Iraqi Spirit

The Good Old Days

2006-04-04T12:40:00.000+01:00

What really amazes me is that Reid is actually arguing to change the rules because they are too restrictive. It is as if they respected them in the first place, and where abiding by them. I think he is yearning for the good old days.

GOD

2006-03-05T11:36:00.000Z

It seems like all the loonies have a direct link to GOD.

A New Blogger

2005-05-30T01:21:00.000+01:00

Please join me in welcoming Myst to the blogsphere. She has been a regular commentator on this website and has finally decided to take the plunge. Hopefully that will not deter her from visiting here once in a while. ;)

Except Iraq

2005-05-11T05:39:00.000+01:00

We heard a press comment from our foreign minister about our country (Syria) restoring diplomatic relations for the first time in years with Iraq.

I always felt that Iraq is a very far away country, like it is in another continent, in another world. I was raised as all Syrians were on the idea that Iraq was an enemy. The disagreement between the ruling Baathist parties in both countries was fierce. This rivalry was in turn reflected in the relation between the both sets of people. Our eastern borders were closed, nobody used to cross it. Still in my passport the words that allows me to visit all countries, added to it in thick blue pen “except Iraq”.

During the first gulf war, the Syrians hid their feelings, which were hostile towards the US and in support of Iraq. Syria joined the international coalition, but people’s feelings were with Iraq, which was being bombed mercilessly. Nobody showed their feelings when the blood in amarya air raid shelter was spilt. There was a wall of fear, which was separating us from the closed and mysterious Iraq.

Our feelings died after the war due to the disillusionment during the war and after it. The borders were still closed and behind it there were people who were surrounded internally and externally. People who were oppressed and hungry in the same time.

The relationships improved before the regime’s downfall, the borders were reopened and the words “except Iraq” were dropped. But psychologically Iraq was still far and mysterious at the same time.

And then, the American war against Iraq started. This time the Syrian people were allowed to show their real feelings as it suited our government objectives. For a moment we felt Iraq was near but after the war ended, the wall came back even higher. There was an occupation army, bombs, terrorism, sectarianism, mass graves, kidnappings and beheadings. There was an American army, threats, and fear of chaos, destruction and democracy.

Today, even if the relationships would come back the wall has become higher, and Iraq is far away.

Translated from a Syrian blog called hunadimashaq (Here is Damascus).

My friend,

Iraq is very near. Just remember in your hour of need,Iraqi soldiers were defending Damascus in 1973, and in our hour of need you accepted 200,000 refugees giving them a new lifeline out of the clutches of Saddam, when the French, Jordanians, and Kuwaitis were sending back dissidents to Saddam to be executed. You were there helping, while British immigration officers were harassing Iraqi asylum seekers, wondering why they were escaping Saddam. You were there helping, while Rumsfeld was shaking hands with Saddam.

Iraq is closer than you might think.

Our women rep

2005-04-01T10:30:00.000+01:00

She doesn't mind getting beaten up. Maybe she is into S&M
She doesn't mind giving up her children once they reach the age of 2 when divorced
She doesn't mind her husband marrying another woman
But when it comes to money, she wants equality, 50% or bust.

The most scary thing about this woman is that she is a former pediatrician, so presumably, this woman has been educated and exposed to ideas that would make her fight for improvement of her life, not the other way around.
According to the Arab Development report, women rights in Iraq are miles ahead of any other Arab country. This freak of nature is trying to reverse of all of that.

Flight to torture

2005-03-27T11:18:00.000+01:00

What is really amazing is that counteries that are regarded highly in respect to Human Rights are in on it. I don't expect much of the CIA, and MI6, the standards they employ have sucked since long time ago, and only now worldwide abuses have been highlighted. But Sweden!!!! I for one think they have colluded in the kidnap of people, and if it wasn't for brave men like Paul Forrell we would not have known about it.

Excerpts from my reading list

2005-03-23T20:39:00.000Z

Different style ? are you wondering who this is? well my friend O has kindly allowed me to 'guest write' on his cool blog while he's busy doing other things. Just hope I don't ruin it ;) . O , you can always kick me out ok ?

I will interject this blog with longer passages from some books which I found interesting. This will be called cornily ;) 'Reading list excerpt' ( I couldn't think of anything else obviously) .

Today's excerpt is from Raphael Israeli' s book: The Iraq War; the Regional Impact on Shi'ites, Kurds, Sunnis and Arabs : Hidden Agendas and the Babylonian Intrigue. Quite a long title don't you think, in addition to the fact that Arabs can be both Sunni and Shia while Kurds are mainly Sunni, so I didn't see the point. Never mind, this book is very articulate and you would not want to stop once you start. It is a chronicle of the 2003 war against Iraq. The author is pro-war so for all of you out there thinking 'oh this is a left wing propaganda' : no it is not, plus he is Jewish and was able to write with amazing 'relative' honesty , which made me enjoy the book more.

"The night of 11 April the day after Baghdad had fallen, the buildings of North Oil, like many other public institutions, were stripped bare and set afire; doors and windows were broken; and everything was taken away by Kurds, soldiers and civilians alike. Company cars were packed with fans, tires, bulbs, mattresses, porcelain, flower pots and even drop ceilings to sell as scrap. They took the computers, the trucks, the forklifts, the cranes, the buses, the shelves, the desks, the chairs, the cabinets in the offices where all data was stored, and made off through Kurdish military roadblocks to Kurdish territory. No records were left behind. The result was that a company with 10,000 employees was no longer operational". ( Israeli 2003, p151)

You're telling yourself so what's her point? we all know there was looting in Iraq after the fall of Baghdad. Yes , we do but I wanted to drive home the fact that the Kurdish army and the Kurdish people have been a big part of this looting activity. The Kurds were riding with the victorious liberating 'coalition' forces and were supposedly 'liberators' with them. I guess they believed that they had the same right as that conquering army to loot and steal. My point is that the Iraqi criminal elements were not composed of one single mass, but the Kurds had a great deal of hands in the pie of stealing since they were under the protection of the Peshmerga and the US army. I may be wrong but they did the greatest damage, not the poor souls who stole a few chairs from some buildings. So the tales about hordes of strangers descending on Mosul and other cities to loot then leave may bear a ring of thruth in them .

Signing off Highlander

No Comment

2005-03-20T16:41:00.000Z

The article speaks for itself.

Chatting with BS

2005-01-18T10:26:00.000Z

*sarcasm on*

Here is a fictitious internet chat with an Egyptian chat friend, whom I don’t know, but still managed to convince to vote for Mubarek. For simplicity sake, I will call him BS.

O: Hi are you from Egypt

BS: Hi & yes

O: So you are going to vote for Mubarek

BS: No man, the guy is ill, and old. Also rumours circling around that he is preparing his son to follow him for the presidency.

O: Still that is no excuse not to vote for the one and only “legitimate leader”… Look at it this way, you never criticised him for the corruption, cronyism, and general lack of political tolerance towards the opposition.I mean, come on look at his achievements, according to lots of economic studies, 57% of Egyptians are below the bread line. 1% of the population controls 80% of the economy, and 80% of the population control only 1% of the economy. Now that is egalitarianism for you. Also, about his sons, as you stated they are only rumours.

BS: You may have a point here.

O: Beside, if you don’t vote for Mubarek, all the cheerleaders who will vote, will just wax lyrical anything he or the government does, but if you vote, you will be able to change things from the inside. If you boycott, you will not be represented. You don’t want another few years of no say in the matter.

BS: I live in neighbourhood of cheerleaders, and if I don’t vote, I will not be represented. I will vote for Mubarek, and I’m no “CHEERLEADER”

*sarcasm off*

Dear GM

Re:16th January Blog

I appreciate the wonderful imaginative effort you put in this dialogue/chat with what must to us Iraqis sound like a non-Iraqi at all, regardless of the Sunni/Shia part. First this is not the Iraqi tone, style and expressionism, unless you stumbled on some very humorous Iraqi guy/girl who wanted to make fun of you. If you have ever stepped foot into Iraq, you will know for certain that and sorry to hurt your feelings but in general you would be looked down on as an Egyptian, especially if you sounded like one, it's a specific trait of ours habibi (and other arabs in General toward your lot) because most Egyptians were in Iraq as guest workers and not tourists/consultants on Iraqi history/democracy experts etc..and we Iraqis would not be seen dead consorting with a 'guest' worker unless he/she was a colleague that you could not avoid, or the daughter of an Egyptian guest worker that you were fancying.
So you spoke with an Iraqi, who had the time in this war to chat online with you, bypassing all the electricity blackouts, shitty phone line services, and daily grind of life, but on the other hand wanted to hear about the elections from some "anon", not that he/she is being bombarded daily with info abou it. GM wake up man who are you trying to fool? Your cheerleaders? That’s fine. With this fertile imagination you are guaranteed a job with Seinfeld and any other stand up comic, hey you even beat our own Minister of 'Information' the well known Mohamed Said al-Sahaf

WMD

2005-01-17T09:40:00.000Z

Q: "What's the difference between Iraqi weapons of mass destruction and the Loch Ness Monster?"

