Rumsfeld’s Rules in Iraq
Secretary Rumsfeld gives us a progress report on post-war Iraq and shows us what the Allies will do to grow a liberal democracy there. For those who are worried that the U.S. will leave before rebuilding Iraq, Rumsfeld writes:
The Coalition will maintain as many security forces in Iraq as necessary, for as long as necessary, to accomplish the stated goals–and no longer. Already 39 nations have offered stabilization forces or other needed assistance for the postwar effort, and that number is growing. Together, coalition countries will seek to provide a secure environment, so that over time Iraqis will be able to take charge of their country.
Remnants of the Baath Party will not be allowed to exert power. “De-Baathification” and the promotion of liberal Iraqis will take place.
For countries that opposed the war, a price will be paid:
Whenever possible, contracts for work in Iraq will go to those who will use Iraqi workers and to countries that supported the Iraqi people’s liberation so as to contribute to greater regional economic activity and to accelerate Iraq’s and the region’s economic recovery.
In other words, French companies are screwed.
Then Rumsfeld warns Iran that Iraq won’t become another part of their Islamic Revolution:
Assistance from Iraq’s neighbors will be welcomed. Conversely, interference in Iraq by its neighbors or their proxies–including those whose objective is to remake Iraq in Iran’s image–will not be accepted or permitted.
What is needed the most in Iraq is patience. Rumsfled points out that it took eight years for our Founding Fathers to write our Constitution to replace the Articles of Confederation. It’s only been seven weeks since the ouster of Saddam. Much needs to be done to build a modern, stable, and free Iraq.
“Core Principles for a Free Iraq” [via Patio Pundit]
