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Should the sanctions be lifted against Iraq?
As reports of human suffering in Iraq continue after nearly a decade of sanctions imposed by the United Nations, Labour MP George Galloway has organised the first humanitarian flight to Baghdad since the Gulf War.
UN humanitarian aid co-ordinator, Hans Von Sponeck and the official in charge of the World Food Programme's relief operation in Iraq, Jutta Burghardt have both resigned recently in protest against the sanctions and the devastating impact they are having on Iraqi civilians.
But the UN won't lift the sanctions unless Iraq fully co-operates with a new arms control group. So far Iraq has condemned, but not formally rejected, the resolution.
Is it time the international community lifted the sanctions on Iraq, or should they stay in place as long as Saddam Hussein's regime fails to comply? Tell us what you think.
UN humanitarian aid co-ordinator, Hans Von Sponeck and the official in charge of the World Food Programme's relief operation in Iraq, Jutta Burghardt have both resigned recently in protest against the sanctions and the devastating impact they are having on Iraqi civilians.
But the UN won't lift the sanctions unless Iraq fully co-operates with a new arms control group. So far Iraq has condemned, but not formally rejected, the resolution.
Is it time the international community lifted the sanctions on Iraq, or should they stay in place as long as Saddam Hussein's regime fails to comply? Tell us what you think.
The so-called sanctions that some of you defend include vaccines, basketballs, knives, cows, and pens. Car tyres are forbidden - its amazing what kind of things you find on the list of stuff that are not allowed into Iraq.  |
Baker, Iraqi / Sweden
|
Its amazing how little people in the west know about my country. For your information Iraqis have fought Saddam for over 20 years now, The Shias have had some 4 major revolts in the last 10 years and before that, they fought him in guerrilla warfare. The USA helped Saddam actively stop Shias from winning and they disarmed Shia fighters after the 1991 war. Saddam is a criminal hated by the majority of my people. We are being killed by our filthy leader on the one hand and we are being killed by the west on the other, making it harder to get rid of him. That man was put there by the west and now we are being blamed. The embargo is one of the hardest ever put on a people. Iraq is the cradle of civilisation, and now we can't even feed ourselves. Saddam is destroying the marshlands in the south to get to the Shia fighters who are still fighting him and refusing to receive any money from the USA. Is it not enough that over 1.2 million have died cause of the sanctions? Why not remove all sanctions except on arms ? What can a basketball or a knife do that hurts your planes? I know the pen is mightier than the sword but the pens forbidden to import to Iraq wont harm your planes.
Baker, Iraqi / Sweden
Yes, it will give Saddam Hussein less camouflage: he'll be seen as a bad guy without being able to blame misgovernment on lack of resource. AND it will help Iraqi keep clear of the wave of Taleban-clone paranoiacs who would turn the clock back and make the people of Iraq suffer more - especially the women.
Lionel Shapiro, UK/England
Iraqi's all know who is their real enemy and that is US which has devasted their economy and genocides their future brains of the country. Saddam Hussein has nothing to do with what is happening in Iraq today but indeed history has shown that this man has invested his country economic sectors which was why Iraq was booming before this evil sanction came into place. His people were in high standard of living and now suddenly the west is using him as blame shield. This is stupid and they have to realise they are responsible for the country's devastation.
Samira Shilia
Simply let those who have caused the genocide of Iraq be punished and these men include former president Bush and current Clinton butcher. Saddam Hussein is the hero of millions of Iraqi's because he is the man who fights and stands up for their rights and humanity. I know some people will say he is "a dictator who murders people", but I will tell you what he is born to rule. before the sanctions Iraq was at the top and who did that don't tell me Bill or Bush? Its time sanctions are totally removed paid compensation to those families affected.
Jamal Rage, Austria;
During the 1980's Iraq was a friend of the west. A war and ten years of sanctions have not altered Iraq's internal situation. The weapons inspectors have been kicked out on more than one occasion probably never to return. If Kuwait's chief export had not been vast amounts of oil would the west have been so keen to go to war? Lift the sanctions they hurt no-one, except the innocent.
Mark McCulloch, UK
When Madeline Albright was asked if the goals of the sanctions were worth the lives of hundreds of thousands of Iraqi children. She said "it's worth it." Well I say it isn't. Killing innocent people through the denial of certain necessities is not a price I'm willing to pay to feel a little bit safer! When I go to bed at night I don't feel better knowing that the ghost of a chance that an Iraqi biological warhead could kill me and my family has been averted at the price of the pain, suffering, and deaths of others. On the contrary, how can we feel good when we go to sleep at night, when we know the scale of the suffering that our country is inflicting on the Iraqi people? So, I say to Miss Albright, "NO, it isn't worth the price." Then the ends, which are still not clearly outlined, definitely do not justify the means. As Scott Ritter testified, Iraq has practically been disarmed! So what are these ends the Iraqis are being killed for?
Nadim, USA
I was a soldier in the Gulf War and at the time was proud to help liberate Kuwait. I talked to many Iraqi soldiers and most were just scared and glad it was all over - they had no choice but to be there. Now, seeing the effects of the sanctions on these same ordinary Iraqis and their families, I am ashamed to have been part of that campaign. Sanctions are only hurting the powerless - how many years does the West intend to make Iraq suffer for?
Carlos, UK
People are saying that for as long as Saddam is in power then there will still be suffering in Iraq, and that there will not be any difference if the sanctions are lifted. But what people don't understand is that before the sanctions people had no problems surviving, no problems with food, no problem with diseases, and the funny bit is that Saddam was also in power then. So why weren't people dying then? The only reason people are dying is because of the sanctions not because of Saddam. We were living a wonderful life before the sanctions were introduced.
Dini, Kenya
I hope the surviving children of Iraq will grow up and hold the West responsible for the murder of their brothers and sisters.
Tony, USA
I can guess where my next meal comes from and my family can't.
I can express my point of view, whereas my family daren't.
I can get medical treatment whereas I have lost members of my family to a lack of medicines for diabetes and asthma.
This is because I was born in the UK and brought up here, and my family is in Iraq.
A.Ameer, UK
I really wonder at the West. They want to put an end to so called "terrorism" and yet also turn to terrorism to fight it off. Not only are the ridiculous sanctions killing lives they are not doing any harm to the man wanted. How could one even justify this atrocity...It is a deep resentment, a disappointment.
Ali, US
The threat of Saddam Hussein is only discussed in terms of potentiality: "He might attack Israel," though he never has in a way as serious as Israel has attacked Iraq. "He might use weapons of mass destruction again," even though we were all complacent when he did in the past against the US's enemies. However, the suffering of the Iraqi people is real, is tangible, and is unarguably preventable. Here is a clear case of unjustified, abstract hypotheticals determining a policy with very grave consequences. This must be thought about carefully and realistically. We must depart from our supervillain notions of Saddam Hussein, and enter the world of realpolitik.
Will Youmans, USA
I don't believe the sanctions were designed to eliminate the weapons of mass destruction, or to get rid of a dictator like Saddam Hussain. It was designed to send back Iraq to the Stone Age and maintain the status of balance of power or the superiority of Israel in the Middle East.
A Smith, UK
It is clear that the sanctions have done nothing to weaken the 'iron fist' rule of the Ba'ath party in Iraq. The country is a far cry from what it used to be. It is time for the sanctions to be lifted and for the ruling party to be ousted once and for all. The People of Iraq have suffered long enough, let them at least have their dignity.
