Kurdish fighters have taken the main northern Iraqi stronghold of Mosul after the Iraqi army abandoned the city.
Widespread looting has broken out across the city and a central market was set on fire.
This is a second page of your comments.
The following comments reflect the balance of views we have received:
Unfortunately the fighting will go on. The UN is in tatters, Muslims around the world have been humiliated by the 'crusade' as Bush once said, and thousands of dead Iraqis' friends and relatives will be prime candidates for revenge attacks. All the while the Palestinians are dying in droves under the cover of the 'liberation'. This war has been the epitome of hypocrisy and propaganda mistruth - it is about oil and the imposition of Western values/ culture on developing countries. When Saddam was on our side we encouraged him to tyrannise his neighbours, but when he dared to resist the 'status quo', all hell broke loose.
Greg,
London
If this war was truly about Iraq having weapons of mass destruction, I am amazed nothing was done to prevent the widespread looting of government offices and presidential palaces over the past few days. There is one thing we can now be sure of - if any weapons had been concealed in such a place, they are no longer there now. We can only imagine the consequences had one of the looters found some barrel or other vessel of chemical agent and not known what its contents were. Our leaders cannot use insufficient forces on the ground as any form of excuse for not intervening. It was they who had chosen to conduct this war with limited ground troops.
Stuart Redhead,
London
I think that when the fighting ends, the war won't be over for a long time, because then a political war about how to reign the Iraq and who should do it will start. And this war could be much more cruel than the war we have today!
Marco Huber, Munich, Germany
Islamic terrorists are likely to become more active in the aftermath of this war
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The bombing might stop soon but the fighting will not end. Islamic terrorists are likely to become more active in the aftermath of this war and it will be soft targets like India and other South Asian countries which will bear the brunt of this.
Manoj, New Delhi, India
The widespread looting is being allowed to take place so that the next stage of the conflict can be implemented i.e. that of 'urgently requiring' a police force of some sort, and isn't it just so lucky that the US troops are already in place to take over that role!
Sobia Khan, Oxford, UK
Bush has no interest in stopping the fighting. Any military progress only insures more future war. America will be demanding a military regime change somewhere else within a year.
Bob, London
One part of the war has finished but there are other problems that will pass through this country. Let's hope the USA and Britain do not give a bottle of democracy to the Iraqi people in one go, otherwise there will soon be more trouble. And the north part of the country with the Kurds - how is going to be solved? I see dark days still to come, unfortunately to the Iraqis in those areas.
Joe, Marsa. Malta
My mom is a very religious person and about three months ago she told me that one of the prayers in their church was Saddam Hussein's regime. And most of all, she and her church in particular believe that since Saddam Hussein's was summoned several times for peace and did not accept that, God decided to collapse his regime. But as God does not come down himself with a piece of stick to kick him, he uses leaders of other countries (like US and British) to lead for the regime in Baghdad to collapse. Thus, the current war will ends only when Saddam and his followers turn to peace and when God blesses them for that.
Eliza Yohannes, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
To those people who think the war will be over when your troops return home: get ready for "the war" to last for the unforeseeable future, just like in Bosnia, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. As for a "democratic Iraq," I have my doubts. Whose democracy; that of the Iraqi people or that palatable to Bush and his cronies? The international community "liberated" Kuwait, but is Kuwait a democracy?
Colin, Oslo, Norway
The war is all but over, but now comes the hardest part; to win peace
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The war is all but over, but now comes the hardest part; to win peace. We need to bring peace, security, food and water to Iraqi people and help them to set up an Iraqi ruled Iraq. While this is happening our troops should withdraw as soon as allowable. Then I would like to see Arabs and some Europeans keep on screaming that we are there to control (steal) the Iraqi oil. We have said for a long time that Iraqis natural resources belong to Iraqi people not to Saddam and his cohorts; hopefully the world will see this for what it is and not try to twist this as well. During the rebuilding there needs to be one party in charge - and that is the coalition. If we let the UN in now every state will want in to get their piece of the pie and it will NOT help the Iraqi people. The coalition has almost accomplished what it set out to do: Liberate the Iraqi people and remove a tyrant.
Mike,
Joplin, USA
The fighting will not end because the Arabs look at the American as occupiers - not liberators. They do not feel safe in the hands of Americans. The fighting will go on as long as the Americans continue to stay in Iraq. It would have been better if the force which removed Saddam was composed of the Iraqis themselves. There will be more tension everywhere. The Iraqis are going to wedge a war similar to that one we saw or we are seeing in South Africa and Israel
Mark, Uganda
According to President Bush, this war is a "war on terror." Tearing down a statue of Hussein in no way suggests that terror and anti-American sentiment will cease. This war will not be won until the American government and the American people are able to develop an understanding and be able to compromise with anti-American, right wing terrorist groups. Unfortunately, the war is not over, it has only just begun.
Caleb Hatcher,
Zionsville, USA
This war is far from an end; many questions remain unanswered. Where are the WMD, biological weapons, Saddam and his fanatical fighters? Intelligences are clueless about it. Now they've disappeared, but will appear again to spread more terrors one day. Example; the assassination of Mr Al-Khoei, after the fall of Saddam's statue, and also the suicide bomber which killed US troops. Those who believe it's going to be a quick war, think again! Look at Israel, Palestine, Afghanistan. This is not the first conflict the Americans have handled; they just leave things in a mess.
Pagiasmara, Notting Hill, London
Why is it so hard for countries (especially Arab countries) to accept that the US may actually have good intentions sometimes? Didn't we just liberate thousands of ethnic Albanians in the Balkans a couple years ago? How much oil did we get out of that deal?