A: "They're still looking for the Loch Ness Monster."

-;)

So where were you?

2004-12-22T22:59:00.000Z

There have been some cases where when the heat got on, they left the battlefield. That's unacceptable.

So Mr. President:

Where were you, when your country called in its hour of need?

Smoking pot??
Binge drinking??
Partying??

Then getting daddy to sort out the mess, after you going AWOL.

You are unacceptable, not those soldiers.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Wanted to share

2004-12-11T08:28:00.000Z

I made a rule not to comment on other iraqi blogs, but felt the need to share the following with you all. Today I was checking ITM brothers, and they wrote about being chosen as the best non-american blog by some right wing news service/organisation. I scrolled down to the comments section, and there was "666" comments being made. Needless to say, I was in hysterics.

Congrats boys for the win.

Geniuses at work

2004-11-19T19:01:00.000Z

Not only do they descrate one of the most revered places in Iraq for sunni's and probably sunni Islam as well, but they also manage to kill few people while they are at it.

Advice: How about you cross the bridge near the mosque and storm the other weird looking mosque on the other side of the river. You would have truly won hearts and minds.

Edited:

Sean: I really don't know the reason behind the raid. The Iraqi interim government and the US military usually have a list of reasons they wheel out to the public whenever they do something. It is up to you to believe or dig deeper.
In my opinion, they raided the mosque because it houses the Association of Muslim Scholars offices (if I'm not mistaken). AMS is powerful Sunni political body which has called for the boycotting of the election as a sign of protest to what is happening in Falluja. This call will be adhered to by a significant number of Iraqi Sunni’s, leaving the political process hanging in the balance.
Since the call for the boycott, the interim government with the aid of the US military has arrested one founder of the association and few members as well. It is nothing more than arm twisting, bullying, and intimidation tactics they are using to force AMS to change its mind. These kind of actions are actually strengthening AMS rather than weakening it.

Joe: If you don't like the source of this news, it is up to you to prove any different.

Getting out of war crimes 101

2004-11-17T08:27:00.000Z

I don’t know why people were surprised, and shocked when they saw the execution video. I mean these things have been going in Iraq for a long time now, with the knowledge of the commanders on the ground, and probably in the White House. I have come across lots of stories from friends about such events. The only difference is that dumb bastard got caught on tape; while others were more discreet in their methods. But hey at least he is not as stupid as that other soldier from Nevada or Arizona who confessed on local radio to killing POW’s. I mean talk about self-incriminating evidence. Obviously, the marines only look for people with an IQ that is struggling to get into positive single digits let alone break into double digits.

Anyway here is my Avoiding War Crimes 101 (your guide to eternal bliss)

If you happen to be a torturer:

Note: What you are about to embark on is against the Geneva Conventions (but since you don’t know where the fuck is Geneva, the assumption is that you probably don’t give a fuck. And No, Geneva is not some kind of biscotti. Look up what is biscotti while you are at it)

1- If you want to torture somebody, make sure you are alone

2- If you are not alone, make sure that everyone in your group participates. So everyone is guilty and can’t open their trap, when their conscious awakens

3- DO NOT TAKE ANY PHOTOS. You are incriminating yourself you dumb bastard. Very BAAAAAAAAAAAAAD at trial time

4- If you are going to blame your superiors, make sure that whatever they told you to do, should be in writing. But since we have established that you are a dumb bastard, you are not likely to ask to cover your ass.

5- If you happen to be female torturer and were caught, get knocked up. It might lead to a more lenient sentence. Although I despair at the thought of what kind of miserable creature are you going to nurture into this world

6- If all fails, do not despair. You will only get nine months in prison, a dishonourable discharge (which means shit), and be feted as war hero for giving it to some ragheads in your hometown.

If you happen to be executing POW’s while in combat:

Note the same cautionary note goes out to you in regards to the Geneva Conventions.

1- If you want to execute a POW, make sure you are alone

2- If you are not alone, make sure you are with some like-minded people. Not very hard to find since most of you are under the impression that you are avenging the death of people in the WTC. (Note: Saudis were the main culprits "your government allies", who committed those crimes. Not a single Iraqi was involved. But WTF, they are all sand niggers to you)

3- DO NOT GET FILMED ON CAMERA. The embeds will screw you, not out of decency or being moralistic about what is right and wrong, but they are making a journalistic scoop out of it. Either way your ass is grass if you get caught

4- Get everything in writing, although I doubt you are smart enough to realise the value of such exercise.

5- Don’t worry, all you are going to get is a slap on the hand, and then back to killing some more ragheads. They really need every fucking tosser to fight, or they might have to introduce the draft(and believe me, they do not want to do that just yet). If you die, to them you are just a hillbilly, redneck loser whom nobody cares about.

Articles to read

2004-11-14T05:56:00.000Z

You have got to love Myers, civilian deaths "hardly any, if any". Lies about civilian deaths, and most likely lies about US soldiers casualties

Winning hearts and minds (Nazi style)

And finally, incase you have not noticed.

Answering Joe

2004-11-07T22:50:00.000Z

"Also, do you think the insurgents are a little more nervous after nov 2?"

Joe wrote the following question in the comments section of my last blog.

If you are not aware, whether it was Kerry or Bush winning on the 2nd, it would have been business as usual for the resistance. Fighting an occupation might be an alien concept to some Americans, when their troops are the occupiers, but it is not just Americans who are patriotic, and love their country, others are just the same if not more.

Did the Afghanis stop fighting when Gorbachev came to power?
Did the Algerians stop fighting when De Gaulle came to power?
Did the Libyans stop fighting when Mussolini came to power?
Did the Viet Cong stop fighting when Johnson left and Nixon came?

The answer to these questions is "NO, they did not" because at the end of the day it did not make a difference who was in power. Foreign occupation troops were still on the ground, and some people saw fit to fight them.

Most of the time when it comes to foreign affairs, countries do not change their policies until it reaches a dead end whomever is in power. Kerry would not have been any different.

People in the ME have sussed out US policy in their region, and they were not exactly overwhelmed with the alternative choice being presented. At the end of the day the US had 3 pillars that it never deviated from when conducting it affairs in the ME.

1. Ensuring Israel's military superiority over it neighbors
2. Ensuring free flow of oil
3. Combating the spread of communism (change that to terror groups after the end of the cold war)

For point 1, it has really become an embarrassment. Your politicians do not fail to show their allegiance to Israel, even at the expense of their own country. It has become a big tasteless joke

Point 2, Saudi Arabian and gulf area oil was always in the bag, add Iraq to it. That is approximately 40%-45% of all world resources. I don't think you can ask for more.

Point 3, combating terror. Anybody who thinks that Kerry or any other US president for that matter will be less hawkish in this war than Bush, is clearly stupid. It has become a war of survival, and these groups will have to exterminate or be exterminated. But having said that, I just like to remind my American readers that it was not on Kerry's watch that OBL was allowed to slip through the net in TORA BORA.

Some of you might argue and add a 4th point. Spreading democracy in the ME. I was totally willing to be swayed by that argument, but in little mentioned story coming out of the ME, one of America's most trusted thugs (the Tunisian president) has just won another term in office (20 years and counting) with 94.99% of the total vote. But look at the bright side, it used to be 99.999%...yep democracy is gaining in Tunisia... Now we have 5 human beings opposing this guy's re-election,instead of few fingers or part foot etc.

The most disturbingly amusing thing I have come across after the US election is what I noticed while browsing the Pravada forums. There was an alliance of happiness between die hard communists and rednecks at the victory. The die hard communists argue that the only way the US is going down is through economic means and while the actions taken by Bush in his 1st term would have been reversible, they reckon that now it will be all downhill. The rednecks are just happy that god's deputy has won, and the broadband link he enjoys has not been severed.

