U.S. Troops Educated About Ramadan

[leftchick]

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=540&ncid=736&e=2&u=/ap/20031025/ap_on_re_mi_ea/iraq_ramadan_jitters

<snip>MOSUL, Iraq - No eating, drinking or smoking in public: That word is going out to American soldiers in Iraq (news - web sites) as Muslims prepare to observe the holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

During Ramadan, expected to begin Sunday, Muslims are supposed to abstain from food, drink, cigarettes and sex during daylight hours. It is a time for reflection, when religious feelings run strong.

The U.S.-led coalition is clearly concerned that those feelings could erupt into violence against American troops by religious Iraqis deeply offended that their country will be spending Ramadan under military occupation by non-Muslims.

"We have made sure all our forces are well aware of the implication of Ramadan," said Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, commander of U.S. and coalition troops.

[sistersofmercy]

1. I've been wondering what the coalition will do during Ramadan.

I hope that all of the troops will be respectful to Iraqis on this important Muslim holiday.

[lebkuchen]

2. No frisking them with dogs

or pressing their heads to the ground w/military boots...that sort of thing?

[bluestateguy]

3. Somehow, I get the feeling a few soldiers will piss all over Ramadan

and it will cause a lot of anger out there.

[Robb]

4. "well aware of the implication of Ramadan"

e.g., "Just before sunset, their blood sugar is at its lowest, and resistance will be weak." :eyes: