Iraqis are at the polls today to elect a new four year parliament. There are accounts everywhere on the Internet, but I found this one from the BBC highlighting press accounts from Mideast papers interesting. A Sample:
"It is not an exaggeration to say that today is a historic day for the brotherly Iraqi people... We sincerely hope that all Iraqis will take part with enthusiasm and without hesitation in today's elections for the sake of a better Iraq, and more importantly to preserve the territorial integrity of Iraq and the unity of its people and society."
"It seems that the Sunni Arabs have finally been convinced that the best solution for Iraq's future is a political one and that their boycotting of the political process will be useless and will achieve no privileges for them other than more marginalisation."
"On the basis of the American view, which may be right, the success of the Iraqi political experiment is bound to provide a model to be emulated in Syria and in the various countries neighbouring Iraq."
Some are skeptical:
"The elections in Iraq will determine the destiny not only of Iraq but also of the Middle East and Turkey. I wish I were mistaken but I do not expect any result that will guarantee the integrity of Iraq."
Others speak a more pragmatic view:
"Iraq will not turn into an oasis of calm and stability after these elections. The security situation is unlikely to improve. On the contrary, the situation may become more inflamed... The more significant positive outcome of these elections is that they will provide the US Administration with the pretext to implement its strategy of pulling out."
Congratulations are due to the Iraqi people, and sustained support will shepherd the new Iraq to a better future. The story of Iraq continues to evolve, and at least this day there is hope.
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