[WaterDragon]

I hear ya. But what was astounding to me was that there hasn't been a blood-bath. Under that horrible oppression people often did things they wouldn't normally do, such as snitching on each other to avoid danger for their own families. I was surprised that they aren't killing each other over that.

About the looting, I cannot conceive that had I lived in those conditions for so long that I would not have gone on a grabbing spree myself. The looting is utterly different, in my opinion, from the looting during race riots in this country -- most of which has been done by people already into the criminal life, while decent (poor) folks cowered in their homes.

The way the military handled this war, and the way they are handling the Iraqis now fills me with admiration and gratitude.

[WOSG]

About the looting, I cannot conceive that had I lived in those conditions for so long that I would not have gone on a grabbing spree myself.

Indeed. Saddam stole billion$ from the people of Iraq, put the money into palaces and prisons, and the 4 million residents of baghdad woke up one morning and found he and the whole govt were gone. What better revenge for an impoverished iraqi than to take saddam's bathroom "throne".

As for some of the real thefts, like the museum hit, those are now being reported as professionally done. surprise surprise.

[Theresa]

"I hear ya. But what was astounding to me was that there hasn't been a blood-bath. "

That is so true. It is to their credit.