Bill, Paris, France
Though happy with the unsolicited liberation, I believe many Iraqis will resent the UK and US dominating them
Paulina Rice, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
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The question is why is there still resistance with Saddam out of the way? What is the motive behind the resistance? Though happy with the unsolicited liberation, I believe many Iraqis will resent the UK and US dominating them - a reality which has not yet hit home with most of them - but it will once they see it. Forget about US military governor! Please; these people are too knowledgeable of politics and will not have patience with that, it is likely to keep up the resistance.
Paulina Rice, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
At least you guys in other parts of the world won't have to listen to the pro-war people gloat and wave their flags in your faces. They think that their war is justified now. The US may have won the war, but we have lost the respect of so many in the world. My husband and I cry everyday when we hear about more and more civilian deaths. Whenever I see the picture of the dead Iraqi child with her head split open (thanks to our weapons of mass destruction), I wonder to myself, "Is this what being liberated looks like? God help us all.
Sunny, Reno, NV, USA
The war is over. To have a war, you need two sets of armed forces, Saddam is no longer a president but a criminal on the run. This was definitely not a war against Islam and, with the atheistic dictator removed, no doubt a regime more to Osama bin Laden's liking will emerge. Let's not let things get so far next time. If a fundamentalist dictatorship grows up, lets put it down straight away without shamefully waiting 30 years to do it.
Alcuin, UK
The fighting may go on for years. The overall muted response of many Iraqis to being liberated, hints at the tensions under the surface. Far from freeing Iraqis, this violent change, with a fleeting feel good factor for the US and UK, may merely condemn Iraqis to many more years of strife and conflict as various groups struggle for power, especially after the US forces leave. History will most likely judge this as one of a war of vanity not necessity.
Barry B, UK
There is still a long road to cover towards peace
Gabriel van Grevelinghe, France
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No; it remains to be won. Many Iraqis have suffered more in the last days than they were before. The transition period towards peace is just beginning; we must succeed. Let's hope the peacenicks will help, and stop hoping all this is bound to fail! There is still a long road to cover towards peace.
Gabriel van Grevelinghe,
Maisons Laffitte, France
Now the naysayers will have to find something new to complain about. Mr Blair, thank you for your support and courage. Sir Winston would be proud. The true hallmark of a great leader is the willingness to make the unpopular decision and do what is right.
Chris Q, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
This isn't over until Tikrit and Mosul fall, but that shouldn't take long. As for the future, I believe handing control to the UN will be the biggest mistake that the coalition could make. Just look at Bosnia, Kosovo and Afghanistan to see what a mess the UN can and will make. Leave it to the coalition, they took the risk, lost the lives and will sort it out!
Ted, Birmingham, UK
Condemnation of the US and Britain for not supplying humanitarian relief and controlling the looting are unwarranted. The situation changed in a matter of two days. What do these complainers think can be done in hours? The bullets have not even stopped flying so how is aid to be delivered immediately? Shoring up social services and replacing anarchy cannot be accomplished overnight. We hear calls for the UN to take over relief efforts. When could that be expected to occur? Certainly not in days or even weeks. Get real!
Bill Cobb, Nashua, NH USA
The scenes of Iraqis rejoicing on the streets of Baghdad have vindicated Bush
Chinedu Ibeabuchi,
Lagos, Nigeria
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The scenes of ordinary Iraqis rejoicing on the street of Baghdad since yesterday have justified the attack on Iraq and vindicated Bush. Those who were against the war should go and eat their words. The coalition forces only wanted to remove a repressive regime from power. Although lives and properties were lost, the end surely justified the means. Freedom anywhere does not come cheap or easy.
Chinedu Ibeabuchi,
Lagos, Nigeria
Chinedu from Nigeria: I trust you will feel the same if the Americans invade Nigeria to solve your country's problems too. I wonder if you would still say "the ends justify the means" if you were cradling your six-year-old dead daughter in your arms?
Sarah Peters,
Southampton, UK
The war is not over. Half of Baghdad is not under control. Northern cities are still under regime control. I believe Saddam is still alive and hiding underneath one of these cities. The US knows where he's at and that's why the MOAB was brought in. I think he has to make his last stand yet and commit a major atrocity. It almost seems like it's been too easy.
Julie, Milford, OH, USA
Despite US reassurances to the contrary, Saddam Hussein must be captured. Many Iraqis fear speaking about past transgressions against themselves and the general populace because of potential reprisals from Hussein and his Baath followers. If Iraq is to move forward, the entire command structure must be tried for war crimes. A regime without state is still a regime -- just ask Osama bin Laden.
Ken ReCorr, Brooklyn, New York, USA
The military victory was not the hard part
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The war has just begun. The military victory was not the hard part. The hearts and minds of the Arab world are far from embracing the US and Britain. The real conclusions will best be drawn in a year or two. I must say that unless Blair can win out (over the Bush approach), its going to be a long and painful road.
Richard Boland, Louisville, KY USA
The most telling thing about yesterdays "statue toppling" incident in Baghdad was how many of the 4 million residents of the city were NOT there to witness this "historic moment". Even the TV pictures show many people in the background barely paying attention, or even walking away as the statue came down. Only a couple of hundred people had gathered to watch and celebrate. Now compare this with the fall of the Berlin Wall - is there any comparison? - of course not. So it should be no surprise that the war continued today.
Malcolm, Broadstairs, UK.