Interesting times ahead.

Email from an American blogger

2004-10-25T21:09:00.000+01:00

I received an email from an American blogger (Jason Ramsey) a while back asking some questions. I will attempt to answer those questions the best I can. I believe that these are important question and should be shared with you all. I do apologise for taking a long time in answering Jason -;).

Q-The big question I would like to ask is simply, who would you like to see as the next President of the United States; John Kerry or George Bush. And why?

A- It is a difficult question to answer. Both candidates seem to be adopting the same kind of politics when it comes to Iraq, the only difference is that Kerry has promised to pull back in 4 years time. I’m all for that, give back responsibility to the Iraqis to manage their own affairs. I would slightly lean towards Kerry because of that, but I’m not expecting much.
You as an American should vote to the best candidate, who can offer you a better life, socially, politically, and economically. It is very unfortunate that the whole election has been reduced to scare mongering, when there are lots of genuine issues that are effecting the US at the present time not being discussed fully.

Q- Did we do the right thing?

A- I presume by saying did we do the right thing you mean removing Saddam. Then the answer is Yes. But, it is rather unfortunate that at a some moment in time, the US have turned from a liberator to an occupier through very bad planning.

Q- Do you think Iraq should be a democracy? If needed, should we send more troops to Iraq to help secure the nation?

A-Definitely Yes. I don’t think more troops are needed, what is needed is a different approach. What is happening is the US trying to export its own institutions/democracy and plant it in Iraq, with little understanding of the local culture, and political/social environment they are facing. The US administration relied on few rogue Iraqi opposition people, and some evangelist neo-cons who are not prepared to admit they were wrong, and that combination led to disaster. If I’m not mistaken, the State department published a study before the war of what is going to happen and what is needed to be done to steady the ship. This study was ignored by the pentagon. I’m amazed that until now with all the crap that is happening, heads have not rolled yet.

Q- Do you have any personal stories about life under Saddam?

A- Personally No. I never lived in Iraq while Saddam was president.

Q- Do you think Iraq is better now than under Saddam?

A- Security wise at present time, I don’t think so. In the long term Yes.

Q- How do you feel about the fact that some innocent Iraqis lost their lives, or were permanently injured, due to America¹s decision to remove Saddam?

A- I feel the same way about them if Saddam has killed them. For me life is precious, and war was never the answer. There were lots of avenues that could have been adopted to remove him.

Q- In the future, if America has the ability to use the military to remove Non-Democratic governments from power and install Democratic ones such as we are attempting with your country should we do it?

A- I don’t think the US will be invading any country any time soon. Even if ordinary people were receptive to the ideas of being invaded to achieve democracy, after seeing the chaos happening in Iraq, I believe they will fight tooth and nail to protect the current regimes in place, since these regimes are offering some kind of stability. To achieve democracy in country need not be through war. There are lots of ways to pressure governments to achieve your aims.

Q- We hear reports of Non-Muslims in your country being treated badly, and in some cases being murdered, in the wake of Saddam¹s fall. Is this true? How do you feel about this?

A- Yes that is happening. I don’t make any distinction between any human beings. It is such a waste to kill somebody because you hate their race/religion/etc… It is very sad to see ALL the dead.

Q- Is there a picture you could email along with your answer that you would feel comfortable with me posting next to your answer?

A- I’m afraid I don’t understand your question. What kind of picture do you want?

Joke of the day

2004-10-08T16:34:00.000+01:00

"There are many, many good people who have gone to prison. Look at Nelson Mandela."

How could you even begin to compare yourself to Nelson mandela!!!

The mind boggles.

US elections and Iraq

2004-09-24T08:00:00.000+01:00

I have been following the US election race for some time now, and to be quite honest with you, my main concern is what each candidate will be trying to achieve in regards to Iraq in the next 4 years. The way I see it, Bush is not actually offering anything new, it will be 4 more years of the same failed policies that has turned Iraq into a terrorist haven.

Kerry on the other hand is saying that he will seek a greater involvement of the traditional allies (I presume, France, Germany etc…), and the UN to help sort out the mess. The significant difference between Kerry’s message and that of Bush is the fact that Kerry has promised to pull out of Iraq within 4 years and bring the army back home.

Let us assume that Kerry is genuine with his promise, as an Iraqi I wholeheartedly support him on this issue. I think it is about time for Iraqis to take responsibility for their own affairs. If they want to live together then they will have to deal with each other without having an outside power playing favourites with the local population. If they want to separate then so be it. If they want a federalist/confederation/religious/secular or whatever regime, then it will be their own problem to sort out. As long as there is an American umbrella hanging over Iraqi affairs, local politicians will never sit down and start deal making for the future. They will always look to the Americans to force the issue to the detriment of others. By pulling out, lots of people will argue that civil war might kick off. That is a possibility, but that possibility will always be hanging in the air when the eventual time for US troops to pull out comes. Look at Czechsolvakia, and Yugoslavia as an example after the fall of communism, years of repression and outside infulences did not stop the people from going their own seperate ways. If civil war does occur, Iraq will not be the first failed nation state, and it certainly won’t be the last to go down that road. Although I’m quite optimistic in that respect, and draw on Somalia as an example, in the sense that if people wanted to take the route of civil war, then even the physical involvement of the biggest superpower on earth will not stop them from fighting each other. Iraqis have shown that they do not want to fight each other, and they are united against the terrorists who try to ignite the sectarian/racial feuds, and have shown extraordinary resiliency in the face of killer blows.

If I had the right to vote in the US elections, then I will be voting for Kerry, because unwittingly, he is handing the initiaitve back to the Iraqi people, and will be forcing them to be responsible for their own actions, if he carries through with his pull out promise.

It is time for Iraqis to sink or swim.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

The Bright Spark Strikes Again

2004-09-01T19:21:00.000+01:00

In a speech to the US House Armed Services Committee on Tuesday, Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz urged Congress to authorize US$500 million for the creation of a network of “US-friendly” militias around the world to combat terrorists. While the US already trains and equips armies around the world in the “war on terror”, Wolfowitz is calling on Congress to take those efforts further, by training and equipping private militias

Now correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't successive US governments help create/arm/fund right wing militia's in S. America to combat the spread of communism, only for those militia's to branch into the drugs business which is directly effecting US society today? I don't even want to discuss Bin Laden....

Day after Day P. Wolfowitz proves to me that he is out of touch with whats real.
(I would imagine the BNP/Combat 18 lining up the streets of london to join the new militia... Legalised beating up/killing of others...Wouldn't that be a sight for sore eyes? what do you think povvy..;)...hehehe)

A couple of requests: The comment section is for you to exchange ideas and discuss anything related to the blog. It was not intended as a medium to insult, use profanities, or threaten each other with severe beating. PLEASE keep it clean.

2nd request: I'm in the process of buying a digital camera, want to show off my abilities in the photography department. I will probably create a photo blog once I buy the camera for you to comment/berate/have fun at my expense, but for the moment I need the help of the professionals. I narrowed down my requirements to 3 cameras.

Canon S60
Sony P100/P120
Samsung Digimax V50

While I can find lots of reviews about the canon/sony, i'm afraid there are no reviews for the samsung. Has anybody bought it/used it/ can commnet on it? Thanx in davnce

Long Live Iraq

Hello again

2004-08-16T12:44:00.000+01:00

Hi All,

I haven't been blogging for the last 2 months, partly laziness/holidays/and mostly because there were football tournaments to follow, which kind of took my time.

Anyway, as most of you are aware, Iraq football team got into the thick of action last Thursday and beat Portugal, one of the favourites to win the olympic gold medal in a very exciting match. Yesterday, they beat Costa Rica to confirm qualification to the 2nd round of the football tournament.

