War protests: Your verdict

War protests: Your verdict

Anti-war protesters took to the streets en masse throughout the world again this week to voice opposition to the conflict in Iraq.

The Stop The War Coalition in Britain are co-ordinating protests targeting Labour MPs "who broke their word to constituents never to support a war without UN authority", the group's chairman Andrew Murray said.

Your peace protest photos

In pictures

On Friday tens of thousands of Iranians took part in the first big anti-war demonstration in Iran. There were other protests in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Egypt and Jordan, and in Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Do you think the protests still serve a purpose? Are you taking part in any of the marches?

The following comments reflect the balance of views we have received

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This debate is now closed. Read your comments below.

Your reaction:

If it was important to protest before the crime was committed it is even more important to protest now the crime is in progress.
Robin, England

Does pacifism mean peace? Why then are protesters wearing "Hate USA" badges? Does pacifism mean non-violence? Why then are the peace protesters in many countries so obviously violent?
Cassandra, Arcadia

War protests should be taken seriously by USA and Britain but their leaders have closed their hearts and minds to our voices. What guarantee can they give us that tomorrow's world will be better without Saddam?
Azim Khan, Pakistan

I fully support the right of people worldwide to protest and express their opinions. My advice is to focus on presenting a clear argument and support it with factual information. The coalition claims that on top of Saddam's well-known atrocities against his own people, he possesses weapons of mass destruction and that his regime is not one the world can have confidence in. These are valid and proven arguments. We all know that war in general is horrible, but tell us why this war should not be carried through to completion? I have my reservations and I question this war daily, yet the facts above speak for themselves.
Jim Bongiovanni, New Jersey, USA

Protesting is a basic liberty everyone should have. Surely the US, as well as many other countries, has built its own monster by arming Saddam in the past. Every nationality has paid for this terrible mistake in blood, whether Iraqi or Kuwaiti; American or Iranian; Syrian or British. But to stick my head in the sand and ignore the fact that the average Iraqi citizen is denied basic freedoms while I live relatively like a king with clean water and unlimited media choices, would be hypocrisy of the greatest magnitude.
David Williamson, USA

I'll be happy when the cause of the day is supporting the whales again

Suzanne Wegner, NY, USA

There is no reason why these anti-war protestors should be protesting anymore, the war has started and we are knee-deep into it. Our governments are not going to pull troops out now because a bunch of people are holding protests. Now is the time when every citizen of the US and UK should be supporting their troops and their countries. I'll be happy when the cause of the day is supporting the whales again.
Suzanne Wegner, NY, USA

The current pro-war media bias in the USA justifies the role of anti-war protesters who present an alternative view. I salute the anti-war protesters as they stand by their principals which are in stark contrast to those of Bush, who took the soft option during the Vietnam War, and Cheney who will benefit financially from Iraq's reconstruction.
Mo, South Africa

If we listened to these protesters all the time the world would be full of Saddam Husseins and we would not have any civil liberties.
John White, England

I agree with the anti-war protests and have been on two marches in Perth. We must send a message to our governments in the coalition that we do not want this war fought in our name. Saddam I agree must go but not at the expensive of the entire Iraqi people. Haven't they suffered enough?
Kate Dorrington, Australia

The anti-war protests we are witnessing all around the world are a symbol of solidarity with the victims of this mad war being waged by a bunch of butchers. These protests should indeed spread and continue non-stop.
Sam, Hong Kong, China

People like Saddam Hussein are not members of the local Rotary Club who respond to a stiffly worded letter

Barry P, England

I am protesting vigorously against the suppression of human rights, religious persecution and political denial for millions. I support the war. Those who protest against this current war seem to forget that people like Saddam Hussein are not members of the local Rotary Club who respond to a stiffly worded letter. The only thing that works on some regimes is force, ultimate force applied to the right place. Perhaps one of the anti-war protestors would be so good as to inform me how exactly to deal with threats made by people such as Saddam Hussein. Please don't say talk - that has been tried for more than 20 years.
Barry P, England

The most vile adjectives, hyped accusations and anger from the protesters have been directed towards Bush and Blair rather than the Saddam regime. It's always bewildering and interesting to me that the protesters are more vocal and active towards the leaders of two democracies than towards a brutal dictator. It really makes one wonder if they really care about the Iraqi people when they ignore the proven systematic torture of the people of Iraq. For some odd reason you never hear a peep from these people about the treatment of the Iraqi people by Saddam. Why is this? Are they fans of Saddam or just blinded by hatred of the US and UK?
Douglas Mozingo, Daytona Beach, USA

I'm well aware withdrawing troops now would probably be more disastrous than going in the first place, but I will still protest to say not in my name. I want to add my voice to millions of other global voices that stand out against the ruthless oppression of the majority of the world. I implore readers to make sure they keep up their research. I whole-heartedly believe that one must research both sides of the argument. Perhaps this will allow people to choose their heroes more appropriately.
Sam Miles, UK

Our governments have lied to us, the media has lied to us and now pro-war supporters are lying to themselves. The war was illegal and completely immoral before it started and that is still the case. Protests are even more valid now than before the slaughter started. I have no objection to those who support the war as long as they realise that the only reason people are dying is so they can have enough petrol to run their cars for the next 15 years.
Craig Milne, Scotland

Most protesters in the USA seem to be from the rent-a-mob job agency

Fran, USA

I haven't participated in any anti-war protests. Most protesters in the USA seem to be from the rent-a-mob job agency. When several protesters were interviewed, not one knew what they were supporting. There have been huge pro-troop and pro-president rallies in this country.
Fran, USA

