Iraq and Afghanistan

Today’s paper reports on the excellent reputation Dutch soldiers are developing in one of the less conflicted provinces between Baghdad and Kuwait. Their approach is decidedly low key. They do not wear armor on their persons or vehicles. They emphasis small public works projects. They are well respected by the local people and have friendly relations with them. The result is a marked contrast between the attitudes that the Iraqis have toward the Dutch and toward the Americans. The Americans come though town only in heavily armed convoys. They seem to feel that everyone in their path is an enemy. On occasion they have even killed local Iraqis that got in the way of their vehicles, and never slowed down. In reaction the Americans are seen simply as occupiers who have no interest in helping the Iraqis. The bristling Americans racing through the streets have had their experience in much tougher environments or have been indoctrinated by “old hands” who have had this experience. It is easy in this environment to develop the idea that every Iraqi is an enemy. Many of the Americans had originally intended to take the Dutch approach. (I remember a discussion of the approach the Marines intended to take in some areas.) But their experience has taught them a different doctrine. Perhaps an effort could be made to avoid having people who have developed a fearful/brutal attitude toward Iraqis come in contact with the people. Units composed of such persons should either be shipped home or used only in the most dangerous areas. Otherwise, we are making enemies even where we do not need to have enemies.