I came across an editorial in arabnews.com about the win against Portugal and thought that it was worth sharing with you all. I whole-heartedly agree with writer’s words and, I sincerely hope that our politicians can learn from those young men who achieved something regarded as difficult if not impossible. Here goes the article:

“Editorial: Iraqi Team’s Victory

14 August 2004

At last some unalloyed good news for Iraq. Against all the odds, the Iraqi football team thrashed the Portuguese national team 4-2 in their opening Group D game in the Olympic football competition. Portugal, runners-up in the European Championships, clearly had no answer to the determined tactics of their Arab opponents.Those who would say that it is wrong to read too much into a game of football should think again. Whatever the fortunes of the Iraqi footballers in the rest of the competition, this startling initial victory is of crucial importance to all Iraqis not simply because it is a positive achievement at a time when so much in the country seems negative. This outstanding success means so much because it was gained by a team of players drawn from all the ethnic and cultural groups within the country. The only criterion for a player’s selection was ability. The overwhelming guideline for all members of the squad was that they should work together as a team. And this is what they did so magnificently. Their victory is therefore not simply on the football pitch itself. They have demonstrated in the most compelling and public manner that Iraqis can work together and gain success off the football field as well as on it.The essential ingredients needed for victory in the face of apparently overwhelming odds are discipline, determination and a deep pride in being Iraqi. What was achieved Thursday in Athens can be achieved tomorrow in Baghdad, Fallujah, Najaf, Basra, Mosul and throughout the country.The guiding rule is that Iraqis must work together. When they manage that they can surmount whatever challenges are thrown in their way. On Thursday Iraqis everywhere followed the match with disbelief and rising delight. How could their team be outplaying and beating one of the best football teams in the world which included highly paid international stars like Manchester United’s winger Cristiano Ronaldo? Of course there were awful errors like Haidar Jabar’s. But this was more than made up for by brilliant playing from his team mates which at times made the elite Portuguese players seem mundane and quite without an adequate response to driving Iraqi tactics.This was not a victory for the interim government. It certainly was not a victory for the coalition forces. It was a victory for Iraqis, all Iraqis, whether they are die-hard Baathists in the so-called Sunni triangle or people from the poorest parts of the Shiite community who make up the Mehdi Army. Iraq’s football stars won that victory for all of them. They battled on the sports field to show that there is no need for Iraqis to be fighting each other in the streets. Their football win shows Iraqis that by working together, they can also win the peace.”

Just to look at a sample of players in that team:

Qusay Muneer Iraqi from Basra
Noor Sabri Iraqi from Najaf
Emad Mohammed Iraqi from Baghdad
Ahmad Minajid Iraqi from Falluja
Hawar Mulla Mohammed Iraqi from Mosul
Younis Mahmood Iraqi from Kirkuk

Can our politicians learn from them?

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Oh dear....

2004-07-01T06:12:00.000+01:00

"The American asked me why we had beaten the prisoners. I said we beat the prisoners because they are all bad people. But I told him we didn't strip them naked, photograph them or fuck them like you did."

To be quite honest with you, I laughed when I read the above quoted comment...

Anyway, just to clarify something over here, those people who were rounded up are criminals. They reside in the Batawieen district of Baghdad (A crime ridden neighbourhood, which most Baghdadi's avoid at all cost. Kind of like East St Louis, which I had the misfortune of getting lost in...hehehe)

At the risk of sounding like a thug, but those people deserve everything that is coming to them. A friend of mine had his uncle, grandad, and cousin kidnapped by gangs from that area on different occassions. They have held ordinary Iraqis hostage for more than a year and unleashed a crime wave on a scale never seen before in Iraq's modern history. I have no sympathy for them, because they are persistant offenders. I have mixed feelings, I want the rule of law to take root in Iraq, but what do you do with somebody brandishing an AK47 ready to steal everything from you, even your life?

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Blah,Blah,Blah,Blah

2004-05-28T01:16:00.000+01:00

I was meeting a friend (let us call him “A”) last night that I have not seen for a couple of months, so as we were driving in the car, discussing current events, he looked at me and said:

A:I’m sure you follow current events as much as I do

O:Yes

A: haven’t you noticed how in every conversation that comes up, there are 3 words that are being used interchangeably regardless of the issue?

O: And what are they?

A: Freedom, Democracy, and Terror. For example the media ask a question about WMD’s and all you could hear is blah,blah,blah, freedom, blah,blah,blah,blah, democracy, blah,blah,blah,blah terrorism.
Or another example for instance about AbuGhraib, the sound coming out of the politicians is blah,blah,blah, democracy, blah,blah,blah,blah, terrorism, blah,blah,blah,blah freedom.

He added that people are being brainwashed and cowed into over simplification of issues.

O: Surely all the words mentioned by you are important to us in the Middle East, and we can’t compromise on them. For example, Alqaeda is more of danger to us than they are to the west. While they are willing to compromise with the west (Spain as an example), the only compromise they will offer us is a total change in our way of life to adhere to their edicts, or our head gets chopped off.

A: That’s true, and I’m not disputing that we need those ideals in our societies, to have a better life to everyone.

But, I’m talking about western politicians over here; they mention those words on any occasion, while on the other hand they have allies such as the president of Uzbekistan, who boils political opponents, and conveniently forget to remind him of his human rights abuses, so why not have a universal standards applied to everyone instead of being selective about it?

O: Smiling and shaking my head knowing where this conversation going to lead, I reply

“blah,blah,blah, democracy, blah,blah,blah,blah, terrorism, blah,blah,blah,blah freedom.”

A bit weary

2004-05-18T02:10:00.000+01:00

I got an email from a fellow egyptian blogger. And while I don't usually answer emails in public, i took exception to his as he has raised an intresting point and I asked for his permission to answer in my blog. Since he has not replied back, I will go ahead and say what I want to say.

Anyway summary of the email:

He said to me that he had read my blog. He had disagreed with what I write as it was unbalanced and unfair, he had many Iraqis who expressed their gladness to meet an Arab who supports a democratic Iraq, and he truly believes that "Bush's
firm stand and vigilance" will see Iraq towards a better life.

Now, I'm not going to argue with the guy's opinions, he is entitled to them, just as I do, nobody holds absolute truth, and everything is relative. There is no right or wrong in opinions, circumstances changes with time and what is permissible today, might not be in the future.

What I would like to say is that in the Arab world, I have noticed 2 vociferous camps. The first we can term as the pro-America and the other as the anti-America.

I'm a bit weary of both camps to be quite honest with you.

The pro camp for instance is willing to whitewash everything bad the US is doing in Iraq. Something like the end justifies the means, and as long as the end will be "democracy" then whatever crap is dished out to Iraqis should be palatable. Iraq for them is like a testing lab for US policies, if it works, then hey its a success, if it does not, then what the hell, it is only Iraqi resources that are being wasted, whether in life or assets.
Surely, if those people are so for "Bush's democracy", shouldn't they be inviting 150,000 American soldiers to their countries to free them? Why wait till 5/10 years from now to see if Iraq succeeds or not? How about now, time is of the essence over here. Let us take Egypt as an example; it is one of the most ruthless regimes in the world. Its president is preparing for a fifth term in office, he gets 97% and over in every presidential election he stands for (that’s if you call it an election).
In a country where 1% of the population holds 80% of the wealth, and 80% of the population holds only 1% of the wealth, where civil right are being trampled on a daily basis, where a “republic” is following the North Korean, and Syrian experiences of appointing son's of late-presidents to the presidency, the need for liberation is paramount. No ifs or buts or we wait till we see what’s happening in Iraq. I don't know why they don't call for the US to liberate them from their evil governments and are more focused on Iraq?
Your country should be your priority, and when it is fixed, you can branch out, it is that simple.

On the other hand we have the anti camp, most of them are armchair analysts, whom are willing to sacrifice every single Iraqi in their war against anything to do with the US. They don't get off their butt and do anything apart from talk, even simple things like boycotting American goods, which is a kind of simple gesture...If you open their wardrobes you will probably find Nike trainers, Gap jeans, and Abercrombie t-shirts... Their favourite drinks are either coca-cola or Starbuck's coffee while performing their daily ritual of discussing how bad the US is. Funny that those people forget that their countries are controlled by the US and can't do anything with out the consent of the white house. How about you work on your countries, surely they are more deserving and more of a priority than Iraq for the future of your sons and daughters, if you really believe that US influence is bad.

To both camps.... Leave us alone...you never helped Iraq, you just sat there and watched while Iraqis were being abused/killed and stripped of their humanity whether under Saddam or the present regime.

It is our problem and we will sort it out.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Got this via e-mail.

2004-05-11T01:19:00.000+01:00

I liked it

While visiting England, George W. Bush is invited to tea with the Queen. He asks her what her leadership philosophy is. She says that it is to surround herself with intelligent people. He asks how she knows if they're intelligent.

