The UK Telegraph did everything they could to make this sound like a bad thing.
But releasing most of the Sunni insurgents held without charges is a fundamental precondition to national reconciliation, and one of the three impediments that the Maliki government has been dragging their feet on. The other two are reform in the debaathification process and disbanding Shiite militia (which was to some degree supported with Sadr’s claim to suspending operations a few days ago.)
This is good news all over, but you’d never know it from the UK Telegraph.
Another piece of momentous news from Iraq was reported here:
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1887034/posts
But, I have not heard a single word about this from the doomsayer chorus on the major network news shows.
I think this is all of a piece - one that paints a picture of vindication for George W. Bush.
The test of the release reported by Bob McFarlane:
By the Mercy of Allah
Thanks be to God and Peace be Upon His Prophet and His Family and Friends
On the date of 22nd August 2007, in Cairo, Egypt in two continuous meetings, the present situation in Iraq has been discussed with all its problems and complexities. After long discussions all those meeting have decided it is necessary to begin a process of engagement including the highest level of religious leaders as soon as possible. This engagement will focus on reducing violence, and working together for peace, the ending of terrorist violence and the disbanding of militia activities in order to build a civilised country and to work in the framework of law. Those listed have committed to:
1 To form a preparatory committee to bring in the recommendations of the above
2 To work toward the spreading of the Spirit of Unity and brotherhood
3 To commit to meeting together every 15 days
4 To actively engage with other influential and proactive religious leaders with the highest qualifications in order to issue a comprehensive (Sunni and Shia) Fatwa against violence
Sheikh Dr Ahmed Al Kubasi
Ayatollah Ammar Abu Ragheef
Sheikh Fateh Kashif Al Ghittah
Sheikh Dr Abdul Latif Humayeem
Sheikh Mustapha Al Jabory
It may seem a modest achievement. But according to Mr. McFarlane, Sheikh Ahmed al Kubaisi whose name is among those who signed on, is Iraq’s senior Sunni religious leader. His Friday sermons, which are broadcast each week from Dubai, reach an estimated 20 million people. His word carries weight, so it is not unreasonable to believe something will come of this initiative.