If the anti-war protestors are so happy with the Iraqi regime then why don't they move to Iraq and see if they have a chance of voicing their opinions over there?
Lori Bennett, England

If we had listened to the gutless cowards who never wish to defend anyone, including themselves, then we would still be British colonies today or we would be all speaking German. Thank God for a president who understands the big picture and is willing to do the unpopular for the good of the world. History will be much kinder to the president and Tony Blair than anyone can see right now. The majority isn't always right.
Kevin T McHale, USA

Protest still serves a purpose. This war is illegal, immoral and I don't want it in my name. The very least I can do is continue to say this. If I do not, what will Bush and Blair do next? I don't believe a single one of the British troops in Iraq joined the armed forces intending to break international law and fight an illegal war. My job now is to tell Mr Blair and this government to support these honest men and women by bringing the troops home. It is not proving an easy matter for the government to drag people along. Protest serves a growing purpose.
Alison Carroll, UK

During the Vietnam War it took the protest movement about 10 years to take hold. The protesters were a very vocal minority but history has proven, unequivocally, that the "peaceniks" of the 60s were in the right. Keep on speaking out against this immoral attack on innocent civilians.
G Douglas Ray, USA

The tide will turn during election time when the now powerless will transform to the powerful

M Mwembu, California, USA

The anti-war protesters feel powerless because they receive a deaf ear from those supporting the war. The tide will turn during election time when the now powerless will transform to the powerful. The US presidency will be up for grabs in November 2004. The majority who feel economically and socially betrayed will exercise their right in the voting booths.
M Mwembu, California, USA

If I thought either protesting for or against the war would shorten it I would. This is out of our hands and in the hands of the military.
Dave, Houston, Texas USA

The US government failed to have a deep and meaningful debate about the consequences of Bush's war. Now the people must correct a failed system.
Mark Leach, USA

There is a famous gypsy curse - may you get what you hope for. I wonder how the anti-war protesters would feel if they got their wish and the US and UK bowed down to their wishes and pulled out of Iraq, signalling to Saddam that no amount of brutality on his part would be so terrible it would cost him his job. These anti-war protests are the reason so many innocents continue to die. They give Saddam hope that this war would end if only he got enough civilians killed in the process of fighting to stay in power.
Suhas Joshi, Indian in USA

The war machine is in motion and it does not listen to either side

Merrily Mccarthy, California, USA

The war began 10 days ago so why protest now? Protesting after it has started does no good. The war machine is in motion and it does not listen to either side.
Merrily Mccarthy, California, USA

Lets have a pro-war protest and campaign to get all the people that support Saddam (and that is what they do every time they appear on our streets crippling our troops) a free ride to one of his palaces! What side are these people on? There is a war going on - it is not a video game! You can protest against the war on our streets because these troops and their predecessors fought so you could - think about it.
Rob Canavan, England

Protesting is the only way to get our message to the government. If we do not protest then the government will get the impression that we have agreed to their unjust war.
Romana, Zimbabwe

All the anti-war protesters are expressing a point of view but theirs is not the only point of view. Simply because those of us who support these actions on Iraq don't carry placards does not mean we are in short supply.
Emmanuel Feyisetan, UK

I'll go on demonstrating for peace and justice

Martin Timson, Liverpool, England

The war on Iraq is immoral and illegal. It must be stopped. Mass protests, strikes, demonstrations and marches are needed now more than ever to stop this unjust war. I marched in London against the war and I'll go on demonstrating for peace and justice.
Martin Timson, Liverpool, England

Since the governments in the so-called coalition have arrogantly decided to use force against innocent Iraqis to remove one man from power, peaceful protests are one of the few options available to us. We must continue to demonstrate against this unjust war and the slaughter of civilians.
Rana, USA

I was in several pre-war demonstrations and also in last week's march in Paris. There I got this scary feeling that Saddam was in the process of becoming a hero to some of the younger, less educated demonstrators. This is a paradoxical effect of the war, although it could have been anticipated as a working hypothesis by the clever strategists of the US and its allies. I may not demonstrate again in this context. I do not want anybody to misconstrue my protest against the starting of this war, which I think was a bad idea even more now, as a support for Saddam the tyrant.
Marc-Alain Grumelin, France

I find all these anti-war protesters extremely naive and ignorant. They should go and live in Iraq and understand the decision of Bush and Blair before they take their stance.
Smlee, Malaysia

Protestors should look deep into their souls and ask themselves whether they are on the right track

Chris, USA

After the atrocities we have witnessed, the protestors should look deep into their souls and ask themselves whether they are on the right track. I also question those Arabs and Muslims who are against the war. Is it compassion or religious or ethnic pride? If it is religious or ethnic pride, you are only condemning your brothers to another generation of suppression, possible torture, and certain deprivation.
Chris, USA

I think anti-war protests around the world have caught a lot people by surprise. If the war continues for a long period then these protestors will go one step further, they will cross over to Iraq and support the Iraqis.
Najwa, Malaysia

I agree protesting is useless - the authorities couldn't care less. So, when the first bomb dropped on Iraq, I decided I would never buy an American product again. No Coke or Pepsi, no Marlboro, nothing. Many people around me are adopting this policy. We can only stop terrorists of any kind by hitting them where it hurts most: their purse.
Giddyap, Belgium