"I do so by asking them the right questions," says the Queen. "Allow me to demonstrate."

She phones Tony Blair and says, "Mr. Prime Minister. Please answer this question: Your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother or sister. Who is it?"

Tony Blair responds, "It's me, ma'am."

"Correct. Thank you and good-bye, sir," says the Queen. She hangs up and says, "Did you get that, Mr. Bush?"

"Yes ma'am. Thanks a lot. I'll definitely be using that!"

Upon returning to Washington, he decides he'd better put the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to the test. He summons Jesse Helms to the White House and says, "Senator Helms, I wonder if you can answer a question for me."

"Why, of course, sir. What's on your mind?"

"Uh, your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother or your sister. Who is it?"

Helms hems and haws and finally asks, "Can I think about it and get back to you?" Bush agrees, and Helms leaves. He immediately calls a meeting of other senior senators, and they puzzle over the question for several hours, but nobody can come up with an answer. Finally, in desperation, Helms calls Colin Powell at the State Department and explains his problem.

"Now look here Colin Powell, your mother has a child, and your father has a child, and this child is not your brother, or your sister. Who is it?" Powell answers immediately, "It's me, of course, you dumb ass."

Much relieved, Helms rushes back to the White House and exclaims, "I know the answer, sir! I know who it is! It's Colin Powell!" And Bush replies in disgust, "Wrong, you dumb ass, It's Tony Blair!"

The wacko strikes back.

2004-05-07T12:11:00.000+01:00

Gold for Jerry and Kofi

Why is it that whenever Bush is in trouble, the maniac rears his ugly head...could it be just mere coincidence or is there more to it than meets the eye?

Hmmmmm...

2004-05-06T05:32:00.000+01:00

ASSESSMENT OF DoD COUNTER-TERRORISM INTERROGATION AND DETENTION OPERATIONS IN IRAQ (MG MILLER’S ASSESSMENT)

1. (S/NF) The principal focus of MG Miller’s team was on the strategic interrogation of detainees/internees in Iraq. Among its conclusions in its Executive Summary were that CJTF-7 did not have authorities and procedures in place to affect a unified strategy to detain, interrogate, and report information from detainees/internees in Iraq. The Executive Summary also stated that detention operations must act as an enabler for interrogation. (ANNEX 20)

2. (S/NF) With respect to interrogation, MG Miller’s Team recommended that CJTF-7 dedicate and train a detention guard force subordinate to the Joint Interrogation Debriefing Center (JIDC) Commander that “sets the conditions for the successful interrogation and exploitation of internees/detainees.” Regarding Detention Operations, MG Miller’s team stated that the function of Detention Operations is to provide a safe, secure, and humane environment that supports the expeditious collection of intelligence. However, it also stated “it is essential that the guard force be actively engaged in setting the conditions for successful exploitation of the internees.”

What is interesting is the fact that Major General Geoffrey Miller is now in charge of occupation prisons in Iraq. The same guy who found it essential for the guard force to be actively engaged in whatever they were engaged in. It is quite disturbing for me at least.

An Iraqi term comes to mind right now..."hameeha harameeha"

Long Live Iraq

American Military Justice

2004-05-05T03:51:00.000+01:00

One US soldier has been convicted by the military behind closed doors of killing a prisoner by hitting him with a rock, officials said. He was reduced in rank to private and discharged from the service but did not serve any time in jail. A private contractor working for the CIA was also found to have killed a prisoner.

And you expect justice... what a joke.

Long Live Iraq

After all we freed Iraqis from Saddam,they should not be complaining.

2004-05-01T12:16:00.000+01:00

I was debating whether to post the photos circulated yesterday of Iraqis being tortured by US soldiers in this blog or not. I have decided against posting them, as they are not just a humiliating, and insulting to Iraqis but also to decent Americans as well. It is a strike against their belief in liberty, freedom, and human decency. These simple ideas that Americans cherish and stand for passionately.

To be quite honest with you, I was not shocked by the emergence of this story; I have read so many stories of systematic torture being committed against Iraqi prisoners, of course apologists/denialists have always swept these things under the carpet as some kind of propaganda.

I watched Bush yesterday, side by side with the Canadian prime minister trying to express his disgust at what happened. Looking at him, I just could not help but notice how hard he was trying to drop a tear here or there so that people can sympathise with him(The compassionate conservative that he is), it looked all fake to me, the harder he tried, the more evil and insincere he looked.
He has talked lots of rubbish over the term of his presidency, but yesterday, I have to agree with one thing he had said:

"Their treatment (the prisoners) does not reflect the nature of the American people.”

Yes George, it does not reflect upon the American people, I greatly believe in that statement. This kind of action, really reflects upon you, and your bankrupt ideology, it reflects upon the crazy freaks that follow you. It has nothing to do with decent Americans, who find such actions repulsive. George, you belong to an elite club, Hitler, Saddam, and Bin Ladin are past or present members among many, they probably feel proud seeing you in action.

You are a murder, and a terrorist no less than the other freaks. It is time that decent people of this world stop all of you loonies who belong to that elite murderous club.

And not to feel left out by their brothers in arms, the heroes of the British army, who were trained to the highest standard, were at it as well. You are so brave beating hooded and restrained people.

How Sad

2004-04-08T00:40:00.000+01:00

The Reaper and the Flowers

There is a Reaper, whose name is Death,
And, with his sickle keen,
He reaps the bearded grain at a breath,
And the flowers that grow between.

"Shall I have naught that is fair?" saith he;
"Have naught but the bearded grain?
Though the breath of these flowers is sweet to me,
I will give them all back again."

He gazed at the flowers with tearful eyes,
He kissed their drooping leaves;
It was for the Lord of Paradise
He bound them in his sheaves.

"My Lord has need of these flowerets gay,"
The Reaper said, and smiled;
"Dear tokens of the earth are they,
Where he was once a child."

"They shall all bloom in fields of light,
Transplanted by my care,
And saints, upon their garments white,
These sacred blossoms wear."

And the mother gave, in tears and pain,
The flowers she most did love;
She knew she should find them all again
In the fields of light above.

O, not in cruelty, not in wrath,
The Reaper came that day;
'T was an angel visited the green earth,
And took the flowers away.

Emily Brontë 1818-1848

(Thank you 3DJay)

Long Live Iraq

Why some Iraqis are surprised?

2004-04-04T00:47:00.000+01:00

Since the Falluja incident, I have come across lots of Iraqis who were angry, shocked and surprised at what happened to the 4 Americans who have died. While, I totally understand the first 2 sentiments, I find Iraqis being surprised at what happened a bit bewildering. There are various examples within the recent history of Iraq where dead people had been treated in the same manner. In 1941, with aid of the occupying British forces the prince regent of Iraq managed to orchestrate a coup within the state and in the process ordered the execution of what was alleged to be pro-Germany Iraqi army officers, their bodies were hanged from lampposts in front of the defence ministry for days as an example for others. As fate would have it the prince regent himself died the same way in 1958 when the Iraqi army took over power.
People would argue that these acts were done by people hungry for power. Well, that is true, but in 1959 ordinary people participated in the savagery, when Kurds, and communists descended on the towns of Kirkuk, and Mosul killing Turkmen, and Arabs in the process. Once Saddam came to power, he just took it to another level of viciousness. Also, should we not forget, the same fate happened to the Spanish soldiers serving in southern Iraq, where it is deemed to be a friendly territory.
As I see it in Iraq today, civil society institutions in Iraq are non existent. Even when they were, they did not play that major role in affecting the culture and tradition of the society. Ever since the creation of Iraq, it has been like a pressure cooker that is waiting to blow up. Every few years there was some kind of political upheaval (internally or externally) which put the Iraqi people in a very extreme position. Iraqis have always been faced with an ever upward spiralling circle of violence. The only language they know now is violence. I don’t think they think straight anymore, their perspective towards life is different. Images of death and cruelty have become normal to them, what others see as grotesque, is actually quite normal for Iraqis.
Nobody has suggested anything to fix the problem, whether it was Iraqis or others. The only thing people managed to do is to dehumanise others who perpetrated such actions, so that when they are hit hard, which will happen, nobody will be none too bothered, and infact will be supportive of the measures taken, although this will be counter productive and a failed policy in the end as violence will only begets violence. At the end of the day there are some underlying problems that have been there since before Saddam has come to power and they simply need to be fixed.
Iraq and Iraqis need to have a long period of peace and tranquillity, to heal them internally as they have never experienced this kind of life for any sustained period of time. A whole programme has to be created to teach them the values that here ordinary people in the west and other parts of the world take for granted. I only hope that it is not too late for such thing and we can walk away from the abyss we are standing in front of right now.