Mohammad, Canada
Baker, Iraqi / Sweden
Yes, it will give Saddam Hussein less camouflage: he'll be seen as a bad guy without being able to blame misgovernment on lack of resource. AND it will help Iraqi keep clear of the wave of Taleban-clone paranoiacs who would turn the clock back and make the people of Iraq suffer more - especially the women.
Lionel Shapiro, UK/England
Iraqi's all know who is their real enemy and that is US which has devasted their economy and genocides their future brains of the country. Saddam Hussein has nothing to do with what is happening in Iraq today but indeed history has shown that this man has invested his country economic sectors which was why Iraq was booming before this evil sanction came into place. His people were in high standard of living and now suddenly the west is using him as blame shield. This is stupid and they have to realise they are responsible for the country's devastation.
Samira Shilia
Simply let those who have caused the genocide of Iraq be punished and these men include former president Bush and current Clinton butcher. Saddam Hussein is the hero of millions of Iraqi's because he is the man who fights and stands up for their rights and humanity. I know some people will say he is "a dictator who murders people", but I will tell you what he is born to rule. before the sanctions Iraq was at the top and who did that don't tell me Bill or Bush? Its time sanctions are totally removed paid compensation to those families affected.
Jamal Rage, Austria;
During the 1980's Iraq was a friend of the west. A war and ten years of sanctions have not altered Iraq's internal situation. The weapons inspectors have been kicked out on more than one occasion probably never to return. If Kuwait's chief export had not been vast amounts of oil would the west have been so keen to go to war? Lift the sanctions they hurt no-one, except the innocent.
Mark McCulloch, UK
When Madeline Albright was asked if the goals of the sanctions were worth the lives of hundreds of thousands of Iraqi children. She said "it's worth it." Well I say it isn't. Killing innocent people through the denial of certain necessities is not a price I'm willing to pay to feel a little bit safer! When I go to bed at night I don't feel better knowing that the ghost of a chance that an Iraqi biological warhead could kill me and my family has been averted at the price of the pain, suffering, and deaths of others. On the contrary, how can we feel good when we go to sleep at night, when we know the scale of the suffering that our country is inflicting on the Iraqi people? So, I say to Miss Albright, "NO, it isn't worth the price." Then the ends, which are still not clearly outlined, definitely do not justify the means. As Scott Ritter testified, Iraq has practically been disarmed! So what are these ends the Iraqis are being killed for?
Nadim, USA
I was a soldier in the Gulf War and at the time was proud to help liberate Kuwait. I talked to many Iraqi soldiers and most were just scared and glad it was all over - they had no choice but to be there. Now, seeing the effects of the sanctions on these same ordinary Iraqis and their families, I am ashamed to have been part of that campaign. Sanctions are only hurting the powerless - how many years does the West intend to make Iraq suffer for?
Carlos, UK
People are saying that for as long as Saddam is in power then there will still be suffering in Iraq, and that there will not be any difference if the sanctions are lifted. But what people don't understand is that before the sanctions people had no problems surviving, no problems with food, no problem with diseases, and the funny bit is that Saddam was also in power then. So why weren't people dying then? The only reason people are dying is because of the sanctions not because of Saddam. We were living a wonderful life before the sanctions were introduced.
Dini, Kenya
I hope the surviving children of Iraq will grow up and hold the West responsible for the murder of their brothers and sisters.
Tony, USA
I can guess where my next meal comes from and my family can't.
I can express my point of view, whereas my family daren't.
I can get medical treatment whereas I have lost members of my family to a lack of medicines for diabetes and asthma.
This is because I was born in the UK and brought up here, and my family is in Iraq.
A.Ameer, UK
I really wonder at the West. They want to put an end to so called "terrorism" and yet also turn to terrorism to fight it off. Not only are the ridiculous sanctions killing lives they are not doing any harm to the man wanted. How could one even justify this atrocity...It is a deep resentment, a disappointment.
Ali, US
The threat of Saddam Hussein is only discussed in terms of potentiality: "He might attack Israel," though he never has in a way as serious as Israel has attacked Iraq. "He might use weapons of mass destruction again," even though we were all complacent when he did in the past against the US's enemies. However, the suffering of the Iraqi people is real, is tangible, and is unarguably preventable. Here is a clear case of unjustified, abstract hypotheticals determining a policy with very grave consequences. This must be thought about carefully and realistically. We must depart from our supervillain notions of Saddam Hussein, and enter the world of realpolitik.
Will Youmans, USA
I don't believe the sanctions were designed to eliminate the weapons of mass destruction, or to get rid of a dictator like Saddam Hussain. It was designed to send back Iraq to the Stone Age and maintain the status of balance of power or the superiority of Israel in the Middle East.
A Smith, UK
It is clear that the sanctions have done nothing to weaken the 'iron fist' rule of the Ba'ath party in Iraq. The country is a far cry from what it used to be. It is time for the sanctions to be lifted and for the ruling party to be ousted once and for all. The People of Iraq have suffered long enough, let them at least have their dignity.
Mohammad, Canada
The reason Saddam is in power in the first place is
due the backing he had from the CIA when he took over Iraq. |
N. Khan, UK
|
Those who say that sanctions should only be
lifted until the people of Iraq rise up and get rid of Saddam Hussein
should note that the reason Saddam is in power in the first place is
due the backing he had from the CIA when he took over Iraq. The reason Saddam is still in power
today is that when after the Gulf War the people did rise up (including some of the army)
the West discreetly helped Saddam in putting down the rising, that's according to the recent documentary on ITV.
Basically the West were not sure if the alternative to Saddam would be pro-western. In such circumstances what
are the ordinary people of Iraq to do?
N. Khan, UK
The sanctions are a cruel, unusual, uncivilized, and ineffective punishment against the people of Iraq. They have killed 2,000,000 already and MUST be stopped!
Zimmerman, USA
N. Khan, UK
The sanctions are a cruel, unusual, uncivilized, and ineffective punishment against the people of Iraq. They have killed 2,000,000 already and MUST be stopped!
Zimmerman, USA
Until Ghadaffi, Hussein & Milosevic go - their countries will remain the pariah states of the world. |
Rodolph Render, Austria
|
Iraq started the fight with the rest of the world. They couldn't even beat Iran - let alone 100 countries allied together. They lost - and are tasting the ashes of defeat. Until Ghadaffi, Hussein & Milosevic go - their countries will remain the pariah states of the world.
Rodolph Render, Austria
Many contributors talk of Saddam as a ruthless tyrant, a murderer, an evil dictator, and of a corrupt and psychopathic regime. But let's face it, all we really know of the man is what we read in the US controlled media. If the reason for sanctions is that Iraq is manufacturing chemical and biological weapons, then perhaps the US is trying to kill off the competition.
Len, Australia
It seems to me that the sanctions are more an act of genocide (yes genocide) than anything else. Try as the west may to justify itself, the lack of food and medicine are killing about 5000 children a month. This number comes from a statement by UNICEF on October 19, 1996. This isn't an exaggerated statement. That, and all the depleted uranium we dumped on Iraq can't be good for the cancer rates. The sanctions aren't hurting Saddam Hussein one bit. They just draw the nation closer to him because they have nothing left.
