Iraq: Time to Partition?

[Ayatollah So]

I agree with Col Jack on this point:

Finally, we Americans can do a lot of things in Iraq, but there’s one thing we can’t do with any effectiveness: tell the Iraqis what to do.

About the best realistic scenario is that the Iraqi factions fight until their relative strengths are established for all to see, then come to some semi-reasonable compromise. Whether that compromise divides Iraq or not, will be up to them. IMHO it's better not to divide, but they won't be asking me.

 

[The Yankee]

And if these factions choose to determine their own destinies on their own, do we stand in the way of that? No matter how badly the situation may play out in the short-term?

 

[warpus]

And if these factions choose to determine their own destinies on their own, do we stand in the way of that? No matter how badly the situation may play out in the short-term?

The Middle East must remain as stable as possible; I believe this was one of the stated goals of your administration..

You created a mess.. you should stick around and keep it stable.. Otherwise Iran will reap the benefits of a weakened neighbour, IMO.

 

[The Yankee]

I think Iran benefits no matter what and that's just a reality we have to deal with. With Iran's influence on the rise, expect them to have more of a say with the Shi'a communities along the Persian Gulf in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. That's also where large amounts of oil are located.

Whether those Shi'a Arabs would be open to Iranian leadership is still another thing to be determined.

 

[innonimatu]

The Middle East must remain as stable as possible; I believe this was one of the stated goals of your administration..

You know, looking at the actions, not the statements, I'd say the goal is to maintain the Middle East as unstable as possible...