By the way, lynching, tying people to cars and supporting people who do such things are not just exclusive to Iraqis.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Has the world gone crazy, or is it business as usual?

2004-03-12T14:18:00.000Z

I was in the hospital today, and while waiting to pick up some medicine, a nurse from South Africa started talking to me. The main topic was about what happened to in Madrid yesterday, the nurse said that the "world has gone crazy", with all the bombing, and killing around us.

In my opinion, the world has not gone crazy, the only difference we have right now, is that whatever happens is beamed to our living rooms in a matter of minutes, and we can watch the events unfolding live more or less. The savagery of humans has always existed, its been there since the dawn of civilisation, the only difference is that people used to hear about it few months after the killing had happened. Even the Greeks who have set for us the basis of democracy, did indulge in some massacres of their own.

What worries me about this, is the fact that a large majority of people will try to justify what is happening today, and apply some spin on it, if the people who had committed those crimes were of the same race culture etc. They do not realise that a crime is a crime whether committed by people of the same creed or not, ordinary people are always at the receiving end. I could understand fanatics applying spin, but now even seemingly ordinary human beings are jumping on the band wagon. It is as if they are scared and be frowned upon if they do not go with current way of thinking. It is kind of either you conform or be ostarcised for the rest of your life. Am I being paranoid or we heading into a conformist world, where individualism is being eroded to accomodate for the the big picture that is being set up for us?

To the people who have sent me all those wonderful emails about the bombing in Madrid, it is news to me that ETA has decided to turn muslim and try to establish an Islamic empire in Spain. Just to clarify something over here, the Spanish government hold ETA as the primary suspect in the atrocity that happened yesterday. ETA is a Basque nationalist movenment that was founded in 1959 and is calling for the independence of the Basque region from Spain. It might be a disappointment to you, but they have nothing to do with Islam.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

A message to Iraq's enemies.

2004-03-04T15:23:00.000Z

This blog has been copied verbatim from another website. All I can say, God bless all of Iraq, Iraqis, and the friends of Iraq

"Look the emotion showing by this Kurdish Iraqi player when his team “Iraq” scored a goal today. Look how he hugged his Arabic Iraqi. Look at the black ribbon he is broadly wearing as a tribute to his brothers arabs victims. This picture tells it all.

In fact, today victory over Oman was a message of unity sent by these youngsters. These youngsters (kurd, arab, shi’at. Sunni), like all Iraqis, felt the pain of yesterday massacre. They entered the stadium wearing black ribbons. They put aside their grieve and gave one of the best performance by any Iraqi team. They gave everything they have so that they can deliver the following message to the rest of the world: ” we are belong to a great country, great people and nothing will bend or dent our will of rebuilding Iraq”. When you look at the emotions they exhibited after each goal they scored, the way they cuddled and hugged each other, the tears in their eyes, it really makes you feel your Iraqisms. We really should take a lesson from these gifted youngsters.

Good bless Iraq and its people (Kurds, Arabs, Turkmen, Assyrians)"

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Condolences

2004-03-03T01:17:00.000Z

I would like to offer my heartfelt condolences and deep sympathies to the families who have lost their loved ones yesterday. No amount of words will begin to describe your suffering, and agony of what you went, and are going through right now.

It is a black day for Iraq and Iraqis.

To the people who committed those filthy crimes

YOU WILL NEVER DEFEAT US

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Professional armies!!

2004-02-28T20:35:00.002Z

So if they do it to their own people, I wonder how many Iraqi/Afgani women have suffered the same fate.

While over here, the most experienced army in the world is showing its profesionalism and dedication to liberate and protect Iraqis from Saddam

But hey, Iraqis should not complain...Saddam has treated them even worse....A few killed here or there by the liberators does not matter...because in the end they had a reason to kill people in such manner. (For the people who are going to argue about how great and professional your armies are, just a pick a reason to justify the crimes committed, so that you can sleep soundly at night, knowing that those soldiers did the right thing, and spare myself and others your BS)

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Miscellaneous Stuff (Part 2)

2004-02-26T16:39:00.000Z

I have come to the conclusion that the GWB administration suffers from some kind of a split personality disorder. Recently, there was a big hoo-ha about the letter allegedly written by Abu musab al zarqawee in regards to the situation in Iraq.
This letter was published in the pro US Arabic daily Alhayat.Of course, nobody in the administration accused Alhayat of spreading hate or shown their revulsion because of the letter. In fact, in some circles there are suggestions that the administration gave the letter to Alhayat to publish. Compare that to their stance when Aljazeera broadcasts audio tapes of Bin Laden. All hell breaks loose, Aljazeera gets threatened and gets accused of everything under the sun. In the end, both audio tapes and the letter are of the calibre of crap alqaeda have entertained us with over the years. There is nothing new, why is it ok for Alhayat to publish that crap and not for Aljazeera?
The amusing thing in this whole episode is that Alhayat did not publish the letter as it is, but they got the Arabic translation of the English translation, of the original document. Must admit there are some bright sparks in action over here, why not just give them the original? Also, I often wonder if Aljazeera was owned by Rupert Murdoch, would the US administration be as vociferous in its objections as it is now? Personally, I don’t think so, the moment they say anything, Rupert’s boots would be so far up their backside that their roar would be seen more of a whimper.

Also, an interesting story has emerged recently in Khaleej (Sharjah) in regards to the Saddam oil bribes scandal. Some Iraqi guy from Sadr city claims to have forged the documents for money and other unspecified gifts. I do not doubt that Saddam has used such method, but the document produced few weeks ago appears to be questionable at this moment of time. Also, read Jihad Alkhazen of Alhayat 2 cents worth on the matter.

Finally,anybody who is interested in following Iraqi finances should visit Iraqi revenue watch. An excellent website with some good reports, it was created and supported by the Open Society institute. Highly recommended.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Miscellaneous Stuff

2004-02-19T17:24:00.000Z

I have been going through some Iraqi message boards lately, and came across the following:

“[Jawhar Hussain] What is your opinion about the Kurdish paper presented by the Kurdish members of the Governing Council regarding the project of federal system for Iraq in future?

[Paul Bremer] First we believe that it is important in the new Iraq to find an equation for balance of power between the Centre and the rest of the parts [regions] in the country as one of the problems of Iraq historically has been that the central power was concentrated and strong in Baghdad during the last 80 years. As happened with the regime of Saddam Hussain the dictatorial central authority became the total and totalitarian power. To avoid such a bitter experience there must be an effort to distribute power among the regions in federal system agreed [by all sides]. We according to this theory support the demands of the Kurds to obtain some local authorities provided that these do not surpass the limits of the national unity of Iraq. We in principle do not support any law that will be an initiative for separating any part of Iraq, as we strongly believe in the unity of Iraq. For information, we have explained our opinions to the leaders of the parties and told them we do not agree on the federalism proposed on ethnic and sectarian basis for Iraq an Kurdish leaders know that.”

Jerry, dude, what can I say, you seem to be the only politician ruling Iraq these days, whom genuinely wanting to preserve its territorial integrity. I raise my hat off to you for rejecting the calls for ethnic or sectarian federalism. If Iraqis do adopt a federal structure, then it should be along the same lines of the US or Germany, based on geography. We do not want another Yugoslavia in few years time. I really hope that you, and the US administration do not compromise on this issue ,and keep on advocating it and in the end implementing a sound and strong federal structure that serves all Iraqis, regardless of their background.

On another matter the NYTIMES has published the details of an agreement in regards to elections in Iraq (Free Registration). I just want to know, who was the evil bastard thinking of and proposing to disenfranchise 20-25% of the population and make them wait for their own representatives. So what happens if the low level warfare does not stop and keeps on going, do you intend to keep those people in limbo for an unspecified period of time? How does that equate with a free, democratic Iraq people are trying to achieve? Lots of countries have had troubles, and the people went to vote regardless of the danger. No group whatever the plan should be left behind, if there is a plan, then it should include all Iraqis. There should not be one law for us, and another for them.