Protests will not serve any purpose. Protestors now can demonstrate with placards like "Saddam surrender and save yourself and your people". I would join such protestors.
S.L. Fernandes, Toronto, Canada

I've never been one to protest, but I will this week. It's one way of showing my leaders and the world how I feel--of casting my vote between elections. By the way, I'll be attending a pro-war rally.
Shane, USA

People ask where protesters were, when Saddam gassed and murdered his own people. Well, some of us were members of Amnesty International, tediously investigating and documenting atrocities, while working for Médecins Sans Frontièrs. Your support will be appreciated!
G N, Sweden

People can protest until they are blue in the face, but the administration has made its decision and we all must live with it. The protests are wrong now because they take police away from their important jobs of searching shipping containers and locating terrorists. When the bomb goes off, the protesters will be toast just like the rest of us.
Philip, USA

The political price paid by Bush, Blair and Aznar must be so high that they cannot afford to attack Iran next

Andreas, Germany

Protests are important even if the war won't be stopped. The political price paid by Bush, Blair and Aznar must be so high that they cannot afford to attack Iran next. If people don't express their hostility to a highly questionable war governments will soon rely on force in any conflict.
Andreas, Germany

War should not be continued in Iraq. We want peace. Who is responsible for the blood of innocent children and women? We blame the powers who began this unjustifiable war and pray to god that they be defeated.
Amir and Haleh, Iran

It is more necessary than ever to protest. Our government and the world should know that this immoral and criminal war, directed by our appointed president, is not condoned by a vast sector of the US population in whose name it is being conducted. We cannot rely on our media to adequately and fairly represent the anti-war view in the US. And YES, we support our troops; bring them home and stop cutting veterans benefits.

It is ironic that accusations of ignorance, by the ignorant/indoctrinated or simply the dishonest, are levelled at antiwar protestors, for they are usually the best informed citizens, who understand best the issues, the hypocrisy and the fiction surrounding the so called 'justification' and 'need' for this war.
Bruno Nardi, USA

How does anti-war and pro-Saddam differ? You can't have one without the other. This is not protest like those over Vietnam where first France, and then USA was engaged in another country's civil war. This is a war against a threat not only to many within that country but also globally if kept unchecked.
RFC - Chicago, USA

If people truly do care for the Iraqi people keep on voicing your opinions since they are not allowed to. They are being suppressed by both sides.
Margaret, Chicago, IL,US

Protests are the only way to get my voice heard

Lena, USA /Russia

I wish I could actually do something to influence the decisions made by President Bush and PM Blair. But, obviously, no one cares what the people think! I wish I could talk to them and see their faces and see if they'll be able to brush off the questions with the same old overused phrases... and since I can't do that protests are the only way to get my voice heard.
Lena, USA /Russia

I am ashamed that my country is supporting the war in Iraq....who is next on the list that the Bush & Blair don't like. I just wonder how they can send the children of the USA and UK to kill the children of Iraq.
Arto, Cyprus

I will protest because I have no other way to express my disappointment in my government's diplomatic failure right now. At the very least, I will escape from our media's cheerleading for the war for an afternoon! At the most, it will remind the world that some of us have not forgotten our opposition.
Suzanne, USA

My wife and I have opposed this war of aggression since last year and we continue to oppose it. We have marched in Washington with hundreds of thousands of other Americans and will continue to march. We will always oppose this war and its leaders. They way to support our troops is to bring them home - now.
Stuart Silvers, USA

While I am totally against this war, and protested before the war began, my issue with protesting now is that each state has to absorb the costs of police presence at each protest. Most states are now facing budget deficits as it is. I'd prefer to see that money go into education, instead of over time for police.
MK Gately, US

Since peaceful protest is not working, it is time for starting arms struggle against the imperialist government

Jackie Woods, USA

Protesting on the street did not and will not work with the Bush administration. Their eyes are closed. Since peaceful protest is not working, it is time for starting arms struggle against the imperialist government. The soldiers need to revolt and fight back the US government. We need a revolt against this government.
Jackie Woods, USA

I think protesters should be heard; in the Middle East the protests against the US have gone unheard for too long! The only true threat to the world is from the most powerful military in the history of this planet, and most of the world not only knows this, but fears it too. They must be heard and acknowledged!
Francine Last, UK

All the anti-war protestors are ignorant. What they don't realise is that people have fought and died for THEIR freedom, including many of my relatives. Many innocent civilians died during both world wars but would you rather we just gave in to Hitler? If you felt so passionately about innocent people dying why haven't you been in Iraq for the past 12 years protesting against Saddam? Because Iraq doesn't have freedom of speech.
Chris, England

I disagree with the war and I support the marches, as long as they are peaceful. The UK should become a leading force in the Eurasian continent, and not a staging post for America in order used to thwart Europe's political cohesion
Vassilis Fouskas, Greece

Peaceful protests are a right we have, but just because we have the right doesn't mean we shouldn't think before we use it. Organized protesting before the war began made sense. Now that it has begun it is wasting the energy and money of the local governing authorities and of the protesters. It serves no point now, time and money could be better spent organizing events to prevent further happenings like this, such as rallying to revamp the UN process so we don't have to take it to this level in the future.
Nizana, US

If you live in my country, thank a protester for the very life and freedom you enjoy

