Photo By 1st Lt. Kelly McManus | Sheiks from the central and southern provinces of Iraq gathered in the home of Emir...... read more read more
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AL KUT, Iraq – The sound of clicking prayer beads filled the room as nearly 60 sheiks from across Iraq gathered Thursday afternoon in the home of Emir Rabi’a Mohammad al-Habib al-Rabi’a, Prince of the Rabia’a Confederation.
Al-Rabi’a addressed the attendees, welcoming the sheiks and members of U.S. Forces to his home to discuss the future political and military situation in Iraq.
“The United States is the most powerful and most developed country in this world, and when they came to Iraq, we thought they would be able to change the Iraqis’ life and give us freedom and democracy,” stated al-Rabi’a, speaking from a prepared script.
“After the U.S. invaded Germany and Japan, they became one of the best and richest countries in the world. Why not Iraq?”
In turn, Maj. Gen. Bernard Champoux, commander of U.S. Forces in central and southern Iraq, spoke to the sheiks, encouraging them to use their influence to make Iraq a more stable and peaceful nation.
“Iraq is at a critical juncture on its path to democracy and tribes have and will continue to play a very important role in Iraq’s political future,” said Champoux.”Tribes have an enormous impact on economic enterprises and economic development in Iraq by supporting business start-up and development, assisting with security and stability, and fostering a climate that allows for effective foreign investment and international development in Iraq.”
Despite their realm of influence and direct connection with the Iraqi populace, the sheiks currently do not play a large role in the politics of Iraq,
“The council of sheiks believe that they can greatly improve the security situation in Iraq if the government allows them to engage the issues,” said Col. Scott Efflandt, commander of 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. “They are very aware of the needs of the Iraqi people, and their views on the provincial economy and security are valuable.”
The majority of Iraqis are members of Arab tribes and oftentimes, Iraqis will feel a stronger allegiance to their tribe than the Government of Iraq, empowering the sheiks whom fulfill the role of tribal leaders.
Two members from the State Department were also in attendance to make initial introductions with the sheiks and further develop the productive relationship the Army established. Their presence shows that Dec. 31 does not mark an end point, but rather a transition of authority from military to civilian.
Efflandt expects to continue discussions with the sheiks to cement a long-term partnership beyond the departure of U.S. Forces from Iraq.
| Date Taken: | 09.22.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 09.25.2011 09:00 |
| Story ID: | 77554 |
| Location: | AL KUT, IQ |
| Web Views: | 145 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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