KP Newsflash (10/25/2009): Iraq & Kurdistan
Earlier this morning, a massive attack in Baghdad killed 150 people and some 500 people were injured:
I see this attack as quite significant. In about 2 months, the country is going to the polls. There is a supposed consesus that things are supposedly getting better. Security may have improved. But, the underlying causes of the malaise in Iraq is yet to be solved. There are some reports I have seen of a rise in business confidence. But, the continued challenges and such attacks will present profound challenges.
In Iraq, there are even problems in Kurdistan. This supposed Island of stability is run by the Barzani and Talibani clans. The reports I have seen point to these families using their power to enrich themselves. The controversy over the oil deals and the role of Galbraith, the former US Envoy, puts a shadow over whatever supposed achievements made. I have never received an explanation as to why the Kurdistan Regional Government needs foreign representation. They are acting like an indepedent country in all but name only. And I see that the former Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, Bahram Saleh, has been designated by Barzani to form the next Kurdistan Government. Who are they fooling?
I see this attack as quite significant. In about 2 months, the country is going to the polls. There is a supposed consesus that things are supposedly getting better. Security may have improved. But, the underlying causes of the malaise in Iraq is yet to be solved. There are some reports I have seen of a rise in business confidence. But, the continued challenges and such attacks will present profound challenges.
In Iraq, there are even problems in Kurdistan. This supposed Island of stability is run by the Barzani and Talibani clans. The reports I have seen point to these families using their power to enrich themselves. The controversy over the oil deals and the role of Galbraith, the former US Envoy, puts a shadow over whatever supposed achievements made. I have never received an explanation as to why the Kurdistan Regional Government needs foreign representation. They are acting like an indepedent country in all but name only. And I see that the former Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, Bahram Saleh, has been designated by Barzani to form the next Kurdistan Government. Who are they fooling?
Mike Pouraryan