Trebor, USA

Men with a new vision took to the streets of my country 225 years ago. T Jefferson, B Franklin and J Hancock protested the British governments' tyranny and rallied the people to an idea of freedom and self determination. Women took to the streets of my country and protested the being treated as if they had no voice, the denial of the right to vote. They rallied the people to an idea of equal rights. People of colour protested the practices of racism and discrimination and rallied people to the idea of civil rights. If you live in my country, thank a protester for the very life and freedom you enjoy.
Trebor, USA

I won't waste my time to demonstrate, it is useless. This massive thing should have been done long ago if it's necessary. The solution is Saddam Hussein should go - let's support the coalition to make the war short to save innocent lives that is all. I don't back demonstrations.
Samuel Gyabah, Ghana

Protest all you want. I won't accuse you of being ignorant if you'll honour me similarly. I won't insult you or your motives if you'll quit comparing me to the Nazi's or the fascists. I won't quote questionable historical to support my position if you'll reciprocate. We can disagree at this point, but the real fact is that the war is engaged, our troops are their, and like it or not, we are going to see this through to its conclusion.
Tom, US

I hope all the protesters will show their feelings once this conflict is over and donate to one of the relief charities that will spring up. In this way they can show true remorse for what has been done by our governments.
Angie, UK

I find it hard to understand how most of Europe can not clearly see that Saddam is the most murderous dictator of our time. In the next few months as the truth comes out and the people of Iraq are free to speak, Europe will owe the USA and President Bush an apology.
C. Roman, USA

it's good to see that people are still showing that they don't agree

Corinna, Germany

True, it's too late now, the war is on an I have had no doubt all along that the US would go to war not matter what. But it's good to see that people are still showing that they don't agree. And C. Roman, USA, what makes you so sure that what the 'liberated' Iraqi people will say in a few months will not be that they were brutally invaded and slaughtered by the Allied Forces? What if the weapons of mass destructions that were the alleged reason of Mr Bush and Co are not found after all? Who will owe an apology then and to whom?
Corinna, Germany

Many people commenting here seem to be under the impression that the protesters are ignorant about or even apologetic for the Iraqi regime. In fact, many of the prominent organisers were campaigning against arms sales to Iraq 20 years ago because those arms were being used against civilians. Our governments chose to ignore them. Now that these same governments and their clueless supporters choose to "liberate" the people of Iraq, the protesters are accused of not knowing what's going on in Iraq, or condoning it. You couldn't make this up, could you...
Alan, UK

I am a British soldier currently stationed in Kosovo. Most, if not all of the British lads I am stationed with wish we were in the Gulf at the moment. Even a lot of the French and German soldiers here give us their support. As far as we are concerned the peace protesters have the democratic right to practise what they wish to do. But I would have thought that they would have been behind our brave lads that are risking everything in the Gulf at the moment. I clearly see a lot of the protesters protest for nothing but fashions sake, yes, its fashionable to be a peace protester these days. Most of them wouldn't have a clue what it is like to be in an operational environment either fighting or doing peace enforcement/keeping. A lot of them don't realise that in today's environment war is sometimes a necessary evil. Peace through strength. God speed to those allies in the Gulf.
Iain McHenry, UK

Joining a protest is one way people voice their opinion, which in a real democracy the government should pay heed to. How many governments who "pledged support" to the war did so with the support of their own people? You won't find that information in the "List of Coalition" which Bush keeps raving about, not even in fine print. The answer can however be found in the streets.
Kapmax, Hong Kong

The Bush administration has fed us a different reason for the war every week

Lola, US

The anti-war demonstrators are not naïve; they are in large the people that do not accept what is fed to them in the media and choose to see the complete picture. This war is unreasonable; anyone that takes the time to analyse all the facts with undoubtedly come to realize this. The Bush administration has fed us a different reason for the war every week. If the US was concerned with the well being of the Iraqi people: why were they left behind to get slaughtered after the first Gulf War after they were told to rebel against Saddam by the US? Also the US government would have done something when Saddam used chemical weapons against the Kurds. As for Saddam posing a threat to the US - well that is just naïve!
Lola, US

It's very bizarre to me that so many people on this forum say "where were the protesters when Saddam killed his own people," or "Saddam killed protesters in his own country." No one I know in the anti-war movement thinks Saddam is a good guy. Everyone pretty much agrees he should be removed. But fighting this war at this time was not the right way to do it. I will continue to actively demonstrate against this insane war, in which we invaded another nation without international support, and with no act of aggression on Hussein's part. Please explain to me how Iraq was a threat, either to the US or to the UK. Inspections were "working."
Melissa Hartman, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Voice or no voice the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders."
Hermann Goering, at the Nuremberg Trials

Sabeeka, USA

Being an American, I am ashamed to see that so many of us are blindly following Bush. I want to point out something that was said in history, and it will show why I support the protests and why I will participate along with the million others who see the wrong in all of this.

"Naturally the common people don't want war; neither in Russia, nor in England, nor in America, nor in Germany. That is understood. But after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine policy, and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy, or a fascist dictatorship, or a parliament, or a communist dictatorship."
"Voice or no voice the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same in any country."

