Influential security analyst: Iraq in civil war

[sabra]

http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/news_theswamp/2006/10/expert_iraq_in_.html#comments

Expert: Iraq in civil war

Anthony Cordesman of Center for Strategic and International Studies, one of Washington’s most influential security analysts, has concluded that based on the present level of violence in Iraq, that the country is engulfed in a civil war.

Until now, Cordesman, who isn’t prone to hyperbole, just the opposite, has warned of the ever increasing risks of civil war. But he has apparently seen enough.

...


“When any of these sources of such numbers are put in the broader perspective that wounded almost always exceed killed, and that 100,000s of Iraqis are being displaced or exiled, the resulting totals range from around 2% to more than 5% of the total population.

“In addition, kidnappings, extortions, and intimidations affect much of Iraq, and are common in Baghdad, Kirkuk, and Basra, (40% of the population) and in Anbar, Ninewa, Salah al-Din, Diyala, and Baghdad Provinces (about 45% of the total territory). Sectarian violence is also rising in the Tarneem and Najaf Provinces.

“This is a civil war.” (His emphasis)

[SpreadItAround]

1. No matter how many people say it...

...BushCo will continue to deny that it's happening and Rice and Rummy will continue to say that we're making progress.

[JuniperLea]

2. Oh my goodness gracious! You are so right...

It pains me to say so, but you are right.

And there are gaggles of people who believe every word those liars speak.