UN Envoy Calls for Broader Discussions in Iraq, Challenges American Strategy

Lakhdar Brahimi, the United Nations special envoy to Iraq, has urged the new Iraqi government to engage in dialogue with Iraqis opposed to the American occupation, suggesting that the US approach is too reliant on force and not enough on subtlety and persuasion. Brahimi's remarks, made at a news conference in Baghdad, marked a significant departure from the US stance, which has emphasized a toughline approach to dealing with insurgents. Brahimi's criticism is not just limited to individual selections for the new government, but also on broader issues, including the role of American officials in shaping the new government.

Key Takeaways:

• Brahimi suggested that the US was pursuing a strategy in Iraq that relied too heavily on force and not enough on subtlety and persuasion, and called for a more inclusive approach that engages with Iraqis who oppose the occupation.
• Brahimi's criticism came as the new Iraqi government, led by Iyad Allawi, took shape, with the prime minister facing opposition from some members of the Iraqi parliament.
• Brahimi also hinted that he might have done things differently if he had been given a freer hand in setting up the new government, and suggested that UN authority was limited by American officials.
• The US has offered few details about its role in selecting the new Iraqi government, but a senior American official characterized the negotiations as "collaborative".
• Brahimi alluded to the suffering of the Iraqi people as a result of the American invasion and its chaotic aftermath, and expressed concern about the ability of the Iraqi government and the UN to set up a workable election system amidst ongoing violence.
• American officials have said that they expect the insurgency to intensify in the weeks leading up to the transfer of sovereignty, and possibly to continue at a high level for some time after that.

Statistics:

• The area of Falluja, a city in western Iraq that was the scene of heavy fighting in April, has been mostly peaceful since American commanders set up a security force consisting of former Republican Guard soldiers and anti-American insurgents.
• The city of Falluja is not under the direct control of the new Iraqi government, but rather is ruled by a local council.
• The transfer of sovereignty from the US to the new Iraqi government is scheduled to take place on June 30.
• Iraq is expected to hold democratic elections in January 2005.

Sources:

• (Source: The New York Times, July 22, 2004)
• (Source: Reuters, July 22, 2004)