The scenes in Iraq are wonderful to see. The people are liberated and actually stand a chance of living a free and self determined. All things we take for granted here in the West. Thanks to George Bush and Tony Blair for making this possible!
Beyond the immediate the UK and the US need to hold a strong presence in Iraq until stability and democracy can be introduced. Then maybe this love of freedom will spill over into Iraq's neighbours... and that will have a big change on the world. Maybe then we will actually have sustainable peace.
Sam, Manchester, UK
The US and UK rightfully stood up for those who could not stand for themselves
Dane Rodriguez, Cincinnati, USA
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Saddam has finally fallen and Iraq's people finally have a future to look forward to, as it will be of their own choosing. It is a shame so many in the world falsely paint this day as a 'blow to the Arab world' and a 'war against Islam'. Such negligent behaviour is almost as criminal as having supported Saddam Hussein and his tyrannical regime. It is about time the US and UK are given the credit they deserve; they rightfully stood up for those who could not stand for themselves.
Dane Rodriguez, Cincinnati, OH USA
This is when the real war begins. We now have to ensure the safety of the Iraqi people and their property.
Nicholas Kimpton, Chicago USA
The war will be over when the vast majority of American & British troops have been able to withdraw, and the Iraqi people are able to sustain a peace. They must be able to run their country without any foreign intervention; They need to be able to function as a people without fear of old grudges rotting them from within, or fear of reaction from the US or other nations. I hope this happens in a matter of weeks, but expect it to take months.
Gary Christiansen, Columbus, Ohio, USA
The war will be fought here on our own streets
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One small victory for the people of Iraq. After two decades of murder, torture, and oppression they are now free to show their true feelings in their own capital city. Is the war over? Not by a long shot. War itself will never be over as long as difference in opinion produces violence. It is the rest of the world's right to hate my country, but as long as there is hate, we will never live in harmony. Having the power to speak one's mind is the greatest right a person could ever wish to have. The war will be fought here on our own streets.
Evan McClure, Cheshire, CT, USA
The toppling of the statue was symbolic. The Iraqis tried to do it themselves, but could not, and required US help to get the job done. And, in the end, the "bigger than life" statue turned out to be hollow. The "war" is over, but the fighting will continue, because most of the people in that part of the world hate each other. They can only agree on hating the US more, because their leaders and their media have brainwashed them into believing that their problems are always somebody else's fault, and the US is the easiest target.
Ron Litton, Lilburn, Georgia, USA
There will be no peace in Iraq until the Kurdish question is settled once and for all, possibly with a sovereign Kurdish state which requires the cooperation of Turkey and Syria, something one can only dream of.
Lars Porne, Vällingby, Sweden
The most dangerous part of the war is yet to start
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I believe the war is far from over yet. It must be accepted that the welcome the Americans and British has been expecting in the form of spontaneous uprisings has not happened at the start of the war. The so-called allied forces should understand that even though Saddam was not liked by many of his people, the British and Americans are never trusted no matter what they may do or say. Therefore they should expect to face more opposition. Personally I believe the most dangerous part of the war is yet to start because the issue is not Saddam but the dignity of a people.
Musa Jallow, Busumbala, The Gambia
I do not see the fighting far from over until the coalition forces have consolidated their grip over the entire country as there remains vast tracks of western and central Iraq unoccupied, which include Saddam Hussein's home city of Tikrit. Wouldn't it be true to say that the war is only truly won once the coalition has made itself felt in every corner of the country?
Andre Beck, London, United Kingdom
This war was over when the coalition made the decision to liberate the Iraqi people. If you were shocked or surprised at the rapid collapse of Baghdad, I suggest that you should re-evaluate the value of the anti-coalition propaganda that you heed. The coalition is a expedition of liberation, not an imperialist invasion.
Jim McDade,
Birmingham, Alabama USA
To the best of my knowledge, Saddam Hussein has not been confirmed dead
Joshua Cacopardo, New Haven, USA
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Did I miss something? To the best of my knowledge, Saddam Hussein has not been confirmed dead. It would not be the first time a major battle was won only to find the enemy returning with more forces and winning the war. Even if the war is over, the world will not forget the oppression of America or the aid of the UK. We've dug ourselves into a hole that will take years for us to climb out of. Freedom does not necessarily make us free.
Joshua Cacopardo, New Haven, USA
The end of Saddam Hussein's regime signals the conclusion of the US-Anglo aggression on Iraq. And whatever the immediate outcome of the war, I strongly believe that anti-American sentiments among the Muslims in various parts of the world will increase because they perceive the US-led war on Iraq as not merely anti-Saddam but an act of hostility of the US-British alliance against Islam. US president George W Bush has just established the basis of a serious conflict in the Arab region - a virulent hostility between the US and the Islamic world that may be pronounced in the foreseeable future.
Sarreal D. Soquiño, Negros Occidental, Philippines
The war will never end. I can never travel anywhere in the world in safety since regardless of whether I am in a game park in Africa, walking by the Eiffel tower or having a burger in Australia, my family and I could be targeted and harmed because we are Americans. No American will be safe anywhere in the world ever again.
Shana Morris,
Ohio, USA
Dancing Iraqis make a powerful image, especially for people seeking legitimacy for the war
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Dancing Iraqis make a powerful image, especially for people seeking legitimacy for the war. But where are the alleged weapons of mass destruction which originally prompted the war cry? Liberation of the Iraqi people has always been low on the list of priorities, or it wouldn't have taken 24 years. Liberation of the oil is another story.