Hermann Goering, at the Nuremberg Trials
April 18, 1946
Sabeeka, USA

Protestors should focus their collective efforts on the future welfare of the Iraqi people. They should be pooling their resources together and sending food, medicine, clothes and other forms of aid to the people of Iraq. The war has started and will progress until there is a regime change. Protesting will not bring an end to this war. Therefore the protestors should stop wasting their time protesting the war and begin to find ways of aiding the Iraqi people now and after the war.
Andrew, USA

I think anti-war protest is legitimate. Hopefully the coalition will see the error of their ways and abandon their invasion of Iraq. After they retreat, news of any retribution by Saddam should be censored, we wouldn't want to start anti-Saddam protests after all. Peace at any cost, even if the price is our freedom, including the right to protest.
Tom, Australia

As a former US Marine I have to say that I agree with the right to protest. Even though I vehemently disagree with them I know that it is what we fight for and the blood of my fellow Marines were spilled to give them that right. Those that are blocking the roads (laying down in the road) and preventing emergency vehicles from getting to people in need should serve some serious prison time. The time to protest is not now, though, regardless of the fact that it only represents an extremely small number of ignorant Americans. The war is on, you will not change that at this time.
Robert, Dallas, Texas

I do not turn on my TV. I don't want or need to see live action of killing/preparing to kill. I read the news and avoid the photos as much as possible. I want this war to stop, and of course I think Saddam Hussein has committed horrible crimes against people, and naturally I am in support of the troops who are in the region, but I am very disappointed in the way this war was brought about.
Ellen, USA

In Britain 2 million people joined marches - this does seem like a lot of people until you consider that 56 million didn't bother to join in!

Julie, Edinburgh

How Alex from Australia can say that the huge majority believe it is wrong to go to war is ridiculous! In Britain 2 million people joined marches - this does seem like a lot of people until you consider that 56 million didn't bother to join in! Hardly a huge majority!
Julie, Edinburgh

One reason for the war - imagine what would happen if such protests would occur in Baghdad, it would cause a Tiananmen II. That's what the war is for. The oil problem...that's another story.
Cornell, France

I believe the protests have a purpose. We protest because we would like our voices heard and thus let the US government know that it cannot do whatever it deems 'right.' If the US can ignore public opinion and the UN, then it will go on to fight more wars as everyone believes it will.
Marvin, China

My country's government has opted to do the soft shoe shuffle on the Hussein problem, saying it is not in the country's interest to get involved in a fight which is not ours. Are we not all sharing the same planet? Should we have said the same thing about Kaiser or Hitler? Get real people. These madmen have to be stopped dead in their tracks. Yes, lives will be lost over the next few weeks or months, but if we continue to appease these men and their cronies, as we did the aforementioned dictatorial fascists, we will be in for a lot more than we are in for now.
Michael Jefferson, New Zealand

It's all about freedom of speech. If you believe in that, let people protest to express their opinions. If you don't then move to a totalitarian country where no one is free to speak their mind.
David Bart, Romania

I support the protests outright because this is a great opportunity to know how many of us are really able to identify oppression and act against it one way or the other.
Mohamed Shameem, Indian in Malaysia.

I am certain that the protests still have a purpose, as I firmly believe that governments must still be shown the huge statement against the war, that the huge majority believe.
Alex Catron, Australia

The protestors are clueless. They want the world to be some happy-go-lucky wonderland. The only problem is that the world isn't a peaceful place. I support their right to protest, but all they are doing is showing their ignorance.
Sean, USA

The anti-war demonstrations have failed to stop the war, but they are still important: First, they can keep public attention focused with a critical eye on what the US does in Iraq post-Saddam. Second, they can help prevent the next invasion. Third, they can work to ensure Bush is removed from office and replaced with a president who will try to undo the damage done to the world by Bush
David, U.S.A.

The world is begging for true leadership right now. Please encourage your representatives to show some leadership in stopping this opportunistic adventure in madness.
Neil Friedman, City Councillor, USA

There's no denying the fact that these anti-war protests are woefully out of touch with reality. It's one thing to stand up for peace. It's quite another to bow down to the proponents of terrorism.
James, USA

We should not apply our democratic standards to Iraq by using force. From their perspective we are simply brutal crusaders. We should bring back our troops and return to diplomacy again.
Bill Levente, Atlanta, USA

Why protesters aren't shouting their objections about how Saddam treats his own people

Josh, USA

I want to know why protesters aren't shouting their objections about how Saddam treats his own people. Where were their "die-ins" when he gassed the Kurds? Where was their outrage when Saddam was torturing and murdering his own people?
Josh, USA

To those criticizing the protestors. Did they have some 'ulterior' motives during the Vietnam war protests?
Muhammad, US

Oh please, this whole "America wants to dominate the world and ruin all the other cultures" is really getting old. US embrace other cultures. Look at the amount of money other countries make from American tourists, especially Europe. America does want to ensure its security and if some two bit dictator like Saddam poses a threat, America will deal with him.
Glenn, USA

As a Vietnam era veteran, I'm sick of using the war with Iraq as justification for denial of freedoms to citizens and visitors to the USA. We can't liberate ourselves! How can we possibly liberate Iraqis?
Peter Lawson, USA

Under the circumstances which caused 9-11 I think the protestors should be thinking about what they can do to help our country rather than taking our police protection away from terror alert to haul bodies off our streets so that people can commute to and from work. A citizen also has the right not to be harassed by these people.
Robert M. Dunnigan, USA

All those that beat the drums for blood never shed their own

John J., US

I will be protesting this weekend. I was in the United States of America's Army in Afghanistan. That "conflict" took an arm and a leg from me due to friendly fire. I can't image what unfriendly fire can do to you. War is hell. And all those that beat the drums for blood never shed their own. The rulers used to go to battle with the troops. I ask you where is Mr Bush and his cowboy hat? In a country club watching it all from his close-circuit presidential TV. You can bet I will be waving my only arm Mister Bush.
John J., US