Matt Roegge, USA
It is really sad that even now this question has to be asked as a 'talking point' discussion. It is a mockery of the talk of world peace and prosperity and eradication of poverty and starvation and disease that can be heard in forums all across North America.
Ali Ahmed, Canada
Rodolph Render, Austria
Many contributors talk of Saddam as a ruthless tyrant, a murderer, an evil dictator, and of a corrupt and psychopathic regime. But let's face it, all we really know of the man is what we read in the US controlled media. If the reason for sanctions is that Iraq is manufacturing chemical and biological weapons, then perhaps the US is trying to kill off the competition.
Len, Australia
It seems to me that the sanctions are more an act of genocide (yes genocide) than anything else. Try as the west may to justify itself, the lack of food and medicine are killing about 5000 children a month. This number comes from a statement by UNICEF on October 19, 1996. This isn't an exaggerated statement. That, and all the depleted uranium we dumped on Iraq can't be good for the cancer rates. The sanctions aren't hurting Saddam Hussein one bit. They just draw the nation closer to him because they have nothing left.
Matt Roegge, USA
It is really sad that even now this question has to be asked as a 'talking point' discussion. It is a mockery of the talk of world peace and prosperity and eradication of poverty and starvation and disease that can be heard in forums all across North America.
Ali Ahmed, Canada
It is naive to think that if we lifted the sanctions human suffering would stop |
Richard Powell
|
It is naive to think that if we lifted the sanctions human suffering would stop.
If you send in charity to Iraq, it will end up in the hands of the elite, not with the people who deserve it.
If you want to resolve the situation, you have to remove the current administration. As long as Saddam (or any of his peers) is in control, there will be human suffering in Iraq.
Richard Powell
I believe that the sanctions are killing innocent children, and causing tremendous suffering to the poor people of Iraq. Saddam Hussein is not affected a bit by these sanctions. Indeed, that may be the issue that makes Iraqis support him more. If the world regards the people of Iraq as humans, they should call for the lifting of these unfair sanctions and let these people have a dignified life. They may not be able to get red of Hussein, but they still deserve to live and rebuild a future.
A. M. A., USA
Nobody supports Saddam Hussein, certainly not the majority of the Iraqi people. Children are dying in Iraq - the price of the sanctions is therefore too high. Vital drugs must be allowed into Iraq - otherwise we are aiding Saddam in his apparent objective of destroying his own people.
Alison Mountford, UK
I am bewildered how can a human being agree to starving out a fellow human being. It is true that there are no sanctions against food and medicine, but the whole issue is not as simple as that. Even though Iraq is exporting oil (albeit 30% for reparations), proceeds are not enough to sustain an entire nation of 22m. We must not forget that the stupidity of both the UN and the regime have devastated Iraq's economic infrastructure. Inflation is 1000%, unemployment is about 95%, and consequently ordinary people don't have enough money to buy even UN rations.
Ayad, UK
It is unashamed hypocrisy of the west to demand that Russia should use more proportionate means to quell the Chechen rebels when they starve Iraqi children. This is symbolic of a moral bankruptcy that permeates western foreign policy.
Tez, UK
The sanctions are a product of a world gone awry. Where is the humanity in all this absurdity? We need to end the insanity against the poor people of Iraq.
Nabella Shunnarah, USA
Yes, the sanctions should be lifted. We should be ashamed of ourselves as a nation.
Nabella Shunnarah, USA
I have read through the comments posted here and can see a very common thread. It seems as though people think that the sanctions against Iraq include Food, Medicine and basic humanitarian items. This is NOT the case, as Simon Ashall pointed out previously, these items are actually promoted in the Food for Oil program, if these items are not making it to the general population, then there is only 1 person to blame: Saddam Hussein! He has obviously decided that medicine and food for his country is not a priority, but weapons and palaces are. Stop blaming the West for imposing sanctions on a dictator and look to the causes of these actions, a man who has proven more than once that he is willing to kill anyone who doesn't toe the line, even his own family.
James Jeffrey, USA, but English
Saddam will not use any increase in income to help the people, he will use it to buy more weapons.
Richard T. Ketchum, USA
Richard Powell
I believe that the sanctions are killing innocent children, and causing tremendous suffering to the poor people of Iraq. Saddam Hussein is not affected a bit by these sanctions. Indeed, that may be the issue that makes Iraqis support him more. If the world regards the people of Iraq as humans, they should call for the lifting of these unfair sanctions and let these people have a dignified life. They may not be able to get red of Hussein, but they still deserve to live and rebuild a future.
A. M. A., USA
Nobody supports Saddam Hussein, certainly not the majority of the Iraqi people. Children are dying in Iraq - the price of the sanctions is therefore too high. Vital drugs must be allowed into Iraq - otherwise we are aiding Saddam in his apparent objective of destroying his own people.
Alison Mountford, UK
I am bewildered how can a human being agree to starving out a fellow human being. It is true that there are no sanctions against food and medicine, but the whole issue is not as simple as that. Even though Iraq is exporting oil (albeit 30% for reparations), proceeds are not enough to sustain an entire nation of 22m. We must not forget that the stupidity of both the UN and the regime have devastated Iraq's economic infrastructure. Inflation is 1000%, unemployment is about 95%, and consequently ordinary people don't have enough money to buy even UN rations.
Ayad, UK
It is unashamed hypocrisy of the west to demand that Russia should use more proportionate means to quell the Chechen rebels when they starve Iraqi children. This is symbolic of a moral bankruptcy that permeates western foreign policy.
Tez, UK
The sanctions are a product of a world gone awry. Where is the humanity in all this absurdity? We need to end the insanity against the poor people of Iraq.
Nabella Shunnarah, USA
Yes, the sanctions should be lifted. We should be ashamed of ourselves as a nation.
Nabella Shunnarah, USA
I have read through the comments posted here and can see a very common thread. It seems as though people think that the sanctions against Iraq include Food, Medicine and basic humanitarian items. This is NOT the case, as Simon Ashall pointed out previously, these items are actually promoted in the Food for Oil program, if these items are not making it to the general population, then there is only 1 person to blame: Saddam Hussein! He has obviously decided that medicine and food for his country is not a priority, but weapons and palaces are. Stop blaming the West for imposing sanctions on a dictator and look to the causes of these actions, a man who has proven more than once that he is willing to kill anyone who doesn't toe the line, even his own family.
James Jeffrey, USA, but English
Saddam will not use any increase in income to help the people, he will use it to buy more weapons.
Richard T. Ketchum, USA
Iraqi children should have the same rights to live as children in California. |
Sanam, Iran
|
Before it was Iran the West didn't like and tried everything to destroy it, even with sanctions, and motivating Iraq to damage it. Today time has changed and it's Iraq's turn. I don't know when Saddam changed to be a bad guy all of a sudden, as he was such a good friend for US and UK some years before.
What the West doesn't realise is that history will write what you are trying to do. Iraqi children should have same rights to live as children in California.
Sanam, Iran
Just suppose the sanctions are lifted and Saddam decides to fire a missile with a biological tipped warhead at Israel. Israel then responds with a nuclear attack on Iraq. All of a sudden there are a lot larger loss of life than I am hearing about now, and the world has become a lot more dangerous a place.
I know that I am in the minority but believe the sanctions are working. I believe we are protecting a lot more than the just US, Israel and British interests. If you can promise me that Saddam will not attack any other country with any weapon, then I will reconsider my position. Until then I will pray for the Iraqi people and what they are enduring at this time.
