Following the liberation of Iraq in 2003, why are Iraqis still fighting? To extinguish the fires that burn in Iraq, one must discover why it is ablaze, what would move Iraqi politicians to put out the fires, and what would induce Iraq’s neighbors to quench the flames. So, what are the causes of violence in Iraq? First, the occupation of Iraq provided the initial spark and ongoing heat for the insurgencies. Second, ethnic and religious strife, prior discrimination by Sunnis against Shiites, disputes over federalism, de-Baathification policies, differences over a proposed national oil law, and disputes about equitable distribution of oil and natural gas revenues contribute to Iraqi instability. Third, Tehran’s subversive sponsorship of militias is like oxygen fanning the flames of conflict in Iraq.This book will offer ideas on how to put out the fires.
Baghdad Ablaze insightfully evaluates the U.S. invasion and occupation as a spark and pretext for terrorist groups to build organizations, sects to broaden their political base, and Iran to control Iraq. The book makes crucial suggestions regarding how occupation forces can end the violence instead of inspiring it. The incisiveness of these ideas about Iraq for Europe and America complement the author’s book, What Makes Tehran Tick.
Paulo Casaca, Portugese Member of European Parliament
Baghdad Ablaze is exceptional in its portrayal of the political landscape of Iraq. The book paints a picture of ethnic differences, legacy of discrimination against Shiites by Sunnis, and sectarian violence. According to evidence in Baghdad Ablaze, sectarian tensions were dormant until unleashed by occupation, and exacerbated by the Iranian regime.
Struan Stevenson, Scottish Member of European Parliament
Baghdad Ablaze artfully confirms the complexity of the conflict in Iraq. It also pinpoints illegal Iranian intervention in the conflict through the use of unconventional forces and proxy organizations, which merge to feed instability in Iraq and Iraqi sectarian dependence upon Tehran.
General Alexander M. Haig, Jr. (USA Ret.), Former Secretary of State