Iraq moves against U.S.-backed Sunnis

The Sunnis taking part in the security of Iraq, even though they were bought off, were one of the biggest reasons the violence in Iraq has decreased and along with that, the loss of life of our troops has gone down as well. The added number of troops did not have as much effect as this. Plus, if you have been paying attention to the numbers through the years, you'll understand the surge in troops was more in order of replacing other nations, including the UK, have cut back or pulled out of Iraq. Now with Georgia, with 2,000 troops pulled out to deal with their own nation's security, this is one of the worst moves the Iraqi government could make.

Iraq moves against U.S.-backed Sunnis

By Hamza Hendawi - The Associated Press
Posted : Monday Aug 18, 2008 17:06:05 EDT

BAGHDAD — The Shiite-led government is cracking down on U.S.-backed Sunni Arab fighters in one of Iraq’s most turbulent regions, arresting some leaders, disarming dozens of men and banning them from manning checkpoints except alongside official security forces.

The moves in Diyala province reflect mixed views on a movement that began in 2007 among Sunni tribes in western Iraq who revolted against al-Qaida in Iraq and joined Americans in the fight against the terrorist network.

U.S. officials credit the rise of such groups, known variously as Awakening Councils, Sons of Iraq and Popular Committees, with helping rout al-Qaida.

But Iraq’s government is suspicious of such groups, fearing their decision to break with the insurgency was a short-term tactic to gain U.S. money and support. The government fears they will eventually turn their guns against Iraq’s majority Shiites.
go here for more
http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/08/ap_iraq_crackdown_081808/