John McManamey, US
The sanctions against Iraqi people for the past 10 years is very cruel. It is not serving any purpose other than punishing the ordinary Iraqi people. Recently two Western humanitarian experts in Iraq resigned in protest of the ongoing sanctions. The punishment is too long and sanction should be lifted immediately without any pre-condition. Politics should not separate from the humanitarian issue.
TA Pushparajah, United Kingdom
What the West doesn't realise is that history will write what you are trying to do. Iraqi children should have same rights to live as children in California.
Sanam, Iran
Just suppose the sanctions are lifted and Saddam decides to fire a missile with a biological tipped warhead at Israel. Israel then responds with a nuclear attack on Iraq. All of a sudden there are a lot larger loss of life than I am hearing about now, and the world has become a lot more dangerous a place.
I know that I am in the minority but believe the sanctions are working. I believe we are protecting a lot more than the just US, Israel and British interests. If you can promise me that Saddam will not attack any other country with any weapon, then I will reconsider my position. Until then I will pray for the Iraqi people and what they are enduring at this time.
John McManamey, US
The sanctions against Iraqi people for the past 10 years is very cruel. It is not serving any purpose other than punishing the ordinary Iraqi people. Recently two Western humanitarian experts in Iraq resigned in protest of the ongoing sanctions. The punishment is too long and sanction should be lifted immediately without any pre-condition. Politics should not separate from the humanitarian issue.
TA Pushparajah, United Kingdom
I remember another regime that ruled South Africa - imagine if the world had lifted sanctions on them, apartheid would still be in existence. |
Carlos, Portugal
|
I remember another regime
that ruled South Africa - imagine if the world had lifted sanctions on them, apartheid
would still be in existence and
who would be suffering, not
everyone in the rest of the
world passing comments, but
the people of SA.
I think that sanctions should be kept in place as Iraq will be a much better place for the Iraqi people once Saddam is got rid of. Unfortunately there is a price, but forget not the objective.
Carlos, Portugal
This is full scale genocide against innocent Iraqi people by USA, UK and UN. Stop the human suffering in Iraq, and start cleaning the pollution you created with your bombs.
AA, UK
Sanctions should be lifted from Iraq and imposed on the obese and arrogant population of the United States who pass judgement on the lives of innocent people they know nothing about.
If the West want Saddam to stop stockpiling weapons then they should stop selling them to him. The British public are paying the debts for Saddam's arms expenditure and it was an American company that was selling him agar growth medium for the cultivation of biological agents long after the Kuwait incident occurred. Were the Iraqi general public responsible for this? I think not, so why should they suffer?
Gavin, UK
I think that sanctions should be kept in place as Iraq will be a much better place for the Iraqi people once Saddam is got rid of. Unfortunately there is a price, but forget not the objective.
Carlos, Portugal
This is full scale genocide against innocent Iraqi people by USA, UK and UN. Stop the human suffering in Iraq, and start cleaning the pollution you created with your bombs.
AA, UK
Sanctions should be lifted from Iraq and imposed on the obese and arrogant population of the United States who pass judgement on the lives of innocent people they know nothing about.
If the West want Saddam to stop stockpiling weapons then they should stop selling them to him. The British public are paying the debts for Saddam's arms expenditure and it was an American company that was selling him agar growth medium for the cultivation of biological agents long after the Kuwait incident occurred. Were the Iraqi general public responsible for this? I think not, so why should they suffer?
Gavin, UK
It is really hard to believe that someone who kills you does that because he wants to help you! |
Aleksandar Mihailovic, Canada
|
Bombs and suffering are not very good way to promote values of "American Democracy". It is about time for American politicians to understand that "the end does not justifies the means". It is really hard to believe that someone who kills you does that because he wants to help you!
Aleksandar Mihailovic, Canada
Are the sanctions hurting the regime? Are they stopping Saddam's weapons programme? The sanctions are prolonging the inevitable with the resultant loss of civilian life. The West for all it's bluff and bluster, was still too yellow for an all out invasion to oust this dictator. Perhaps this has been their intention all along?
Mark Koscak, Australia
I remember reading articles couple of months after the sanctions. It had pictures of Iraqi Women washing clothes in staled water with titles "These ladies were used to washing machines before gulf war". Now almost 11 years have gone, Its high time America and Britain show more values for their so-called status as human rights ambassadors.
Jee, India
Aleksandar Mihailovic, Canada
Are the sanctions hurting the regime? Are they stopping Saddam's weapons programme? The sanctions are prolonging the inevitable with the resultant loss of civilian life. The West for all it's bluff and bluster, was still too yellow for an all out invasion to oust this dictator. Perhaps this has been their intention all along?
Mark Koscak, Australia
I remember reading articles couple of months after the sanctions. It had pictures of Iraqi Women washing clothes in staled water with titles "These ladies were used to washing machines before gulf war". Now almost 11 years have gone, Its high time America and Britain show more values for their so-called status as human rights ambassadors.
Jee, India
It's only the minorities like the Kurds or intellectuals who are against Saddam! The majority are with Saddam the dictator! |
Dominic Chan, Singapore
|
I think the West had only one option and that option is starvation. I read through the mails and see that most of the people who are replying probably do not know whether the people supported the regime or not. It's only the minorities like the Kurds or intellectuals who are against Saddam! The majority are with Saddam the dictator! Since there is no justification in using weapons, the only weapon to let such a society conform to international pressure is through sanctions. Look at Libya, given time they finally succumbed to international pressure!
Dominic Chan, Singapore
Yes, right away. They have achieved nothing and caused much suffering. What must the Iraqi people think of us?
Ed Bayley, USA (English)
It is bad to see people so called modern, culturally and socially advanced in this modern time and age killing hundreds and thousands of innocent people with their sanctions and still sleeping well and without a sweat trickling down their spine.
These spineless people need to be made to stand in a row and made crippled so that they know the suffering that the people of Iraq and the world around by their sanctions and illegitimate high-handedness. Should they have any shame, they would lift the sanctions and help them build a better life for all the injustices they have done to the people of Iraq and world over.
Fasih Mohammed, USA
Dominic Chan, Singapore
Yes, right away. They have achieved nothing and caused much suffering. What must the Iraqi people think of us?
Ed Bayley, USA (English)
It is bad to see people so called modern, culturally and socially advanced in this modern time and age killing hundreds and thousands of innocent people with their sanctions and still sleeping well and without a sweat trickling down their spine.
These spineless people need to be made to stand in a row and made crippled so that they know the suffering that the people of Iraq and the world around by their sanctions and illegitimate high-handedness. Should they have any shame, they would lift the sanctions and help them build a better life for all the injustices they have done to the people of Iraq and world over.
Fasih Mohammed, USA
The USA merely wants to safeguard her supply of cheap oil to fuel her wasteful economy. |
Andy, Germany
|
It is about time the world realised that sanctions such as those imposed against Iraq have nothing to do with peace keeping or helping the population, but are the misguided actions of the US dominated UN who have not yet realised that the colonial era is now over.
The USA merely wants to safeguard her supply of cheap oil to fuel her wasteful economy. The automobile is the primary threat to ecology and survival on this planet, yet also a pillar of the outdated US economy. The US has a public transport system which is lousy even by third world standards, and that thanks to the deconstructivism of the automobile and oil industry. To maintain this status quo, innocent people in Iraq are being made to suffer and children are dying. Isn't it time we started seeing the whole picture and fighting problems at the roots?