May, Zurich, Switzerland
Many people seem to be failing to recognise that the arguments against this war were about more than whether the US could topple Saddam Hussein and whether the Iraqi people would be happy for this to happen the way that it has. The fact that this preliminary stage of this war has been won does not change the fact that it was done illegally and for contradictory and hypocritical reasons. Might is right again from now on apparently, and I for one still find that extremely frightening, especially when that might is in the hands of a man such as Bush.
Katherine, London, UK
It has never been disputed, by either those who advocated this war or those who opposed it, that the military conquest would be relatively quick and easy. How could a rag tag army of Iraqi soldiers, weakened by years of sanctions, ever overcome the military sophistication and strength of the coalition forces? The real test and deepest disputes will come with establishing a stable, democratic Iraq. The biggest challenges are yet to come.
Etlwu, USA
It is indeed over for the people who died. We should all feel sad and sorry for them and their families, in either side of the battle lines. I am afraid, however, that it is not yet over for the people who called this war and provoked it through their words and actions.
Eduardo, BA, Argentina
People of Iraq celebrating is great. The fall of an evil dictator is great. The photos of babies in coffins are awful. The cries of mothers are awful. Were the cries and cheering in the streets that of celebration or relief that the bombing will stop? And how many enemies did we create from motherless children? I don't know if the war is over. I am not an expert. There is so much work to be done.
Jane,
USA
I just wanted to say congratulations to the Iraqi people. I am so very happy for you. Also, to all those anti-American people; sorry you hate my country, but sometimes war has to happen in order to achieve peace. That is how America came to be, through war. Those people in the US have the right to speak out against the war, but only because some people in uniform had to die for that right to come to be. The war will continue until Saddam's regime is removed. We cannot back out now. We cannot turn our back on the Iraqi people like we did in the first Gulf War.
Robyn,
USA
the US and British soldiers should now have to police Iraq for months until order is restored
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Amidst all the euphoria over a Saddam statue toppling over, you have: widespread looting and crime, Muslim clerics being assassinated and marines shooting an elderly driver - while US and British soldiers stand around saying it's not their job to keep law and order. Is this what the coalition calls being "in control"? Obviously it's easier to drop bombs on people and blast your way to "victory". The hard work starts now - the US and British soldiers should now have to police Iraq for months until order is restored. Don't pass the buck onto poor UN peacekeepers who the coalition maligned before the war.
SL, Bahamas
Dictators should be dealt with severely to introduce democracy in all countries, but if it is done after a blood shed then it is bad. Iraqis will never forget innocent relatives they are losing during this war; these will fuel the acts of terrorism when ever they look back at this war. It will never come to an end.
Lato Pufs,
Harare, Zimbabwe
I'm so torn. On the one hand, the Iraqis' joy at the fall of Saddam is undeniable. On the other, a huge humanitarian crisis has been created by this war. Hundreds of thousands are begging for water in Basra. Where is the promised humanitarian aid? Where are the supposed huge stockpiles of WMD which were the reason given for this war? For how long will military occupation last? I have so many questions, but my anger at the current US administration has faded a little.
Shawn, Washington, DC, USA
The war is far from over. With this military action, the US government has opened the door for terrorists. And the growing humanitarian crisis has only begun.
Erin,
Washington DC
it will be many years before this conflict is finally resolved and the Iraqi people will live in peace
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Anyone who thinks this conflict is over is deluding themselves; in fact it has only just begun. It is now clear that the real reason for this war was the vast oil reserves in Iraq and if the USA thinks that the Iraqi people will let them just invade their country and take control of this, they will be in for a surprise. On top of this there are the many different factions that will naturally want to have some sort of say in the running of the country. I think it will be many years before this conflict is finally resolved and the Iraqi people will live in peace. And still no sign of the weapons of mass destruction!
Mark Day,
Portsmouth, UK
I think to be a little bit cautious it might be two weeks from now. But this is really to mop up operations; largely otherwise conventional warfare should be over now. Now the tricky thing is what sort of post-Iraq structure is set up, and what has happened to remnants of the fallen Iraqi dictator. All should be done to avoid a situation where these dark forces might sort of regroup later to fight the young regime that might be put in place.
And here again it's important for the US and Britain to put in place a strong democracy and military government so that Iraqis can counter such forces from the past. It is therefore vital for the international community to fully cooperate with the coalition now that it's clear that the case put forward by the coalition is credible.
Kelly Wanda, Kampala, Uganda
Those who were jubilant were indeed Iraqis, but did they represent the entire Iraq? It is natural that many in Iraq must have hated Saddam especially those against whom the dictator had been more brutal. But think of those who were not as desperate to see Saddam out especially at the expense of an American led invasion.
Those miserable beings would dare not come to the streets chanting slogans against the invasion amidst thousands of hostile American troops. And who would dare cover their sentiment in the media in the wake of the recent bombing of journalists in Iraq.
Ali Bokhary,
Lahore, Pakistan
The citizens who have survived Saddam's regime, the indiscriminate attacks of the US and UK forces in both wars, the destruction of their power, water and sanitation, now have to contend with a conqueror who allows widespread looting, lawlessness and destruction of civil and private property. Is this really liberation?
Bernard, UK
True democracy has almost always been bought with blood
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True democracy has almost always been bought with blood. Let's just hope that this prize, so dearly won, isn't squandered by the various factions in post-Saddam Iraq and that the Iraqis are helped, not hindered, by the powers that have helped them to achieve it. Iraq is grateful to Bush and Blair, but this doesn't give the US and UK the right to mould Iraq's future for their own ends. If we are truly their friends, then we must judge the correct time to back off and leave them be.