Every protester on the streets is an encouragement to Saddam and distressing to coalition soldiers in the field. I am so incredulous at the naivety of people who believe that Saddam respects anything except the threat and application of main force. He has lived by it for over 20 years
William Jordan, France

I am both amused and befuddled by pro-war people who claim this war just in the name of freedom for OUR countries. If any intelligent person could tell me exactly what threat Iraq poses to either Britain's or the United States' freedom, I would really appreciate it. The Iraqi army's only means of travel to the US would be Delta Airlines!
Steve, US

I think the protests are ridiculous. It is selfish to sit back and watch dictators rule countries and kill their own without doing anything. People accuse Americans of being greedy? We have sacrificed more lives in the name of freedom then any country. Wake up people and realize that not everything in life is sweet and fluffy, sometimes bad things need to happen in order for a positive result.
Lora, USA

This is a very interesting discussion. I was in Vietnam during the last major Anti-War protests. And most of them were directed towards the military members. I listen to the protesters and sometimes I wander which world they live in.

But as a person that lives in a free country, I have fought to give them the freedom to protest. But why were they not in Iraq the past 12 years protesting what the government was doing to its people? Or can they only protest in an area where they know they are safe? Interesting thought!!
John Williams, USA

I have taken part in protests of San Francisco

Jennifer, USA

I support the protesters. I have taken part in protests of San Francisco. Even if our leaders choose to turn their heads and ignore the protesters, I still believe it is an important way to express that many people world wide oppose to the war.
Jennifer, USA

Protests are a valid form of objection to the war. Otherwise the world would think we all agree with Blair. Just because the war is in progress does not make it right or just.
Ian, Bristol, UK

We are at war, and no amount of protests will change that now. We need to get behind the troops and support them. Do you really think that most of them are happy to be out there? Don't you think it is hard enough for them, without hearing about anti-war protests every other day? If you want to make a stand over this - do so at the next election. I know I will be.
Lisa, UK

I think that this a good thing what Bush is doing with Iraq because if the coalition will not protect the world we live in who will? I think that every one who is not helping the military is scared of Saddam because we should only blame ourselves for the problems in Iraq because the military should have taken action a long time ago to be rid of Saddam.
Jan, USA

No amount of US and UK propaganda can make this war right. It is our duty to protest whilst we can. America clearly intends to dominate the world and crush all other cultures, even ours in Western Europe. If you don't actively oppose this war you are complicit in this criminal act in Iraq!
Andrew, Birmingham UK

Continuing protests serve as a constant reminder to the U.S. and U.K. governments that the majority of the world's population doesn't support this war. They should continue.
Arindam Dube, California, U.S.A.

What do these protesters possibly hope to accomplish?

Leon, USA

What do these protesters possibly hope to accomplish? They obviously do not understand what would happen to the Iraqi people if the US/UK troops withdrew right now. The war cannot be stopped now. A better use of the protesters time would be to demand that Saddam step down. However, it is odd that we don't hear them saying that. It makes me wonder who is really behind these protests and what their agenda really is?
Leon, USA

The protesters are run by professional organizers and well-known anti-American groups. They are entitled to their opinions but people should know what these people's ulterior motives are. The bulk of the protesters are being led, like sheep by organisers who have their own agendas.
Kimberly, USA

Do the protestors have any idea what Saddam did to those Iraqi people who protested his regime in 1991? He killed them.
Christopher Rouser, USA

I like many others like to believe in democracy. Protesting is one way we have to turn the concept of democracy into something practical. I think war in general is horrible and have a hard time distinguishing good wars and bad wars... they are all ugly, bloody and senseless to me.
I am glad not to see people on the streets cheering for Iraqi civil or military casualties but protesting against war in general. It's something people should have the right and dignity to do. I don't approve of fighting violence with violence (a violent pacifist is something awkward indeed). It takes two sides to make war and just as many to keep the peace.
Edoardo, Italy

I completely disagree with the anti-war marches they are a waste of time and police effort. The marches have no effect on government's decisions. I think the public should support Tony Blair in what he is trying to do. Elicia, England

I wonder if these people who wave peace banners and burn British and American flags in the streets remember that just fifty years ago these very same countries freed Italy (and other European countries) from the Nazi regime of Hitler? Where would Europe be today if these countries hadn't intervened? Are we supposed to sit back in the comfort of our diplomatic arm chairs and just ignore the atrocities that Saddam Hussein has inflicted upon his own people?
Andrea Beck, Brit in Italy

I am disgusted by these traitors. They should be supporting our brave troops who are fighting for their security. To stop people like Saddam in his tracks.
John, UK

Yes, as far it is still allowed, I'll protest and march against this illegal war and against the criminal governments that wanted it.
Sergiob, Italy

I believe these anti war protestors should open there eyes up to the world today

Steven Fogg, Scotland

I am all for the war on Iraq and I believe these anti war protestors should open there eyes up to the world today. If we don't get rid of the people like Saddam now the world could only get worse. Come on the Bush and Blair.
Steven Fogg, Scotland

Yes, protest is still extremely important! Now that the war has started, the anti-war movement in Britain and the US (and around the world) must work to ensure that civilians are treated properly, PoWs from all countries are treated with respect, and, most importantly, that the Iraqi people do not have a puppet regime imposed upon them by the US and Britain after this illegal war is over.
Andrew Kendle, UK