Andy, Germany
I think it is very interesting that the RAF pilot shot down in the Gulf is going to Iraq with the charity aid plane in the next few days. Both the RAF pilots have been outspoken about sanctions/Iraq generally over the last few years, they should be listened to.
I remember last year seeing a picture of a dying child in Baghdad on the front page of the Guardian, that child's eyes haunted me for a long time afterwards. Tony Blair should remember that when Cherie has her baby she will get the best of care, and so will the child. At the same time in Iraq, several children will die for want of some clean water, a sachet of rehydration salts, or a basic immunisation injection. Perhaps Tony should think on that next time he spouts some sanctimonious rubbish about sanctions.
Antoinette Earl, UK
The USA merely wants to safeguard her supply of cheap oil to fuel her wasteful economy. The automobile is the primary threat to ecology and survival on this planet, yet also a pillar of the outdated US economy. The US has a public transport system which is lousy even by third world standards, and that thanks to the deconstructivism of the automobile and oil industry. To maintain this status quo, innocent people in Iraq are being made to suffer and children are dying. Isn't it time we started seeing the whole picture and fighting problems at the roots?
Andy, Germany
I think it is very interesting that the RAF pilot shot down in the Gulf is going to Iraq with the charity aid plane in the next few days. Both the RAF pilots have been outspoken about sanctions/Iraq generally over the last few years, they should be listened to.
I remember last year seeing a picture of a dying child in Baghdad on the front page of the Guardian, that child's eyes haunted me for a long time afterwards. Tony Blair should remember that when Cherie has her baby she will get the best of care, and so will the child. At the same time in Iraq, several children will die for want of some clean water, a sachet of rehydration salts, or a basic immunisation injection. Perhaps Tony should think on that next time he spouts some sanctimonious rubbish about sanctions.
Antoinette Earl, UK
To the people of Iraq; if you want your suffering to end, overthrow Hussein and embrace democracy and freedom. |
Simon Ashall, United Kingdom
|
Yes, the sanctions are killing Iraqis, but this is not the West's fault. Sanctions apply only to those materials which Saddam Hussein could use for military or industrial purposes. Food, medicine, and other humanitarian supplies have NEVER been denied Iraq - in fact, Saddam has been FORCED to buy them under Iraq's food-for-oil programme.
The reason that the Iraqi people are suffering is because Saddam, and his equally unpleasant son Uday, have been caught on several occasions by Kuwaiti coastguard vessels trying to smuggle humanitarian aid out of Iraq in order to sell it for hard cash. This cash is then used to build palaces, equip the Iraqi military, and issue state propaganda blaming the US-UK axis. To the people of Iraq; if you want your suffering to end, overthrow Hussein and embrace democracy and freedom.
Simon Ashall, United Kingdom
It's not sanctions, it's Western atrocities against millions of innocent people, America can't win any war or diplomacy in the Middle East.
Abdul Rafey, United States
What is the aim of sanctions? Why, to enforce weapon inspections... Yet most everyone who's given input thus far has bought into the PR - they think sanctions are to "oust Saddam from power". Likewise, the arguments either focus on "Saddam's" evil, or on the plight of the Iraqi people, not on the questionable legitimacy of the sanctions, or of their continuance now that their aims have been, for the most part, met.
H. Jester, USA
These sanctions are proving to be a weapon of mass destruction, quite effective in use. These rich and wealthy nations are failing to realise that poverty is a curse and imposed poverty is even worse. Iraqis too have all rights to live a prosperous life with dignity. Why should common Iraqis suffer for wrong deeds of an individual? After 10 years, sanctions seem just vengeance. It is high time that sanctions be lifted.
Bharat Bhushan, Germany/India
The reason that the Iraqi people are suffering is because Saddam, and his equally unpleasant son Uday, have been caught on several occasions by Kuwaiti coastguard vessels trying to smuggle humanitarian aid out of Iraq in order to sell it for hard cash. This cash is then used to build palaces, equip the Iraqi military, and issue state propaganda blaming the US-UK axis. To the people of Iraq; if you want your suffering to end, overthrow Hussein and embrace democracy and freedom.
Simon Ashall, United Kingdom
It's not sanctions, it's Western atrocities against millions of innocent people, America can't win any war or diplomacy in the Middle East.
Abdul Rafey, United States
What is the aim of sanctions? Why, to enforce weapon inspections... Yet most everyone who's given input thus far has bought into the PR - they think sanctions are to "oust Saddam from power". Likewise, the arguments either focus on "Saddam's" evil, or on the plight of the Iraqi people, not on the questionable legitimacy of the sanctions, or of their continuance now that their aims have been, for the most part, met.
H. Jester, USA
These sanctions are proving to be a weapon of mass destruction, quite effective in use. These rich and wealthy nations are failing to realise that poverty is a curse and imposed poverty is even worse. Iraqis too have all rights to live a prosperous life with dignity. Why should common Iraqis suffer for wrong deeds of an individual? After 10 years, sanctions seem just vengeance. It is high time that sanctions be lifted.
Bharat Bhushan, Germany/India
Could it be that the Britain and the US are now busily destroying the evidence? |
David,
UK
|
I travelled through much of Northern Iraq a few years ago, following the end of the Gulf War. At that time even the Kurdish people were regretting the effects of sanctions because previously the Iraqi regime, for all its faults, looked after its people very well particularly in the health and education sectors.
As someone who has worked for the UN, not in Iraq, I can fully sympathise with the frustration of the Iraqis who have to deal with these overpaid and underskilled civil servants.
Beyond all of this, there has to be another factor in the equation that we, the public, are unaware of, because the intensity and duration of the sanctions and military actions do not otherwise make sense.
Could it be that the "West" assisted Iraq in the development of weapons of mass destruction during the time that the Iranians were the pariahs? Could it be that the Britain and the US are now busily destroying the evidence?
David, UK
The sanctions are there to stop a corrupt and psychopathic regime from gaining further funds to spend on weapons that seriously damage the stability in that part of the world and beyond. If we drop sanctions, more money floods in. More bombs, chemical weapons, biological weapons and a whole host of things will be purchased. Yes its nasty that people are suffering - but that isn't directly caused by the West - that is DIRECTLY caused by Saddam. If he grows we could lose serious amounts of life and BOY would the do-gooders change their minds and have a field day. In the west. We have one choice. Stare the mass murderer out before another mess like Kuwait can happen again.
Sandy, Norway
Sometime ago Mrs Albright said that the death of 6000 children a month in Iraq is a necessary evil. I wonder how the American / European public would react if that was happening in their country??
Omar, Palestine
As someone who has worked for the UN, not in Iraq, I can fully sympathise with the frustration of the Iraqis who have to deal with these overpaid and underskilled civil servants.
Beyond all of this, there has to be another factor in the equation that we, the public, are unaware of, because the intensity and duration of the sanctions and military actions do not otherwise make sense.
Could it be that the "West" assisted Iraq in the development of weapons of mass destruction during the time that the Iranians were the pariahs? Could it be that the Britain and the US are now busily destroying the evidence?