Henry Hyde, Brighton, UK
I am pleased to see the rejoicing on the streets of Baghdad. Nevertheless, it is not over yet. There are many in Iraq who supported the old regime, not all have disappeared. Let us hope that old scores and feuds to settle do not entail in bloodletting amongst the populace. On a personal note, there are many other countries in the world with even more brutal regimes, unfortunately for their people; they have no oil, so not worth really bothering about from Blair's and Bush's point of view. This is why I was against the war, and I see no reason to celebrate.
John Bassi,
London UK
The Iraqis experienced freedom for the first time in over 25 years. The pictures yesterday confirmed to me, and I'm sure most of the world, that this war was just, and the outcome was the success we had hoped. Although the fighting may not be completely over, the re-building of a country can now begin. The liberated people of Iraq can now live. And the anti-war protesters can now be silenced. They will one day realise the sad truth that this world is not, and will never be, filled with peace, love and harmony. And people like Saddam Hussein can not be reasoned with through dialect; it is very naive to think it possible.
Paddy, Leeds, UK
There are several months to go until the final pockets of resistance are eliminated and some form of order and control is established
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There are several months to go until the final pockets of resistance are eliminated and some form of order and control is established across the country. America needs to trust Britain and work 'closely' with and through the UN so that Iraq can recover and prosper. Failure to do this will incite the Arab world and lead to further unrest and terrorism.
David Bain, Aberdeen, UK
The war was the easy bit, it's the peace that I think will drive the Coalition to distraction as they try to figure out how to weld a country together while at the same time trying to keep the factions apart. I suspect the Americans with their short attention span will lose interest very quickly and will leave it like they left Afghanistan; in as big a mess as they found it.
Hayden Boaler, Bundaberg, Australia
This war is far from over; America's reason for this war is not just to free the Iraqi people. I think there is more to it than that, the US want the oil, and the attempts to overthrow Saddam Hussein's regime is the perfect opportunity to do so. The deals made with US oil companies are a clear sign that America has other plans for Iraq. They will no doubt play a large part in who will be chosen as a new leader.
Maria,
Kent, UK
The war in Iraq is far from over because the main aim of the war in the beginning has not been fulfilled (weapons of mass destruction). And if we give praise to the US and UK, will the world be a safer place for people who can't defend themselves? Let's take a look back at dictators like Pinochet for Chile they arte still walking free; but why Saddam? What about Zimbabwe, Pakistan, Rwanda, and so many more; these countries still have brutal leaders so why cant the US and UK deal with them as well. The world should be looking at better issues, not fighting war, and people are dying for democracy by the gun.
Tamba Sylvester, London, UK
Whilst a stable and lasting peace in the region is a long way off; what great scenes of jubilation in Baghdad yesterday at Saddam's downfall
Matthew Ritchie, Halesworth, Suffolk
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Whilst a stable and lasting peace in the region is a long way off; what great scenes of jubilation in Baghdad yesterday at Saddam's downfall. Just a pity that a couple of idiotic Americans had to spoil it by attempting to raise the stars and strips in Baghdad Square. After all the talk of a war of liberation this act typified why America is held in such contempt in certain quarters, and I can only hope the soldiers concerned will have this impressed upon them.
Matthew Ritchie, Halesworth, Suffolk
The joy on people's faces in Baghdad says it all - free of a despotic dictator at last. Well done Tony Blair for sticking with the Iraqi people, despite the protests at home from demonstrators who have now been proved wrong. The task now must be to find a just solution to the Palestine-Israel question, to show the Arab world the West is even-handed.
Steve, London, UK
Now that the coalition has achieved its objectives of toppling Saddam Hussein, an immediate withdrawal should follow to make room for the UN to play its mandated role. The US and UK also have a major challenge ahead to restore some credibility in the eyes of the democratic world.
Angelo,
Halifax, Canada
Fighting a guerrilla war at this time needs total plan with great care to avoid regrouping of the stray loyal soldiers of the past Saddam Regime. He who fights and run away lives to fight another day. For the safety of the Iraqi populace it worth to maintain and secure absolute peace after the war.
Osman Kamara, Oldham, UK
This particular armed conflict may be close to an end but other future conflicts will be fuelled as a result
David, Aberystwyth, Wales
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This particular armed conflict may be close to an end but other future conflicts will be fuelled as a result. All that's really happened is that one bully-boy has beaten another and in the process many people, including children, are dead - who otherwise would still be alive. Having watched the progress and outcome of this conflict my only emotion is one of total emptiness.
David, Aberystwyth, Wales
The war is not over in my eyes it's just beginning, it doesn't matter if US soldiers drive out resistance in Baghdad they will still have to deal with securing the cities, setting up a ruling government and most important making the people of Iraq gain trust in the US and British policy on foreign affairs
Aestivalis, Toronto, Canada
There is still more to be done, but Iraqi people now feel the freedom we have been trying to get for them. Despite the joyous scenes in Baghdad yesterday, it seems there is still a hearts and minds battle to be won - that of the anti-war lobby, who amazingly seem to begrudge the Iraqis their happiness. Perhaps our government should do more to raise the poor level of education in Britain?
Craig, London, UK
If we can maintain humility (stop raising our flag on their soil), and if we can bring order and hope, and show the rest of the Arab world we do not want to steal their oil or their lifestyle, then maybe the fighting will stop. The Palestinian issue must become paramount.
Sam, Fairbanks Ak, USA
This regime took 24 years to build and has been toppled in less than 21 days. The total collapse of militia from this point onward will be swift. Expect political in-fighting to be sustained as in every other democratic free country in the world. Thanks to the Americans and British for helping ordinary Iraqi's achieve this, and shame on the rest of the Middle East and Europe for condoning a brutal dictator by there inaction.