On the mobile front, my cousin had to pay $250 to get her own phone and line in the end. This is called “DAY LIGHT ROBBERY”

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Rip off Iraq.

2004-02-14T15:40:00.000Z

Around the mid 90’s, the London based Times newspaper started a campaign called “Rip off Britain”. The campaign highlighted the differences in goods being paid by British consumers Vis a Vis their counterparts in Europe or the USA. In most cases, British consumers were being charged way over the odds prices.

I have decided to start my own campaign called “Rip off Iraq” from this webpage. I will choose a different company, and investigate whether they are over charging the consumers or not, if they are, then they will be named and shamed (I doubt that they have any shame ;))

Today, ORASCOM (the mobile network service provider around Baghdad, and the middle of Iraq) have earned the right to be the first company to enter the hall of shame. It all started 2 weeks ago, I was talking to a relative of mine and asked them to buy a mobile so that we can talk to them direct, as their land lines have not been fixed yet. It transpired that, it will cost approx $125 - $ 150 to setup the whole thing. If you happen to have your own mobile, and only need a sim card on its own (which is far a cheaper option), you will not be supplied with what you want, you have to buy the phone as well. Also, each month you have to buy airtime, and if you don’t use it by the end of the month, you lose it; it will not get rolled over to the next month.
A friend of the family, who is an authorised agent for ORASCOM in Baghdad, confirmed that this policy being adopted by the mobile company. Now, if you go to, Jordan or Syria, and apply for the same spec mobile and a smiliar tariff, it will cost you something around $50 - $70. In my opinion, in Jordan at least, the standard, and cost of living is higher than that of Iraq, so in some cases goods should be more expensive than in Iraq but to ORASCOM (who operates in Jordan) it is not.
Some people might argue, and point out that since, the mobile company is creating the entire infrastructure from scratch, with no government financial backing or assistance, unlike neighbouring countries, then they should dictate their own pricing policy, which in turn should reflect the investments and risks they have under taken. That argument holds true if, Iraq had charged the mobile networks a considerable amount of money for the operating licenses, but it did not, each company that won the contracts to operate, only paid $5 million for the licenses, this was done to help the companies offset the expenses they are undertaking in creating everything else. To compare,in Lebanon, the mobile service provider paid $100 million for the licenses, and Syria it was $250 million. The Iraqi market is definitely bigger than both countries combined, and $5 million does not reflect the huge potential of that market.

If people want to buy a mobile with line, a sim card on its own, or both, then Iraqi consumers should be able to have that right to do so, and not be dictated to buy what is on offer only.

Shame on you ORASCOM.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

With friends like these......

2004-02-10T13:33:00.000Z

This is a true story that happened to one of my close relatives who decided to visit Baghdad. Since Iraq has no direct flights going into it, most Iraqis go to Amman-Jordan, and then rent a car that takes them straight to Baghdad. On the way to Baghdad at the border the driver of the rented car turns around to my relative and asks her for $20, so that he can payoff the policeman, who will in turn wave them through, bypassing the usual checks and inspection procedures. After being paid the $20 the policeman at the border, let them through without even a glance at the car .I was really pissed off at that incident, imagine if somebody was smuggling drugs, weapons, or any other banned products. For $20 you can do some serious damage to ordinary people.
But then again, when you think of it, the policeman is only trying to make a living, his action seems to be minute, to the fact that people at the top are indulging in siphoning millions if not billions out of Iraq. Till now, the CPA won’t account to $ 4 billion out of Iraq money, and where it spent it. On the Iraqi side, rumours are rife that bidding for the mobile networks in Iraq was not transparent, that in turn has prompted the pentagon general inspector to open an internal investigation to ascertain what really had happened in the tendering process. The latest financial scandal comes from our Interior minister (related to one of the IGC members through marriage), who authorised the transfer of 9.5 billion new Iraqi Dinars to Lebanon, when challenged on the issue, he claimed that it was some payment for some companies. Just want to say to the dude… Haven’t you heard of bank transfers, and other transparent banking methods to deliver money, it really beats the mafia style operation you have run in smuggling those Dinars?

It seems like when it comes to money, there is no difference between what Saddam did, and few of our new leaders, in cheating the nation out of its wealth.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Aljazeera Banned

2004-02-05T13:54:00.000Z

Few days ago the IGC banned Aljazeera. While I’m very critical of Aljazeera’s current affairs programs, which place Iraq and Iraqis in bad light on most occasions, I have to admit that their news are top notch in regards to daily affairs. It’s kind of an alternative to that of CNN and FOX news. The ban stemmed from a program (It was discussing Israeli infiltrations inside Iraq), which accused a minister of being an agent of some country security services (I think it was Czechoslovakia) when he used to live there. The accusations that were lobbed at the minister at the time were in my opinion defamatory, and there was nothing to back them up apart from gossip and rumours. But, I have to disagree with the ban concept, the IGC, should have taken legal action to protect the minister involved. What they have done reminds me of the time where Saddam passed laws which more or less stated, “you are either with us or against us”. As an Iraqi, I would like the IGC to rescind the ban, take legal action against Aljazeera, and make them pay in a law of court. This will teach Iraqis in particular, that even the people in power will refer to the courts if they were wronged, and falsely accused, instead of handing out punishments like Saddam used to do in kangaroo courts or no courts at all. The IGC should not miss this chance, and make a shining example of itself to follow.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Read & Understand

2004-02-03T10:16:00.000Z

Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime

By acknolewdging past mistakes, and moving forward to correct them, you will be doing a great service to future generations.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

US involvement in arming Saddam.

2004-02-02T00:30:00.000Z

"P.S. The US did not give Saddam chemical weapons. The Center for Disease Control in Atlanta sent Iraq samples of biological samples to be used for disease prevention, which we did for a great many countries, including the former Soviet Union. It's a quantum leap from germ samples to weaponized biological arms. We did not supply them with the technology to convert simple germs on a petri dish to weapons of mass destruction. We NEVER supplied Iraq with chemical weapons!"

I was reading the comments section and came across the above. I beg to differ with this analysis; the US was involved in arming Saddam, supplying him anything from military trucks to WMD components. . This would not have been done without the tacit approval of successive US administrations in providing political/financial help. The link I have provided, is the most detailed list of US companies providing technical know how, and products for his war machine. I have not checked all companies, but look at "UNION CARBIDE's" involvement in exporting the chemical Xylene.

There is no point in denying these facts, whats done is done. I'm sure that if we had the ability to go back in time and change things, then most people would have changed the policy of supporting Saddam, unfortunately, we can't. Today, the onus is on you to prevent this from happening to another nation, you must hold your government accountable at every turn for dealing with dictators, and supporting them. The end does not justify the means. Bin Laden was created/backed by the CIA, only to come back later and haunt them. The biggest WMD's to ordinary people is not nuclear/biological/chemical weapons, but it is the dictators who rule them, and other governments who back them.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

4/02/2004 15:34 GMT

I must admit, I found the comments going back and forth quite disturbing. The purpose of this blog was to correct the information of somebody, who was either ill informed or ignorant of the US involvement in arming Saddam. It was not to point finger or accuse anybody.

I’m still puzzled at the way some people concluded that this blog is “ I hate America” blog, and preceded to attack on that basis. If a French/German/Russian, person had said “WE NEVER SUPPLIED” any chemicals to Saddam, I would have, corrected his/her information, as it happens, the person I was replying to was American.

Furthermore, I would like to thank all of my readers who found new enthusiasm towards chemistry, and went on to teach us about Xylene. You could have just clicked on the link I have provided, it explains what Xylene is. I just would like to point out, that all of you budding chemists, were not able to disprove the fact Xylene was used in Saddam’s chemical warfare program, while the “real experts” did prove it was used. I could not care less what it was used for. It could have been used as a primary, secondary, or a cleaning agent, but it was used, and that’s the main point.

Lastly, to the moron who accused me of being alqaeda member/sympathiser. I would like to ask you, where did you get your info from? Please do share, Its news to me. Also, I have got a suggestion for you, instead of accusing people on the net, where it does not matter, why don’t you join homeland security, I hear there are opening for rats there, and besides you can do some decent damage to decent people while getting paid for it. Beats anything you are doing on the net for free buddy

Long Live Iraq

Japenese Story

2004-02-01T01:07:00.000Z

Got this through email by one of the Japanese readers. I'm not sure what to make of it, but would like to share it with you. It might shed some light on the reluctance of the Japanese in general for sending their boys to Iraq.