David, UK
The sanctions are there to stop a corrupt and psychopathic regime from gaining further funds to spend on weapons that seriously damage the stability in that part of the world and beyond. If we drop sanctions, more money floods in. More bombs, chemical weapons, biological weapons and a whole host of things will be purchased. Yes its nasty that people are suffering - but that isn't directly caused by the West - that is DIRECTLY caused by Saddam. If he grows we could lose serious amounts of life and BOY would the do-gooders change their minds and have a field day. In the west. We have one choice. Stare the mass murderer out before another mess like Kuwait can happen again.
Sandy, Norway
Sometime ago Mrs Albright said that the death of 6000 children a month in Iraq is a necessary evil. I wonder how the American / European public would react if that was happening in their country??
Omar, Palestine
It is Saddam Hussein , not UN sanctions, that kills Iraqi children |
Igor,
The Netherlands
|
People in here seem to think that it is the UN sanctions that kill Iraqi children. I think it is Saddam Hussein , not UN sanctions that kills Iraqi children. The allies biggest mistake after the gulf war was that they did not invade Iraq. If they would have invaded and occupied Iraq they could have set up a stable government, economic, legal system etc. They also would have been able to destroy any remaining weapons. The Allies are too much afraid of the Arab world cutting off oil supplies.
Igor, The Netherlands
If this wasn't so serious and inhumane it would be comical. Iraq helps the West against Iran. Now the West wants oil reserves in Iran so Iran is OK and because Iraq attacked Kuwait over oil Iraq is the big bad wolf. But wait: the west is bringing death and disease to Iraqi people. Morale of the story: Friends should never fall out. Or could it be: Never befriend the West?
David Moses, Israel
I suspect that the pain and suffering the sanctions have inflicted on the Iraqi people makes it very unlikely that Saddam's eventual replacement will be inclined to seek good relations with the countries perceived as being responsible for the imposition and maintenance of the sanctions. All the sanctions are doing is breeding deep resentment which will not be dissipated by a change of government in Iraq.
Taiwo Hollist, Belgium
How much longer do we need to have them in place before they start working. The reality is that sanctions have not, and will not work, and cause those in power to capitulate. When you are starving, your first priority is food. When your child is dying, your first priority is their survival. When you are fit and fed, then you can turn your efforts to ousting the government. Plus, if the sanctions (supported really only by the US and UK) are lifted, the US would get its wish of lower oil prices!
Paul H, NL
Lifting sanctions may save a few more Iraqi children in the short term, but in the long run may end up killing a lot more people around Iraq if Saddam is able to rebuild his chemical weapons.
Jason, UK
Killing people by weapons or by sanctions is a CRIME.
Gabriel, Norway
As a Muslim and an Iraqi I do believe that the sanction regime has only one aim - to weaken this important country and ensure that they never threaten Western interests and its main ally Israel. I pray every day, that the suffering of the Iraqi people and all Muslims ends. I also pray that God put those who continue to cause this suffering (including those in Iraq) in harms way. Is this the kind of future you want for your children? Do you want millions of children to grow up seeking revenge for their suffering? How long can you depend on your military might, 5yrs, 10, 20,50..?
Al_Iraqi, Iraq
Saddam Hussein is a dictator that has served the West well. His weapons were provided by the West during the Iran-Iraq war. So this problem is actually the West's creation. If they wanted to get rid of him so badly they should have done it with an invasion during the Gulf War. Sanctions on Iraq with the purpose of causing a popular revolt do not seem to work. Why should it be left to the people of Iraq to clear up a problem that we created in the first place? In fact we are still punishing civilians that have had to endure a terrible regime. We are killing them and destroying the fabric of their society. We must find a more proactive approach apart from bombing and sanctions to resolve our hypocrisy.
Adam, UK
How many more years of almost daily bombings by the US and the UK, destroying civilian targets. I read 80 percent of the schools have been hit! Is all that not crime against humanity? What does this population have to do with the US liking or disliking their government? And one knows already for years that embargo makes more casualties among the population than real war?
Pierre C., Belgium
The wise king Solomon said one should never catch a mad dog by the tail as one could then never let go. We are now holding on for dear life.
Charles Dique, USA
The crisis in Iraq has been unfolding for many years now, and the main culprits are the US and the UK. It is time they both ended their vendetta and allowed the people of Iraq, especially the children, to LIVE.
Donald Wildsmith, Canada
The people who complain about the human suffering in Iraq should blame it on Saddam Hussein not the UN. Britain, America and any other country in the world has every right to defend themselves from dictators like Saddam Hussein, fascism, communism, and any other threat to democracy!
Richard, Wales
Saddam does not give a damn about his people. All he has in his vision is power. The US doesn't give a damn about the Iraqi people - all it has in sight is Saddam, oil and winning a battle of hard-heads with a tyrant. No one pays attention to the Iraqis, they are dying by the thousands of hunger and diseases. The only party that does not count in the clash of the BULLIES is the people.
YS, USA
I wish to express my profound respect to Labour MP George Galloway who has stood up for what he believed in, and to every supporter of the Iraqi people. It is outrageous to believe that the U.S. and the U.K. are naive enough to think that these sanctions on Iraq will actually affect Saddam Hussein's regime. He is not the one suffering and, most probably, just like any other dictator, the suffering of his people is not of any importance to him.
Furthermore, if one country has violated more than 69 UN resolutions, dispossessed 762,000 people, seized other nations by military force and continues to occupy it in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions and refuses to prosecute soldiers who have acknowledged executing prisoners of war, shouldn't the U.N. and the world community do something about it? How about a few sanctions against Israel for a change?
Lena El-Malak, Canada
Igor, The Netherlands
If this wasn't so serious and inhumane it would be comical. Iraq helps the West against Iran. Now the West wants oil reserves in Iran so Iran is OK and because Iraq attacked Kuwait over oil Iraq is the big bad wolf. But wait: the west is bringing death and disease to Iraqi people. Morale of the story: Friends should never fall out. Or could it be: Never befriend the West?
David Moses, Israel
I suspect that the pain and suffering the sanctions have inflicted on the Iraqi people makes it very unlikely that Saddam's eventual replacement will be inclined to seek good relations with the countries perceived as being responsible for the imposition and maintenance of the sanctions. All the sanctions are doing is breeding deep resentment which will not be dissipated by a change of government in Iraq.
Taiwo Hollist, Belgium
How much longer do we need to have them in place before they start working. The reality is that sanctions have not, and will not work, and cause those in power to capitulate. When you are starving, your first priority is food. When your child is dying, your first priority is their survival. When you are fit and fed, then you can turn your efforts to ousting the government. Plus, if the sanctions (supported really only by the US and UK) are lifted, the US would get its wish of lower oil prices!
Paul H, NL
Lifting sanctions may save a few more Iraqi children in the short term, but in the long run may end up killing a lot more people around Iraq if Saddam is able to rebuild his chemical weapons.
Jason, UK
Killing people by weapons or by sanctions is a CRIME.
Gabriel, Norway
As a Muslim and an Iraqi I do believe that the sanction regime has only one aim - to weaken this important country and ensure that they never threaten Western interests and its main ally Israel. I pray every day, that the suffering of the Iraqi people and all Muslims ends. I also pray that God put those who continue to cause this suffering (including those in Iraq) in harms way. Is this the kind of future you want for your children? Do you want millions of children to grow up seeking revenge for their suffering? How long can you depend on your military might, 5yrs, 10, 20,50..?