Matt, UK
The military conflict in Iraq is in its final stages, but when will people realise that war is an integral part of the way the world develops? More conflicts are destined in the future, the only question is how many and how severe. Peace is a beautiful thing, but peace for too long causes its own conflicts. By taking action now, and possibly with other rogue states in the near future, we may be able to avoid the doomsday war that will come after a period of excessive peace. Give peace a chance but occasionally pull your head from the sand.
Peter, Newcastle UK
The aim of the US was to give freedom to the Iraqi people from the brutal power of Saddam
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It¿s not a big deal if the US doesn¿t find Saddam and his two sons. The aim of the US was to give freedom to the Iraqi people from the brutal power of Saddam and his regime. I saw people cheering on the streets of Baghdad after coalition force defeated the republican force. Isn¿t it enough to say that the war is over after looking at these happy people?
Suraj,
CA, USA
Soon the truth will out. Will George Bush be a man of his word and allow the Iraqi people to choose their own leadership? Or will the anti-war demonstrators be proved right? Have the deals with US companies already been made for the rebuilding of Iraq? Will a puppet 'democratic' leader sing to the tune of congress? Chalabi, conveniently placed in Southern Iraq just when it is safe enough to arrive as a liberating 'freedom fighter', fits the bill perfectly - is he the future US puppet?
Mark, Dubai, UAE
The falling statue of Saddam beamed on TV signifies the end of tyranny. The major war has ended the minor war begins. Removing pockets of resistance and rebuilding Iraq i are minor wars.
Meanwhile the message should be clear to all dictators worldwide, the that dictatorship does not pay.
Ojukwu Gregory,
Lagos, Nigeria
This necessitates a large role for the United Nations in rebuilding Iraq
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I have been a critic of Bush since the war rhetoric started. The war debate is over. Bush has the opportunity to knit the world structure back together, and MUST take advantage of it. This necessitates a large role for the United Nations in rebuilding Iraq. Hopefully, Bush can reassure the international community and the American people that this was a war of liberation, and not conquest.
Bryan,
Seattle, USA
This is not the beginning of the end, it is the end of the beginning. Military defeat of the Iraqi regime was always going to be easy, but the real difficulties are yet to come. Imagine the consequences of a prolonged occupation of Iraq by the so-called coalition. Imagine also the disgust across the Arab world today as people watched the Stars and Stripes being attached to the statue in Baghdad.
Chris Calvert, Warwick, UK
The worst is over. Now we'll see if we can put the pieces back together.
Peter Vevang, Minneapolis, USA
The removal of the statue was a symbolic and historic moment
Elliot Reader, Billericay, England
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Having being sceptical of the war at the beginning, but gradually reversing my opinion as the war continued, I am delighted on what happened today concerning Baghdad. The removal of the statue was a symbolic and historic moment for the people of all nations all over the world. I am delighted for the people of Iraq that Saddam's reign of terror is over.
Elliot Reader, Billericay, England
The war in Baghdad may be coming to the end. But world peace and order now no longer exit.
Minh Duong, Calgary, Canada
Now the real opportunities for the coalition to shine present themselves. If they can hold the country together until a viable civil administration takes over, then this will be a triumph. Whether or not they discover weapons of mass destruction is irrelevant. Those who would condemn this action on the basis of them ultimately not being found need to honestly review whether the people of Iraq would have been better off with Saddam Hussein still in command.
Andrew Cover, UK
Time alone will tell if this was the right thing to do or not
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This is a war with no end! Time alone will tell if this was the right thing to do or not. The celebrations in Iraq will subside in a few days and then reality will kick in. How we handle this from now is more important than anything we have done so far.
Graig, UK
Yeah, there is a lot of hard work still to be done before true victory is won in Iraq, that is certainly true. However, it is very heartening to take a short pause and watch the genuine joy of those Iraqis who are finally free from the despotism and terror of Saddam Hussain. These people were LIBERATED by coalition troops. Saddam's murderous rule is finally over because of the political will of Bush and Blair. At least now the Iraqi people have the chance for a better tomorrow.
Mike, Burke, Virginia, USA
A significant battle has been won, but the political war
is far from over. The US and UK will be and feel isolated from the rest of the world for many years to come.
John,
Sydney
Having been a supporter of the war from the outset, I am thrilled to see the Iraqi jubilation in central Baghdad today. The war is over now that the Iraqis believe the regime has fallen. Now, let's see a grant scheme set up enabling western (and of course any other) families, to sponsor the education of an Iraqi family in a new, free, Iraq.
John, Clifton, Bristol, UK
Before people become too jingoistic remember the sight of a 12 year old boy whose family has been killed, both arms blown off and his body covered by 60% burns. He is 12 years old, this war was, is and always will be immoral. After 7000 years of civilisation there must be another way. Give peace a chance.
Simon Huish, London, UK
It is clear that Saddam Hussein's reign is over, and it is wonderful to see the Iraqi people celebrating their freedom
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Even though Baghdad has now fallen to the United States, the war is not over. There are cities to the north that still need to be secured before the war can be declared over. It is clear however that Saddam Hussein's reign is over, and it is wonderful to see the Iraqi people celebrating their freedom.
Ian, Austin, USA
As predicted by PM Blair and President Bush, this war of liberation and disarmament is now being met with absolute rejoicing by the Iraqi people. When the Iraqi's install their own government, I wonder how many contracts will be awarded to France, Germany and Russia - all enablers of Saddam and his torture regime? The war will be over in weeks, not months, and the British and American troops have performed, and will continue to perform, magnificently.
