But I have in the past stated that just such a thing would occur:
Members of United States-allied Awakening Councils have quit or been dismissed from their positions in significant numbers in recent months, prey to an intensive recruitment campaign by the Sunni insurgency, according to government officials, current and former members of the Awakening and insurgents.
Although there are no firm figures, security and political officials say hundreds of the well-disciplined fighters — many of whom have gained extensive knowledge about the American military — appear to have rejoined Al Qaeda in Mesopotamia. Beyond that, officials say that even many of the Awakening fighters still on the Iraqi government payroll, possibly thousands of them, covertly aid the insurgency.
The defections have been driven in part by frustration with the Shiite-led government, which Awakening members say is intent on destroying them, as well as by pressure from Al Qaeda. The exodus has accelerated since Iraq’s inconclusive parliamentary elections in March, which have left Sunnis uncertain of retaining what little political influence they have and which appear to have provided Al Qaeda new opportunities to lure back fighters.
NYT
Hmm. Imagine that. Sunnis would rather have their share of government services and presentation than lick Maliki's boots. How dreadfully selfish. Don't they know it makes us look bad?
ReplyDeleteSaudi Arabia is at it again.
ReplyDeleteThey are afraid of al-Sadr.
They would like to dismiss him, bu they can not.
This is/has also been a Saudi-Iran proxy war.
The Kurds are patiently waiting their turn.
So, explain this to us. Since the Obama administration claimed credit for the "victory," will they also take the blame when it all goes to hell?
ReplyDeleteJust askin'
SF, you'll have to ask somebody who can speak for the Obama Administration....I've made these predictions since 2007, when I saw Iranian political and military influence first hand.
ReplyDelete