Al_Iraqi, Iraq
Saddam Hussein is a dictator that has served the West well. His weapons were provided by the West during the Iran-Iraq war. So this problem is actually the West's creation. If they wanted to get rid of him so badly they should have done it with an invasion during the Gulf War. Sanctions on Iraq with the purpose of causing a popular revolt do not seem to work. Why should it be left to the people of Iraq to clear up a problem that we created in the first place? In fact we are still punishing civilians that have had to endure a terrible regime. We are killing them and destroying the fabric of their society. We must find a more proactive approach apart from bombing and sanctions to resolve our hypocrisy.
Adam, UK
How many more years of almost daily bombings by the US and the UK, destroying civilian targets. I read 80 percent of the schools have been hit! Is all that not crime against humanity? What does this population have to do with the US liking or disliking their government? And one knows already for years that embargo makes more casualties among the population than real war?
Pierre C., Belgium
The wise king Solomon said one should never catch a mad dog by the tail as one could then never let go. We are now holding on for dear life.
Charles Dique, USA
The crisis in Iraq has been unfolding for many years now, and the main culprits are the US and the UK. It is time they both ended their vendetta and allowed the people of Iraq, especially the children, to LIVE.
Donald Wildsmith, Canada
The people who complain about the human suffering in Iraq should blame it on Saddam Hussein not the UN. Britain, America and any other country in the world has every right to defend themselves from dictators like Saddam Hussein, fascism, communism, and any other threat to democracy!
Richard, Wales
Saddam does not give a damn about his people. All he has in his vision is power. The US doesn't give a damn about the Iraqi people - all it has in sight is Saddam, oil and winning a battle of hard-heads with a tyrant. No one pays attention to the Iraqis, they are dying by the thousands of hunger and diseases. The only party that does not count in the clash of the BULLIES is the people.
YS, USA
I wish to express my profound respect to Labour MP George Galloway who has stood up for what he believed in, and to every supporter of the Iraqi people. It is outrageous to believe that the U.S. and the U.K. are naive enough to think that these sanctions on Iraq will actually affect Saddam Hussein's regime. He is not the one suffering and, most probably, just like any other dictator, the suffering of his people is not of any importance to him.
Furthermore, if one country has violated more than 69 UN resolutions, dispossessed 762,000 people, seized other nations by military force and continues to occupy it in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions and refuses to prosecute soldiers who have acknowledged executing prisoners of war, shouldn't the U.N. and the world community do something about it? How about a few sanctions against Israel for a change?
Lena El-Malak, Canada
It is time, after a decade, to look at other options to attain the goal. |
Pat van der Veer,
A "Brit" in Nova Scotia
|
I have a question and a comment...
Sanctions have been applied against many countries during past years, are there illustrations of such actions actually having had the desired effect?
I think that despots like Saddam Hussein are very capable of minimising the effects of any sanctions on himself and his followers, therefore I wonder about the effectiveness of the western sanctions. He obviously does not care very much for the general population, but can probably use the actions of the "cold shouldering" UN in a propaganda war. It is time, after a decade, to look at other options to attain the goal.
Pat van der Veer, A "Brit" in Nova Scotia
Yes the sanctions should be lilted. Death, malnutrition, disease and human suffering should not be a tool to change a government.
Barakat, USA
Sanctions have been applied against many countries during past years, are there illustrations of such actions actually having had the desired effect?
I think that despots like Saddam Hussein are very capable of minimising the effects of any sanctions on himself and his followers, therefore I wonder about the effectiveness of the western sanctions. He obviously does not care very much for the general population, but can probably use the actions of the "cold shouldering" UN in a propaganda war. It is time, after a decade, to look at other options to attain the goal.
Pat van der Veer, A "Brit" in Nova Scotia
Yes the sanctions should be lilted. Death, malnutrition, disease and human suffering should not be a tool to change a government.
Barakat, USA
It is the responsibility of the Iraqi people to seek a better life. |
J Bolden, USA
|
I do believe that once the Iraqis are sick and tired of Saddam Hussein, his removal out of power will follow. Until that happens, it would be immature for the UN to remove the sanctions that has kept
heartless Hussein from continuing to carry out his evil intentions against his neighbours and the entire humanity.
It is the responsibility of the Iraqi people to seek a better life than to harbour themselves under the pride and stubbornness under which Saddam Hussein chooses for them.
J Bolden, USA
Although Saddam Hussein is still in place, surely at least selective removal of sanctions should be actioned. The people of Iraq have suffered enough. What about the Turkish actions against the Turkish. What about the continued (and unreported) bombing of Iraq by our and the US airforces. Surely this is being as bad and hypocritical as the current Iraqi regime.
It appears that (although not quite on the same scale) the Labour regime are forcing their own ways on everyone in this country. What about attempting to push in their puppet for the London Mayor. Speeding through reform of the Lords in the unfairest of ways. Next they will be modifying the Constitution stating that Tony is President and there is no longer a Queen.
Mark, UK
It is the responsibility of the Iraqi people to seek a better life than to harbour themselves under the pride and stubbornness under which Saddam Hussein chooses for them.
J Bolden, USA
Although Saddam Hussein is still in place, surely at least selective removal of sanctions should be actioned. The people of Iraq have suffered enough. What about the Turkish actions against the Turkish. What about the continued (and unreported) bombing of Iraq by our and the US airforces. Surely this is being as bad and hypocritical as the current Iraqi regime.
It appears that (although not quite on the same scale) the Labour regime are forcing their own ways on everyone in this country. What about attempting to push in their puppet for the London Mayor. Speeding through reform of the Lords in the unfairest of ways. Next they will be modifying the Constitution stating that Tony is President and there is no longer a Queen.
Mark, UK
The UN must follow the humanitarian principle rather than playing political games. |
Shivan, Canada
|
The UN must lift the sanctions on Iraq. The UN must follow the humanitarian principle rather than playing political games. Remember all the people are good in their heart. Actually USA and UK have created these situations and imposed this sanctions on Iraq people. Are we depending on either of these countries? Live with your courage, die with your dignity.
Shivan, Canada
The sanctions are not having their desired effect. Saddam does not care about the suffering of his people; all he cares about is retaining power. By giving the Iraqi people someone else to blame for their plight, the UN are only helping him to achieve his aim. An alternative to sanctions must be found that prevents Saddam from rebuilding his WMD arsenal without hurting the innocent people of Iraq. Saddam no longer has a WMD capability and sanctions should be lifted in return for regular UN weapons inspector access to prevent him from staring again.
Adrian Smith, UK
Yes Saddam is a terrible dictator and he has invaded another country, but then have so many others. Iraq's very own next door neighbour - Israel - has been invading and occupying other nations for quite a number of years, they have also been developing weapons of mass destruction. Yet for some reason we in the west don't sanction them. Why not, they have done more to destabilise the Middle East than Iraq. The difference being that Israel is an ally of the US where as Iraq is not.
Brian, UK
Shivan, Canada
The sanctions are not having their desired effect. Saddam does not care about the suffering of his people; all he cares about is retaining power. By giving the Iraqi people someone else to blame for their plight, the UN are only helping him to achieve his aim. An alternative to sanctions must be found that prevents Saddam from rebuilding his WMD arsenal without hurting the innocent people of Iraq. Saddam no longer has a WMD capability and sanctions should be lifted in return for regular UN weapons inspector access to prevent him from staring again.