Thomas, Akron, US
Well, pro war people gloat in a victory that was harder than expected. Expect guerrilla warfare now for many months, if not years. Would a pro war person please justify to the little Iranian boy with no arms and a family vaporized how good it feels to have "won"? No WMD found or used, a bad precedent has just been started. Pre-emptive war; our darkest days lie ahead, witness Palestine circa 1946-47 and the British there. I am still ashamed to be an American.
Mike, USA
Sure, the war is almost over and the coalition won as expected. The people are free now and that's all we see. This war is still not justified; if this has been done 12 years back couldn't the people be better off and a lot of lives saved in these years? Another point is the war was one-sided. Iraqi didn't have anything to fight back. If they had weapons of mass destruction why didn't Saddam use them? It's so easy to fight with anyone when one knows he is going to win.
Sunil,
Bristol, UK
Perhaps the war is over for the moment but the battles will remain in terms of survival. We witnessed the same when Bangladesh was liberated in 1971; later the so called father of nation was killed. As for Iraq I believe a military coup is very much imminent right after the first government who knows the Bath party will come to power once again. America can never been successful in their military and political goals at the same time because their blue prints are motivated!
Abey, Dhaka, Bangladesh
no matter how many friendly overtures are made by the US to the Muslim world, it won't prevent violent Anti-American sentiment
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The United States has constantly been alienated to the Muslim world, and I see this intervention making this alienation worse. No matter how much humanitarian aid the United States provides, and no matter how many friendly overtures are made by the US to the Muslim world, it won't prevent violent Anti-American sentiment. As such, congratulations to the coalition! Another victory, albeit small, against the sources of anti-American terrorism.
Dave,
Fredericksburg, VA
How can the war be declared over until it is known what happened to the regime? Further, where are the paramilitary troops, the republican guards etc? I've been watching US broadcasts of the Shiites celebrating, American broadcasters patting their government on the back. We will know if there is still a fight left in the next few days, not now.
KarimRizk, Canada
It appears that this phase of the war is over and I am proud of the way that the coalition has fought. The civilian casualties are tragic but the joy expressed by the Iraqi people seem to be the overwhelming cry. It is now the responsibility of the coalition to prevent a catastrophe by getting that much needed humanitarian aid in to Iraq, return a safe water supply, maintain food supplies and police the area. The war has changed into a political war now. God bless.
Andrew, UK
The test of whether the US is a great country is not in winning the war in Iraq, whether or not you agree with the motives, but in how well they help rebuild the country. The Muslim world will take a great deal of convincing, but for all our sakes, let's hope that the hate and distrust can be dispelled.
Frank Patterson, Voorschoten
The war is not over because it was never a war - it was an invasion of Iraq. The Iraqi people will not taste freedom until the US and UK withdraw - something I have a sneaking feeling they won't do.
Andrew Hunt, Manchester, UK
The fall of Baghdad is very much an expectant military victory. The real object of this war is peace! In Iraq, eventually in the Middle East, which is an absurd task! Only if American presence is in Iraq for a good time afterward, the outcome is clear.
Mukaram Al-Obaidy,
Iraq
now the more difficult battle will begin, battle for hearts and minds of Iraqis
Mkondrac, Washington DC, USA
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War will be over only after Iraqi minister of information confirms it. It would also be nice if we could establish for sure what has happened to Saddam Hussein. Is he in Tikrit, or perhaps already in Damascus or even Minsk? Perhaps Saudis have taken him like they have Idi Amin? On a serious note, now the more difficult battle will begin, battle for hearts and minds of Iraqis. This battle has to be won decisively if Iraqi people are to enjoy freedom and (hopefully) democracy.
Mkondrac, Washington DC, USA
Yes. Now we can sit back and wait for the reaction in the form of more anti-American attacks around the world. This is the conclusion of the first major war crime of the 21st Century.
Norman L Bott, USA
Baghdad has not fallen! The US can kill as many correspondents as it likes and it still will not bury the truth. The main battle will be in Tikrit. Even after the US has left Iraq will be bogged down by tribal differences. If anyone thinks that Iraq will be any different to the farce that is Afghanistan, then they are mistaken.
Vish, UK
Is this war over? No, not by a long way. The three main ethnic groups that go to make up the people of Iraq have a lot of "making up" to do and there will be conflict between the groups. It could take at least a generation to win the peace.
Adrian, UK
The war in Afghanistan was about finding Osama Bin Laden. The US bombed the country inside out - Osama Bin Laden was nowhere to be found; the war in Afghanistan wasn't "won".
The US had said that this war is about the tyrant dictator; has he been found? I don't think the war is over, unless the war was to install a friendly government in Iraq. Will the US now attack another country in a years time to hide its shame of not finding Saddam either?
Imran, Toronto, Canada
There needs to be a sense of stability before any real declaration of completion is made
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This will probably be enough to topple the regime, but I fear a longer campaign is about to commence. There needs to be a sense of stability before any real declaration of completion is made. This means law and order in the streets etc, as well as an influx of desperately needed humanitarian aid and supplies. And even then, the WMD we heard so much about will need to surface.
Sarah, USA
I have heard that there are quite a number of suicide bombers in Iraq, approximately 7000 of them; where are they? Or have they changed their evil behaviour? The war is almost over. Congratulations the US, British and friends, all I need is a friendly world.