As for me, I just would like to say, that their soldiers are going there to perfom a noble mission. They will be helping our people stand on their feet again and lead a normal life. It won't be easy, but we are ever thankful for their contribution.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Libya

2004-02-01T00:52:00.000Z

It seems that the final rehabilitation process of the madman of Tripoli (Qadafi) is underway. Few months ago, the UK and the US settled their last differences with him in regards to Lockerbie. In a bit of a theatrical moment, he has also given up his WMD’s programme (Not that there was anything of use). The world today is ready again to deal with this guy. Libya has not changed to the better, it is still ruled by a corrupt dictator. Abuse of human rights is widely prevalent, democracy is as far as ever, and nepotism is the name of the game. Unfortunately, western governments have adopted the mantra of “business as usual”, and are getting ready for some lucrative contracts in rebuilding the Libyan economy. Today, people who live in democratic countries have a historic duty, and a golden opportunity to pressure their governments to extract real concessions from Qadafi, effect real changes, and reforms in Libya for the benefit of its own people. Ordinary people should not compromise on this issue; it is in their best interest to bring about a democratic Libya, that in turn will start a snowball effect in North Africa. Make your voice heard, and pester your representatives, there is no better time than the one we are in right now, it should not be “business as usual” until real changes have taken place.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

What If?

2004-01-30T00:10:00.002Z

I was talking to my Iranian friend the other day. We were mainly discussing the last couple of years during the Shah's regime, and the onset of demonstrations by people demanding his removal. My friend looked around and said, " If I knew back then what I know now, I would have shot and killed all those people. I would not have shown them any mercy. Look at Iran now compared to the 70's, things were definitely better".

Now that got me thinking, If I had the chance to go back in time and kill Saddam or change events by killing few people, would I do that? I'm a person who believes in non-violence, but then again is this act of single violence worth it or not?
Also, is killing Saddam an event that will change history to the better, or do you go even further and change events which you believe had an even greater effect on Iraq, which in turn produced and delivered Saddam?

The question still remains, will I be able to pull the trigger, and kill somebody, knowing what I know now back then, or just let things go as they were planned? I must admit, it is a very difficult question to answer, for me at least.

Anyway, have a nice weekend all, and see you next week.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Some Bad News for Iraqi Football (Soccer)

2004-01-28T16:04:00.002Z

Before I start my rant for today, I would like to give you some background information about Football in Iraq.
Football is the number one sport in Iraq, by far; it outstrips any other sport in popularity. In the 70’s and 80’s Iraq produced some of the best and strongest teams ever to grace Arab and Asian football fields. Then came the war in Kuwait, and Uday’s ever increasing involvement with the football setup. It was a long and bloody nightmare for this sport, just like it was for Iraq, and Iraqis as well.

Anyway, I read a few days back about Mr.Adnan Hamad (Iraq Olympic football team coach) deciding to accept an offer from the Lebanese to train their national and Olympic outfits. Adnan Hamad holds a special place in the psyche of Iraqi footballing fans. In the year 2000 he coached the Iraqi youth team, which won the Asian cup held in Iran, on their way, the Iraqis beat the 3 top teams in Asia, the South Koreans, Iranians, and the Japanese in the final. This win was the first after a barren spell of more than a decade where Iraq has won nothing due to lack of investment and Uday. The amount of general good feeling this win generated was immense. We were absolutely proud of this achievement; we beat teams, which spent millions on their teams, while we were operating on a shoestring budget. Hamad also went on to coach a couple of Iraqi teams, which won some Arab cups later on.

The Iraqi Olympic team will start the Athens qualifiers in just over 1 month, and we have lost one of our brightest managers. I know that it is not safe in Iraq these days, and he has every right to seek employment somewhere else to earn his living, and guarantee his future. But we are talking about somebody who is not ordinary, lots of people look up to him. What kind of message does he send, when he decides to pack his bags and disappear? Why was he allowed to leave? Shouldn’t the people responsible at least attempt to keep him? To date, nobody has answered these questions.

Mr.Adnan Hamad, I wish you all the best in your new adventure, and achieve the highest standards you are capable of. I know that you will not do much, not because you are lacking, but football in Lebanon is schoolboy’s stuff. I will never forget the feeling of happiness, and pride we went through, while watching our team in Iran, beating all comers, it was simply fantastic. I’m sorry to say, you have let your players, fans, people, and more importantly your country down in its hour of need.

On a different note,there is an American lady who is trying to organise a fundraiser for the Iraqi football team, if you can help her in any way shape or form please do so. (Don’t get dispirited by the arguments going back and forth, the main aim here is to help the Iraqi football team)

BTW, Why do Americans call it “soccer”? Where is this word derived from? I thought the word football is more self explanatory, and descriptive?

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Law No. 137

2004-01-27T22:55:00.003Z

The latest hot topic being discussed among Iraqis, is IGC Law 137 passed in late December. The best explanation I have read, is the one written by riverbend under the title "shari'a and family law",I totally agree with her assessment and there is no need to add my 2 cents worth.
I just would like to point out that, the Arab development report sponsored by the UN in 2002, praised and regarded Iraq as the leading country in the middleast enshrining laws that achieve equality for women. I guess with the passing of the recent law we have lost that standing.
What I would like to comment on is a news report I saw on Sunday on Aljazeera channel. Aljazeera reported that there was demonstration of women who are supporting this law, which I found quite odd. I just want to understand how can these women support a law which,

1. Makes it easier for men to marry a 2nd, 3rd, wife?
2. Strip the advantages they have in cases of divorce?
3. Makes them lose out in cases of inheritance?
4. Allows little girls to get married as soon as they hit puberty, with their father’s consent?
5. Allow men to wed in Zawaj Motaa (temporary marriage)? (Prostitution by the back door)

Don’t get me wrong I believe in the right of people demonstrating, but demonstrators usually take to the streets to demand a better life for themselves, not the other way around.

The other thing I saw, is a woman being asked about the law, I did not really listen to her, but what was interesting is the way she started her answer. She said “Mr.Albdul Aziz Al-Hakim (IGC president for the month of December) hafathahoo Allah (God protects him)…” This title of (God protects him) was reserved for Saddam, no official document, newspaper, and TV show forgot to mention that title, if they did, I believe there would have been serious consequences. So do we have another Saddam on our hand in religious cloth?

I think it is quite frightening the lurch into politicised Islam in Iraq by lots of people. Political Islam in Iraq will never unite the country but will make it more divided, which might lead to civil war in the end. I really do hope ordinary people realise that before it is too late, and start moving away from it.

Finally, I would like to thank Bush, and his right wing freaks for unleashing and appeasing this force in Iraq. Iran tried for 8 years through a bloody war to change Iraq into a theocracy, and it failed miserably. The USA is doing it in less than a year. Khomeini must be dancing in his grave.

LONG LIVE IRAQ

Mission Statement & House Rules

2004-01-26T03:56:00.000Z

Mission Statement
I'm an Iraqi guy who lived most of his life outside Iraq. My parents had the foresight to realise that the country was going down the drain, and decided to leave before it was too late. I'm quite proud of the fact that I had never lived one day under the rule of Saddam.

This blog is the ravings and rantings of an outsider peering into the inside. Unfortunately, I do not have the advantage of other Iraqi bloggers who live inside reporting on their daily lives, and experiences. I will mostly comment on political/social events that are affecting Iraq. If there any specific events that happened in Iraq and I mention them, then be aware that they will be second hand information gained through my friends and relatives living there.

House Rules
1. This blog is not intended to be politically correct. So, if you get offended/upset/angry by any of my comments, then *TOUGH*

2. In due course, I will add a comments section. This will be the readers zone, I will not respond to any questions or do admin work to control it. All I ask from readers is to mind their manners and not use abusive words if they happen to disagree with anybody. Discuss the idea and not the person.However, if I find something interesting, I will comment on it in later blogs.

3. Don't bother sending long emails reminding me of the fact that I don't live in Iraq. I openly admit that.

4. Abusive/Hateful/Deathwish.. etc..emails will be posted in the blog with sender's email visible, so that he/she can be pestered by others, if they feel like it.

5. I will add any other rules as I go along.

Welcome to Iraqi Spirit Blog... Lets roll