Adrian Smith, UK
Yes Saddam is a terrible dictator and he has invaded another country, but then have so many others. Iraq's very own next door neighbour - Israel - has been invading and occupying other nations for quite a number of years, they have also been developing weapons of mass destruction. Yet for some reason we in the west don't sanction them. Why not, they have done more to destabilise the Middle East than Iraq. The difference being that Israel is an ally of the US where as Iraq is not.
Brian, UK
Saddam must be stared down and subdued.
|
Collin, Canada
|
I truly feel for the innocents in Iraq. The situation in Iraq is artificially made worse by a ruthless regime to get world sympathy and let Saddam have his way. He has hidden his chemical, biological and nuclear projects to a very large degree. A viral incubator in the back of a mobile truck can quickly produce enough VX to decimate London.
It would only take one asylum seeker with a test tube to set off a pretty horrible jihad in England, Europe or N. America. Saddam must be stared down and subdued period. When he is gone, help Iraq gain its justified place in the world.
Collin, Canada
Having seen the suffering of the Iraqi people, especially children, I cannot understand how the US and UK governments can morally justify the these sanctions. Quite simply it is a mass murder of of a entire civilisation.
After 10 years it has become clear that the sanctions are not hurting the regime and it would be pointless to continue them.
Asif Rehman, UK
It would only take one asylum seeker with a test tube to set off a pretty horrible jihad in England, Europe or N. America. Saddam must be stared down and subdued period. When he is gone, help Iraq gain its justified place in the world.
Collin, Canada
Having seen the suffering of the Iraqi people, especially children, I cannot understand how the US and UK governments can morally justify the these sanctions. Quite simply it is a mass murder of of a entire civilisation.
After 10 years it has become clear that the sanctions are not hurting the regime and it would be pointless to continue them.
Asif Rehman, UK
It is so wrong, these are children for goodness sake. |
Louise, UK
|
Did anyone see the programme about the children of Iraq on the 6th of March? My God it is bad enough for children in the United Kingdom who have life threatening diseases such as cancer but the children of Iraq have barely any medication to treat these diseases. It is so wrong, these are children for goodness sake.
Louise, UK
Why should we lift them? If the people of Iraq wouldn't get rid of a tyrant like Saddam let 'em suffer!!!!!!!!
Gordon Jarrell, USA
I think it's outrageous that sanctions have not been lifted. Once again innocent civilians are the target. It does seem rather unjust that the US would never allow other nations to investigate their own arms control which is probably far more frightening and real than that of Saddam Hussein's Iraq.
Jules Gale, UK
Louise, UK
Why should we lift them? If the people of Iraq wouldn't get rid of a tyrant like Saddam let 'em suffer!!!!!!!!
Gordon Jarrell, USA
I think it's outrageous that sanctions have not been lifted. Once again innocent civilians are the target. It does seem rather unjust that the US would never allow other nations to investigate their own arms control which is probably far more frightening and real than that of Saddam Hussein's Iraq.
Jules Gale, UK
Sanctions are the only alternative. |
Mikko Toivonen, Finland
|
The sanctions should absolutely be held until Iraqi government allows for full and free inspection at any site, including Saddam's fridge that may contain "potential nutrients" for biological weapons.
Iraqi government has more than adequately proven its willingness to attack anybody in the vicinity when given a chance. That chance should be completely eradicated.
The problem with the weapons inspection is that it will not eradicate that problem. Only total change of government and way of governing will eradicate it. Until that sanctions are the only alternative.
Mikko Toivonen, Finland
Sanctions have killed more people in Iraq than both Atomic Bombs in Japan. People would not agree that dropping a nuclear bomb on Iraq would be humane, so why slow starvation and the dismantling of a society. The Kurds have more to fear from Turkey than Iraq.
The fact that it would be called a victory for Saddam is nothing but our fault for being so unbelievably naïve about the way a ruthless dictator would respond to us killing his subjects, he does not care about them. We should.
Geoff Horrell, UK
The problem with the weapons inspection is that it will not eradicate that problem. Only total change of government and way of governing will eradicate it. Until that sanctions are the only alternative.
Mikko Toivonen, Finland
Sanctions have killed more people in Iraq than both Atomic Bombs in Japan. People would not agree that dropping a nuclear bomb on Iraq would be humane, so why slow starvation and the dismantling of a society. The Kurds have more to fear from Turkey than Iraq.
The fact that it would be called a victory for Saddam is nothing but our fault for being so unbelievably naïve about the way a ruthless dictator would respond to us killing his subjects, he does not care about them. We should.
Geoff Horrell, UK
People are hungry and we mustn't blame Saddam Hussein for that because it would not be progressive to do so. |
Rath Andor,
USA
|
Sure, lift the sanctions. Never mind that Saddam Hussein is still in power, still building chemical and biological weaponry, still refusing to acknowledge the legal existence of Kuwait, still determined to crush all political resistance to his tyranny, still determined to exterminate the Kurdish minority in the north, still using state money to finance his lavish lifestyle and war machine rather than alleviate the suffering of the 18 million Iraqis imprisoned inside their own nation.
Rath Andor, USA
I can't wait for the days when the children of Iraq will be able to have their three times daily meals, one of the basic requirements of human survival.
Tajudeen Isiaka, Nigeria
Yes, keep the sanctions in place. The innocent people of Iraq, who are terrified of Saddam, are very sadly suffering but the moment we start lifting the sanctions it will be pronounced 'A great victory' for the people of Iraq. Why do they believe this sort of lunacy? The likelihood it's the threat of being shot if they don't. I really don't know when the sanctions should be lifted, but I strongly believe that Saddam's regime should end before anything else happens. Would this solve the problem? Who knows.
Mike, UK
I was deeply touched by the courage of the gentlemen who resigned about the continuing sanctions and spoke out again and again. I pray that they will succeed in their urgent quest. May London and Washington stop their quibbling about Saddam and let Iraq live.
A Shew
I believe that selective removal of sanctions to allow Iraq to meet its humanitarian need has to be allowed. Let's not forget however that Iraq is ruled by a ruthless dictator and we should not trust him. If sanctions are to be selectively withdrawn then it should be on the basis of some tangible commitment from Iraq.
Duncan, UK
Disclaimer: The BBC will put up as many of your comments as possible but we cannot guarantee that all e-mails will be published. The BBC reserves the right to edit comments that are published.Rath Andor, USA
I can't wait for the days when the children of Iraq will be able to have their three times daily meals, one of the basic requirements of human survival.
Tajudeen Isiaka, Nigeria
Yes, keep the sanctions in place. The innocent people of Iraq, who are terrified of Saddam, are very sadly suffering but the moment we start lifting the sanctions it will be pronounced 'A great victory' for the people of Iraq. Why do they believe this sort of lunacy? The likelihood it's the threat of being shot if they don't. I really don't know when the sanctions should be lifted, but I strongly believe that Saddam's regime should end before anything else happens. Would this solve the problem? Who knows.
Mike, UK
I was deeply touched by the courage of the gentlemen who resigned about the continuing sanctions and spoke out again and again. I pray that they will succeed in their urgent quest. May London and Washington stop their quibbling about Saddam and let Iraq live.
A Shew
I believe that selective removal of sanctions to allow Iraq to meet its humanitarian need has to be allowed. Let's not forget however that Iraq is ruled by a ruthless dictator and we should not trust him. If sanctions are to be selectively withdrawn then it should be on the basis of some tangible commitment from Iraq.
Duncan, UK
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