willing to do it, you should be willing to keep your misinformed, rude, and quite politically incorrect opinions to yourselves. I'm willing to give up those 6, 12, whatever years to stabalize a world that would be severely compromised if we gave up on a job half done. Unless you come here for yourself, and give your all as we do, you shouldn't be allowed to open your mouthes. But of course, I fight for the freedom of speech, so by all means. Open your mouth. Spread poison and filth, and make people like me ashamed that we DO defend freedoms so that people like you can abuse it and ridicule those like me. No wonder there are people in the world who laugh at us. The small minded people out there in our own country attack those of us willing to HELP OTHERS. Help yourselves and help us by just getting out of the way quietly so we can do our jobs - and save the world for YOUR children so they don't have to come back here in the future to fix a mess we made bigger by listening to idiots who want us out.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Skipper Rainey, Clermont, Fl — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:16:12 GMT

Biggest problem in Iraq is the National Media and politicians. The damn war would have been over long ago had the United States allowed the military to do their job without some CNN newshound shooting scenes of the battle or some hayseed Congressman imposing restrictions on the military budget. MRAP's would have been hastily constructed saving hundreds of lives. They should have mined the borders with Iran long ago to keep insurgents from crossing in the dead of night. Yopu put signage up to keep civilians from walking into the mined area.
Allow the military free reign to do whatever needs to be done without fear of retribution from bleeding heart liberal. It's OK for the insurgents to blow up our guys or behead those US soldiers they capture.
Radical Islamists Terrorists are vermin who should be exterminated as you would a louse. War is HELL, its no picnic and it's better to have the war there then to pull out our troops too soon and those same nasty terrorists will come onto our soil to do the same thing they are doing there.
If you don't believe then you are a Jackass Liberal. Those nutjobs are trained assassins who are savoring at the mouth of killing Infidels, that's you, your wife and kids. They don't want a 9-5 job with retirement benefits. They only want to kill Americans and our way of life and as for retirement, they want to die a martyr so they can go to Allah's Land. We are the American Crusaders in their eyes, fight them on their home turf or fight them on our turf. Semper Fi!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Anthony, Saint Louis MO — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:16:24 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq is America. We are there because of a lie. There have been over 4,000 American lives lost. Over 50,000 soldiers are coming back with missing arms, legs, brain damage, loss of hearing, loss of sight, paralyzed, and countless of other problems. Going to Iraq and staying there has been the very costly to America.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Alan Manker — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:21:09 GMT

The biggest problem in Iraq is the same problem we have in the US. CORRUPTION. None of the billions of dollars is going anywhere but in US, defense contractors and Iraq Government pockets.
The people of Iraq have to fight to try to get basic needs met. Open your eyes.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

ER NY — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:30:32 GMT

Why wouldn't Iran destabilize Iraq? It fits their plan of a Caliphate to expand control.

Now this war should rightfully be called a "religious war". The Arab world should be proud of not helping from the beginning, the delay having fostered the network Iran has needed to arm the Mahdi army, a strictly religious order, with modern hardware and munitions.

Is it a reason to bail? I think the bleeding hearts club would use anything to undermine this war as well as the war on terror. I smell Caliphate! Then I smell another few bucks a gallon in gas prices to make the investors happy to boot.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Debrouillard,london — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:32:33 GMT

How can Iran be the problem when for donkey of years they have lived side-by-side.Time during which the world had seen Iraq become one of the most prosperous nations in the worls untill Bush Sr decided to attack them back in the 90's then his donkey of a son comes along again to finish off the job. Iran has always been where it is,so Iran could not possibly be the problem.Meanwhile America has only just gotten there and see what the situation has become.If I were a doctor and having to administer 2 different treatments to a patient,and the patient carried on fine on one treatement,then suddenly their health takes a decline when the second treatment is introduce,i think its common sense to stop the second treatement.In other words its common sense that America leaves right now and lets see if Iraq wldnt get back to where it was before the arrivals of the Americans.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

MAUREEN CASEY, POCASSET, MA. — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:42:16 GMT

THE BIGGEST PROBLEM IN IRAQ IS THE UNITED STATES. IF WE NEVER INVADED AND OCCUPIED THE COUNTRY, 4,000 PLUS AMERICAN SOLDIERS AND UNTOLD THOUSANDS OF INNOCENT IRAQIS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN KILLED. FORGET IRAN, WHAT ABOUT THE CRIMINALS WHO ARE IN OUR WHITE HOUSE, AND MADE THE DECISION TO INVADE IRAQ, INSTEAD OF GOING AFTER BIN LADEN IN AFGANISTAN. OUR COUNTRY IS NOW IN RUINS AND WE ARE TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN DEBT. WE WENT TO WAR BECAUSE OF THE 9/11 ATTACK ON OUR COUNTRY & BECAUSE OF A LIE THAT IRAQ WAS DEVELOPING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!!! HOW MANY IRAQI'S WERE IN THOSE PLANES? BUSH AND HIS CRONIES, BY INVADING IRAQ, MADE IRAQ EASILLY ACCESSABLE FOR IRAN. BY THE WAY, WHERE IS OSAMA BIN LADEN?

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Scott, Washington, DC — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:48:15 GMT

Almost every high level politician, democrat and republican alike, have stated since the late 80's that Iraq has had many different varieties of weapons of mass destruction. Do a web search and see what you find.

