MP says Iraqi politics will be key factor in this battle
Today the Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP, gave a statement to the House of Commons regarding IS in Iraq and Syria. He painted a realistic assessment as to the challenges facing those opposing the Islamic State.
John said,
“May I encourage caution against those who advocate increased military intervention in Iraq or Syria? Our track record over the last decade in understanding the nuances of the region is not good, whether judged by our invasion of Iraq in 2003, the disastrous morphing of the Afghan mission in 2006, Libya, or indeed our different positions regarding the Syrian civil war.”
“But when it comes to the politics in Baghdad, is the Foreign Secretary concerned that the layer of personalities immediately below the present Iraqi leadership has essentially remained the same as under the previous leadership, and that this makes an inclusive form of politics less likely?”
The Foreign Secretary agreed that Baghdad was now in the last chance saloon, that it was extremely important to reach out to Sunni tribal leaders, and that if a more inclusive form of politics was not adopted, then the battle would be lost.
John said afterwards,
“Soldiers only buy time. Only the politicians and administrators can deliver a lasting solution. But the omens are not good. This places greater emphasis on the need for our regional allies to play their part in getting the Sunni north on board.”
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tnx for info!!…