Why are Iraqi Shiites leading the protests against their ‘own’ government?
Since Oct. 1, Iraq has been roiled by a series of massive demonstrations. The demonstrations are noteworthy not only for their size and persistence but also because of the identity of their main participants: Iraqi Shiites. Shiites, the largest and most powerful segment of Iraqi society, are taking to the streets in large numbers despite violence from security forces — who are working for a government that is dominated by Iraqi Shiites. So, why are Iraqi Shiites coming out so strongly against their “own” government?
The answer to this question lies in the expectations Shiites have had since the fall of the Saddam Hussein regime 16 years ago.… Seguir leyendo »