The UAE and Germany have stepped in where others have feared to tread with this initiative that focuses on reconstruction of the country reeling from sectarian conflict and remnants of a foreign occupation. The fund, to be monitored by the United Nations, will boost infrastructure projects and revive Iraq’s stuttering economy. More importantly, a friendly Arab country is involved, which will lift the clouds of suspicion that have hung over such schemes in the past. The US has been at the forefront of previous efforts but ordinary Iraqis and the government do not trust Washington because it is viewed as an occupying force despite withdrawing most of its troops after over a decade of war in the country
The UAE’s moderate role can boost confidence among Iraqis and counter the vicious propaganda of Daesh, who have succeeded in weaning away many people to their side. Abu Dhabi and Washington have already established a joint centre to counter Daesh’s violent message not only in the region but also globally, according to General John Allen, the US presidential envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter Daesh.
Speaking in Doha, General Allen said more centres are being planned across the world. The UAE and the US know that the fight against Daesh cannot be limited to a military offensive alone, but must be fought on other fronts as well. Immediate humanitarian aid will mitigate the sufferings of Iraq’s citizens; infrastructure development can begin after securing areas militarily. The new fund will help jumpstart projects and provide services like health, education and civic amenities. It is also expected to offer jobs to Iraqis who will not be drawn to Daesh and its regressive ideology.
Washington says the war against Daesh and its fringe elements will last a generation.
It is, therefore, seeking new partners and ideas to combat this dangerous doctrine of hate sweeping across the world from Iraq and Syria.
Politically, the US must work towards getting the Iraqi government of Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi on board. Though Abadi’s government may not admit it, the Iraqi army has indeed lost the will to fight as US Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said last month.
Sectarian reconciliation efforts must be stepped up for the force to fight as one unit under a single command. Coalition air forces have to work with Iraqi ground troops to coordinate campaigns and retake territory from Daesh. Another Ramadi should not be allowed to happen.
Reconstruction of the country with Arab and UAE help is a step in the right direction but can succeed only if Iraqis reconcile their differences and learn to fight together.
original source: http://www.khaleejtimes.com/kt-article-display-1.asp?xfile=data/editorial/2015/June/editorial_June9.xml§ion=editorial