Sunnis and Shiites Join Forces in Rebuilding Iraq
One step closer to getting the nation back on its feet, the Iraqi government made an effort to unite rival sects of Islam on Wednesday when it incorporated 54,000 Sunni militia men known as the Sons of Iraq into its structure. This outreach, backed by the United States, is part of a larger plan to absorb nearly 100,000 Sunni Muslims into the Shiite-led government and to employ them in the military, police force and other government agencies.The purpose of these efforts is to alleviate distrust between the parties and to give Sunni Muslims a greater hand in the future of Iraq.
The Sons of Iraq, who up until this point had operated under US authority, apparently felt betrayed by the United States. They had helped American forces in Iraq curb support for Al Qaeda and quell insurgencies but were fearful that they would face discrimination in the Shiite-dominated government. The Iraqi government has its own concerns though, as leaders question whether these Sunni Muslims will be loyal to the ideals and purposes set forth and whether they will be patient enough during the incorporation process.
Only 20% of the expected 100,000 will remain in the military or police force, and the plan is for others to either work as government bureaucrats or to be trained for skilled work in mechanics or carpentry. How well the Sunni militia men take this news will be something to look out for in the near future.
Haley Hackendale