The only way to rebuild is by the people who live there. That won't begin fully until it's safe. That is what Americans are working and dying for over there. Mitilias(many from Iran) are fighting that effort. A huge majority(80-90%) of Americans felt it was the right thing to do when we first went in. Now the right thing to do is stay and finish what we started. Not leave a country defenseless, and open to become ruled by another ruthless individual.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

NJ — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:10:16 GMT

We are not in Iraq for the people of Iraq. We the USA could care less about the people of Iraq if we did we would have made this mistake in the 1990's. The problem is big oil and China's growth. China and Russia have more Arms deals with terrorist groups than Iran and all the munitions used in terrorists attacks have Russia and China technology written all over it. Saddam Hussein did not do any thing different than China has been doing for the last 50 years. A brutal dictatorship in China is killing demonstrators of its own blood I repeat DEMONSTRATORS OF ITS OWN BLOOD and nothing is done about that. The USA is sick to even think about sending an Olympic team to brutal nations that goes against everything that the USA is about. China can stick the Olympics and the torch up their A$$ for all I care. The control of big oil and big arms deals between Iraq, China, Russia and even France is why we are in Iraq today!!!!! BIG OIL and China is the Common Factor!!!!!

Tony

Thanks for the Cafferty Report

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

ric j — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:28:54 GMT

It's amazing to me that the weapons caches in iraq are not taken care of. Blow up the mosques and you will see less and less weapons or sanctuaries for the insurgents to hide in, pretending they are praying... send them all to allah

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Edwin Williams, Indianapolis, Indiana — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:48:50 GMT

Iran is causing problems in Iraq. The Fascist Iranian Regime with WWII Nazi influence, never ceased to propagate the anti-Semitism we all know too well and see flourishing in America and around the world today. We did what was needed to occupy and Nation Build Europe and much of Asia, but left Africa and the Middle East to their own fate thus allowing the numerous cancerous ideologies to fester unchecked. What we see today is the result of America’s past indifference, not the present influence. We as Americans and all free societies need to recognize that we are the future of the world and leaving dictators and ignorant populations to remain as such is like allowing alligators to live in your Florida swimming pool, only because he/she was there first and should be left alone. Doing so is not a viable decision, because you will eventually get bit. America has made a noticeable change in Iraq. I know this because I was in Iraq in 2003 and I am presently in Iraq today. I speak directly with Iraqis on a daily basis. They have tasted true Freedom and Democracy and they are reveling in its overwhelming feelings and emotions. Is Freedom and Democracy worth fighting and dying for? Put yourself in the shoes of the oppressed and then ask yourself that same question. Most of you who oppose America’s policing of the world are most likely the same who would walk by helpless victims of a heinous crime without risking your own life. The world is becoming smaller and smaller by the minute and we need to continue to do whatever it takes to make the world a better place for ALL TO LIVE! Quit sitting on your porch complaining and get out here and help be the solution, not the problem. The world has the United States of America and all those who believe in Freedom on its side, thank goodness!

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

victor martinez, brooklyn , n.y. — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:11:11 GMT

Yes, but nobody has the guts to do anything about it

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Daz — Thu, 01 May 2008 14:19:10 GMT

Wikipedia oil pipline Afghanistan and you will also see why the US is there.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Kevin Loignon — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:01:29 GMT

We are the problem. We are interfering with groups of
people who wish to slaughter each other. They hate us,
we're in the way. We need to leave so they (the Iraqi
"factions") can get on with it. Do we really think we can stop it? We're idiots if we do. Let the slaughter
begin. It should be obvious to anyone who can think:
God deserted this planet years ago.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

LGB, Glen Head, NY — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:03:54 GMT

Steve Duvall has the right idea - we ignorant Americans need to learn a little history before we go barging into another country with false data and then trying to force a round peg down a square hole.

Prior to WWI, France & England agreed to arbitrarily cut up the area according to their imperialist imperatives with the Sykes-Picot Accord, which simply drew an imaginary line thru the teritories now occupied by Syria, Jordan, Israel, Iraq, etc. without regard to the differing tribal claims on the land, then promising domain over these areas to those they thought they could control.

Iraq wound up under French control and a king sanctioned by them; the people of Iraq are too varied in view to be considered a cohesive nation - the only thing that held them together was their shared fear of Saddam. Once we eliminated him (under obviously false pretenses - GWB just wanted to finish what his daddy couldn't), these groups began clamoring for their rightful piece of the pie. Had we not been so arrogant, and knew a little of their history, we could have predicted that the country would fall into civil strife and been prepared for it (even though we really had no business invading them in the first place, but once committed, the powers that be should have given the military all they required to control a predictable occurence).

Many in Iraq are Arab, most in Iran are Persian, and a little research will show you that the only thing the Arabs ever brought to the table for the Persians was religion - something many modern Iranians are none too happy about. As a people, they are more pro-Western than many realize; like us, they are held captive by those in power who would use religion (Iran - Islam, US - Chritianity) to fulfill their own agendas.

We need to stop playing policeman to the world and get our own house in order first; surely come to the aid of those who ASK FOR IT, but otherwise, butt out.

The sleeping bear will not hurt you if you don't poke it.

Is Iran the biggest problem in Iraq?

Jerseybull, Highland, Illinois — Thu, 01 May 2008 15:30:40 GMT

While Iraq is a problem, what is to be said for the Congress who, if fulfilling their responsibilities, could have prevented such conflageration and shame on this country. Don't tell me we are free for we are beginning to feel the onslought of the NWO. It is sad that governments are headed by those who can not rule themselves!