Iraq: Coming to Play

Today, Iraqis had an opportunity to vote a new constitution up or down. Voting may seem like a trivial event in modern America, but just imagine this: You go to vote and there is only one name with a box for a checkmark (ballots left without a checkmark are not considered in tallies). That describes the voting process Iraqis have used for the last twenty years, never mind the fear associated with either not voting or not checking the box (remember, secret police). Now, not only is there choice but also a reasonable expectation the selections will be respected. But let me get to my principle observation about this vote.

In January and now October, insurgents (or more properly, foreign radicals and internal rebels) have tried to disrupt voting, dissuade participation, and promote societal fear. Twice Iraqis have proven these insurgents are the vast minority. Twice insurgents have tried to punish the United States during votes and twice the United States has put Iraq on lockdown. So why is it that the United States has been so successful in these two instances? Because the US came to play and the insurgents aren't in the same league. When there are fixed targets, when there are not innumerable soft opportunities, and when the US draws a line and says "Come get us," the insurgents show their true strength. Aside from placing hidden bombs by the side of roads, the insurgents have proven again and again that they are ineffective against the United States military. Many months ago, attacks began to be focused on Iraqi civilians. They are easier targets. This alone proves the insurgents are not interested in liberating Iraq from occupation. They are interested in taking power, even if it means killing other Muslims. In the last six month over 3,000 Iraqi men, women, and children have been killed. The US has been in Iraq for over two and a half years and our military has had lass than 2,000 casualties. Every life matters on a multitude of levels; on a strategic military level, 2,000 casualties are inconsequential. The US will only lose the war in Iraq if the people of the US lose their will. An early withdraw is not necessary, it is insane.

The bottom line is this: when the US has come to play, it isn't close. It's a rout. And by the way, most Iraqis seem to be following the path the US is clearing.