Dax, Gaborone, Botswana
Yes, I do believe the war is over, but fighting may still occur for a couple of days. Listen to the people of Iraq, they are celebrating that FREEDOM is finally theirs. That alone proves that it was all worth it. How could people from other countries protest the war when they haven't a clue as to what it is like to live in such fear?
Kevin,
San Diego, USA
The liberation is not quite over, but the coalition is well on its way. It will take months to ensure Iraq has a safe and solid cornerstone on which to build a new leadership. Developing and cultivating the new government will be a task. Hopefully, if the UN is involved, it won't take them 12 years to take action.
Brian T,
Germany
The will be over if Saddam is brought to justice. If he disappears like Bin Laden then the war will be an ongoing war like the war on Terror. It remains to be seen.
Ralph, Houston, USA
It's just the start of the next chapter: team-power with the Iraqis
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It's just the start of the next chapter: team-power with the Iraqis to clean out what is left and more importantly, start educating the people that there is life after the dictatorship.
Lisa, USA
Would all those so vehemently against this war now like to comment on the scenes of jubilant Iraqi citizens greeting the allies?
Matt, UK
How ridiculous must the 'stop the war' lot feel, now the people are on the streets applauding the troops. Now that we are seeing the torture chambers and the murderous conditions the people have been living under.
John Brookes, England
Could you please ask, given the tribal nature of the people of Iraq, would it not be easier to split the country into three autonomous countries. This would reflect the tribe structure and would make a repeat of a Saddam much less likely.
John Butcher, Bournemouth, UK
A fantastic moment for the Iraqi people
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A fantastic moment for the Iraqi people. Yes the war is over bar the shouting. It is incredible to see the Iraqi people in the middle of Baghdad one hour after liberation smashing a giant statue of Saddam. It is reminiscent of the Berlin wall as it came down. Finally the long shadow of evil is no longer. Good luck and God bless the Iraqi people.
Richard, Sweden
The killing may be over, but now the poverty, starvation and internal feuding will start. This is where Bush & Blair better shine otherwise there will be outcry. By the way: Wot, no weapons of mass destruction?!
Toby, UK
Is the war over? I really don't know. Shouldn't this question be put to an expert such as the Iraqi minister of information?
Martin Lansdowne, UK
The fall of Baghdad is but one step towards its conclusion. Unfortunately the war has longer to run - at least another ten days or so. Thereafter work can commence on establishing humanitarian assistance before handing back the country to the people of Iraq.
John, UK
Finally the people of Iraq are free of Saddam
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Finally the people of Iraq are free of Saddam. They will now have to assist the coalition forces bring order and root out the few who are still prepared to fight. The war is effectively over. Well done the US and UK - you have brought joy to many Iraqi people.
James Craven, UK
Baghdad is not the end. There's more to Iraq than just the capital. We'll have to wait at least until Tikrit falls as well until we can say it's over.
Ian, UK
The joy of the people of Baghdad on television now justifies the war. Not over yet, but full marks to our prime minister.
Ken Elmes, UK
The war in Iraq is really only just about to begin. Sure, the Iraqi people didn't want Saddam but they equally as sure don't want the Americans in their country. The war will end only after the US and UK troops go home.
Stuart, UK
Not yet. I won't be convinced until I see a stable and just government in Iraq. Until then, there will be continuing misery for the Iraqi people. The US must replace a just war with a just peace to convince detractors.
Rajeev, Germany
A different type of war has just begun
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No, a different type of war has just begun which Bush, Blair and Company will be unable to stop. They have created another Palestine and alienated themselves from the large Muslim world.
Abdul Mannan,
Bangladesh
I think we are nearly there, but it all seems too easy at the moment. What has happened to all the resistance? Are they in hiding and awaiting one large charge? It won't be over until Saddam is caught dead or alive. Only truly then can Iraq begin to gain stability and begin its new life.
Adam, UK
The fighting is pretty much over, there can be little doubt of that, but let's hope that the coalition does not forget its promise to rebuild Iraq. If Afghanistan is anything to go by, one can only assume that rebuilding Iraq will continue until a more lucrative project can be found.
Alexandra, Lebanon
What does "over" mean?
Is the war in Afghanistan "over"?
Is the Palestine-Israel conflict over?
Military victory is just that: military victory.
Shamick Gaworski,
Lexington, KY, US
Where are all the Iraqi troops?
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I hear that American troops are in Baghdad and British troops have secured Basra, but what I don't hear are where are all the Iraqi troops, Fedayeen, militia, etc? I don't hear that they have all surrendered or been killed. They are still out there and someone is leading them. Let's wait until the armed forces of Iraq have been taken care of before we declare victory.
Don Payton, USA
The war will not be over until the status of Saddam is either confirmed dead or captured.
Will, UK
The battle for Baghdad and Iraq definitely appears to be over. Whether the war - with the goal of ultimately improving the lives of Iraqis (if that was the goal) is over will be judged over the next few years. If a dictatorship is replaced by a US puppet - it will indeed be a failed war from the Iraqi's point.
Martin, D, Westford, MA, USA
A significant battle has been won, but the war is far from over. Those still loyal to Saddam will sink into the shadows and try any underhand tactic they can. Expect prolonged guerrilla warfare and other unpleasantries.
Gareth Rippingale, England
Who knows whether it's over? Let's hope so, and let's hope that a better Iraq emerges. It's good that Saddam is on the way out.
But is this the end of a war or only of the first campaign of World War III? It depends on how the US behaves towards other Muslim nations, and especially Israel. I'm not optimistic.
Chris Bamber, UK
~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~54~RS~)
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