The protesters should thank their lucky stars that they live in a democracy and are allowed to protest. They should be protesting to get Saddam out!
Bryan, Germany

The continuing anti-war protests are a waste of time and judging by the reaction of the general public in Sydney after a demonstration got out of hand, further eroded sympathy to their cause. The hypocrisy of the anti-war movement revealed itself when Nato attacked the Serbs over Kosovo without UN sanction, the silence was deafening. Demonstrations will not change the course of this war, end of story.
John C, Sydney Australia

It is vital that this war is stopped immediately, and people all over the world must protest this war by going to the streets, by boycotting American and British goods and by emphasizing the hypocrisy of the US Administration. The American and British troops have no right what so ever to invade Iraq. Iraq never posed a threat to the UK or the US. Moreover, it is just incredible to see how supposedly enlightened nations resort to brutal attacks and extensive firepower against a much degraded nation that have been under continuous brutal embargo for 12 years. It is clear to many that Bush has an ideological agenda. The question is: why Blair, there is absolutely no reason for Blair to join in this terrible war against humanity.
Walid Awad, Jerusalem

Banner waving in the streets will change nothing

Andy Dudman, England

The move has been made and the forces are now committed. Banner waving in the streets will change nothing whether you agree or not. Protesters should find a more responsible use for their time if they feel so bad about it all. Billions of pounds are going to be needed for aid - how about fundraising rather than protesting.
Andy Dudman, England

One day in the future there will be no need for war or violence, but the only way we are going to get there is by removing dictators such as Saddam. The irony is, the only way to remove these people, is by force i.e. war. I just wish that these anti-war protestors would put their time and effort into supporting the men and women who are putting their lives on the line so that we can go to work everyday without fear of being killed in a terrorist attack. 9/11 was a chilling reminder that terrorism is still rife in the world and that we have to tackle them head on.
Craig Robertson, Scotland

I went on the February 15 demo in London but it's now ludicrous of protestors to press for a recall of UK troops at this juncture. A job half done is the worst outcome of all as it would leave Saddam in power to wreak all sorts of havoc. While the Feb 15 march had a clear purpose, current anti-war demos are pointless.
Alex B, UK

The recent anti-war demonstrations in London and Manchester have served a purpose. They have reminded Tony Blair and George Bush that we are not all for this war and that they will have to very careful how they proceed. This war will be very dangerous for Tony Blair. If he doesn't win there will be no way he will be re-elected for a third term.
Natalie, England

The stop the war protests are in my opinion not correct. Yes, the civilian casualties in Iraq are terrible. But Saddam's regime caused far more innocent casualties, don't forget that! The cause of liberating the Iraqi people is a just cause. The people of Iraq deserve a chance of a better life. And the rest of the world deserves to get rid of Saddam. Without this war that will not be possible. Protesters have to keep this in mind.
William, Netherlands

Yes the pressure must be kept up as opposition to an unjust war must be kept fresh in people's minds before politicians manipulate you into forgetting about the events leading up to the war. I was deeply shocked however to have come across some of my countrymen who are quietly harbouring thoughts that the US and UK should get a good thrashing in this war.

But I am convinced people are harbouring such wicked thoughts only because of the way this war was entered into with complete disregard for the wishes of the international community and for all the wrong arguments at a time when the inspection process had not yet broken down. Had the UN sanctioned this war more people would have ungrudgingly cheered our troops.
YK, UK

To be silent would be an injustice to the suffering innocents

Bill, Canada

To be silent would be an injustice to the suffering innocents. The military speaks of fighters in street clothes opposing them and claim they are militia hiding behind the civilians. Perhaps they are civilians who may also oppose Saddam but are unwilling to give up their rights to their own natural resources to foreigners. Since 9/11 the US has lost their freedom of truthful information from Government and the press. It's no wonder the polls are in favour of Bush, they get only his version of the story.
Bill, Canada

So called democratic world please listen to the voices of protestors around the world. Where now is the mother of democracy?
Mazharul Haq, Pakistan

I am saddened that war and all its terrible results still holds fascination and even excitement for western minds which professes to be at the forefront of human development. Regardless of all technological progress, humanity remains largely bankrupt in the department of peace, justice, compassion and understanding. The coalition and its supporters will find and use clever wording to defend the reason for war but no one can hide from truth while claiming that they have the right to take lives. This is not the way to replace a Saddam with a Happydam.
Michael Thomson, Israel

The protest will not stop the unilateral attacks but it will go down in history that there were many people that were against this horror. Military might alone will not be the memory of these days. Not to continue to protest will signify acceptance and support to violence and the leaders that spread this violence.
David Cochran, Puerto Rico

There's definitely still a point to publicly opposing the war, not only because of the suffering it will cause but because silence is already being opportunistically taken to mean consent. Those who continue to protest understand that the problem goes far beyond Iraq and is about the spread of US imperialism. Our troops are being exploited and put in harm's way in order to do the dirty work of the Bush administration. The best way to support them is to bring them home.
Caitlin McKiernan, England

It will always be easy to be "anti" anything in a democracy. There is no need to formulate a solution, simply to say you don't like what's on offer. Then the protester sits smugly back and tells everyone how moral and superior they are. Genuine political activity requires much more courage and commitment. Few of the people with banners, sheltering in the anonymity of a crowd, have the bottle for this. This is why I will never march, or have respect for those who do. If these people really cared, they would join a party and try to change things.
Tom, UK

Criticism of this war does NOT equal a lack of support of those fighting in the field

