Centrifugal Forces in Iraq - Killing the Moderates

Despite signs of reconciliatory progress in Iraq, it seems disruptive elements have certainly not given up the fight. One potential tactic for extremist groups, whatever their ilk, has always been the assassination of prominent leaders perceived as moderates. Earlier this month a bomb attack in the western Iraqi town of Ramadi killed Sheik Abdul Sattar Abu Resha, the leader of the much-celebrated "Anbar Awakening" that led to an impressive ouster of al Qaeda from that province. Similar events may be unfolding in southern Iraq where various Shia groups vie for power. Two aids for Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani were shot recently, raising the number of Sistani's aids killed since June to five. Sistani, an extremely powerful voice in Shia Iraq, has consistently used his influence to restrain violence. The death of Sheik Sattar and the continued attempts on the life of Sistani, of course, raise the fundamental question for Iraq's future - are the centrifugal forces stronger than the ones looking to hold it together?

Star This to Save in Your Profile