Julia Sathler, USA

U.S. Taxpayers have a right to indicate how they want their tax money spent. If the president and their Congress, or even their media will not listen to them and air their concerns, then it is their DUTY to protest. I am proud of the people who care enough to have input into how their government is run. And NO, a criticism of our foreign policy and participation in this war does NOT equal a lack of support of those fighting in the field. On the contrary. We want them home, safe and sound!
Julia Sathler, USA

As far as I am concerned people have had their say. It's not fair on our men and women fighting out in the Gulf to be hearing of divisions back home. They have a job to do. Furthermore, how many will say I supported it all along when Saddam is finally removed from power.
Chris, London, UK

My family will be marching in labour union contingent to the anti-war rally in Boston Saturday. Our military budget is spinning out of control while healthcare, schools, and direct services are being deeply cut. We see our sisters and brothers in the military being used in this war of aggression, put in harms way, while hundreds of innocent civilians are being killed or injured. We must march, we must talk, we must debate, we must stop this madness!
Tim Dean, USA

Don't focus on the fact that the majority of Americans and British agree with this war, you would forget that the large majority of world population are against and are protesting against this unjustified war. Do you believe that it is clever to support the troops if you think that what they do is wrong, I don't think so. Soldiers I'm sure would prefer to come home than going there. So it is to protesters to bring them home.
Luc, France

Many protesters are at best well meaning wishful thinkers

Tom Watson, Wales, UK

Many protesters are at best well meaning wishful thinkers, they seem to believe that despots actually care a jot about their views and will modify their behaviour because lots of people think that they should. At worst elements amongst them appear to behave like thugs themselves
Tom Watson, Wales, UK

Yes, I have participated in the protests. The major media here are all corporate owned, so that we have to go outside our own country to get the real news. According to the Pentagon, everything is just hunky dory. These are the same people that fed us the message that Iraq was going to be a walk in the park with all the Iraqis just so happy to see us they would welcome us with open arms, which is clearly not happening.
Clarice, U.S.A.

I think it is disgusting that our forces are out there fighting and people over here are protesting against this war. These people are doing a job and we all should be thankful they do it, because they keep us safe. No one wants war! But this guy needs to be stopped and that's all there is to it
Dawn, England

I am horrified at the media coverage of this war and the lies we are being told. Do the politicians think we are stupid? Tony Blair needs to wake up and see what is happening. Send him into the hospitals of Baghdad to see how he is liberating the people of Iraq.
Aisha Khan, Belgium

If people cannot voice their opinion through their government they will always take to the streets to redress that balance. What the government lamented as apathy towards the future of their country was in fact apathy towards the government which shows no consideration for the nation they are supposed to communicate with.
Melanie, London, UK

The anti war protest is not about saving Saddam. It is about Iraqi people, the political aftermath in Middle East, American Hegemony and systematic looting of the regions natural resource by US government. US already forgot about the pledge it made to Afghans when it talked about rebuilding their country.
AC, UK

Protesters repeat the same old arguments which can be countered with equally strong pro-war arguments

Ross, UK

The thing that most frustrates me about the protesters is that every one I've spoken to has not been able to offer a decent alternative. Some didn't have a clue what they were protesting about. Others just repeated the same old arguments which can be countered with equally strong pro-war arguments: Innocent Iraqis being killed (many more are under Saddam's regime); It's an American Oil War (so why didn't Bush Snr conquer Iraq ten years ago? Blair has said the money from oil is going only to Iraq). School children demonstrating? No offence, but if it means a day off from school....
Ross, UK

I've been protesting for a month and yet the news in my country tells us we are unpatriotic. I'm very scared of what is happening to the US. I have a brother in US army fighting in Iraq. I support him but not this war. I see a so called patriotic fever gripping the people here that have chilled me to the bone.
Jesse Williams, U.S.A.

A gung-ho pro-war attitude is what costs our soldiers their morale and lives NOT the reverse. The reason the troops exist is to protect the country against outside threats. One can not in all honesty send one's troops half way around the world to a country that has been bombed over the years back to the stone age in order to protect itself
AG, France

I will not join a public protest. I will save my protest for any future local or general elections and vote for anyone who was against this senseless war.
Ian, UK

It would be much better if the protesters will just stay at home & pray to God that the war would be over soon than parade in the public to furthermore enhance the spirit of hatred.
Nick, HKg

If you want to just sit at home and drink your tea, that's fine I am going to go out and say what I think about this war

Luis, Santiago, Spain

When France was doing nuclear tests in the 1990's, I thought protesting was futile. But this is something different: people are actually dying in Iraq. Bombs and bullets are really killing people. It is real, and it is horrendous. If you want to just sit at home and drink your tea, that's fine. I am going to go out and say way what I think about this war.
Luis, Santiago, Spain

I would like the protestors to please consider this: at this point of the crisis does the protest harm or benefit the weak and the unfortunate involved in the Iraq conflict?
M Pawan, Thailand

In 1946, at Nuremberg, we British told the vanquished Germans that the very essence of international justice is that individuals have international duties which transcend national obligations of obedience imposed by the state. The boot is on the other foot now. Our armed forces have been cynically manipulated by a reckless government, unable to extricate itself from a situation of its own making.
Digby Lowe, Scotland

I went to the anti-war demo in London on Saturday, and in a way it made me feel better seeing so many people(of different ages, religions, ethnicities) united in their struggle for peace and justice in the world.
Jane, London, UK

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