Scottish Sunday: Inside Iraq

Introduction

On his visits to Iraq, John Pilger found a devastated country where sanctions imposed after the Gulf war have brought misery and death to more than a million. The last thing these people need, he argues, is more war.

The Devastating Impact of Sanctions

Wherever you go in Iraq's southern city of Basra, there is dust. It rolls down the long roads that are the desert's fingers. It gets in your eyes and nose and throat; it swirls in markets and school playgrounds, consuming children kicking a plastic ball; and it carries, according to Dr Jawad Al-Ali, 'the seeds of our death'.

Dr Al-Ali, a cancer specialist, explains the alarming increase in cancer mortality in the region since the Gulf war. With suspected contamination from depleted uranium used by the Americans and British during the war, Basra and its inhabitants are now facing a crisis where nearly half the population could develop cancer within the next five years.

The devastating impact of sanctions has also led to a severe shortage of medical supplies and treatment. Patients, including children with conditions like leukaemia, are unable to receive consistent or adequate care due to a lack of essential drugs and equipment.

The Denial and Manipulation of Information

The denial of the connection between the use of depleted uranium and the deformities seen in Iraqi children is a significant issue. Despite an overwhelming amount of evidence, some officials in the West continue to dispute the link.

Additionally, the UN Sanctions Committee has vetoed or delayed contracts for vital medical equipment and supplies, exacerbating the suffering of the Iraqi people. The impact of these actions has been devastating, leading to the loss of thousands of lives.

A Call for Change

In the face of this ongoing humanitarian crisis, voices like John Pilger and Denis Halliday have called for a re-evaluation of the sanctions policy. Halliday, a former UN official, resigned out of protest against the devastating impact of the embargo on the Iraqi population.

It is necessary to challenge the decisions made by the United States and Britain, which have resulted in the use of depleted uranium and the denial of crucial medical care to affected individuals. The international community must come together to address the urgent needs of the Iraqi people and end the suffering caused by sanctions.

The Impact of the Main Article

The Horrors of War and the Need for Change

John Pilger's article sheds light on the devastating consequences of war and the aftermath of sanctions in Iraq. The accounts of cancer patients, doctors, and former UN officials highlight the urgent need for change in the approach towards international conflicts and their aftermath.

The Importance of Humanitarian Aid and Assistance

While political motives and agendas often overshadow the humanitarian crisis faced by the Iraqi people, it is essential to recognize the urgent need for medical supplies, treatment, and other crucial resources. The denial or delay of aid only prolongs the suffering of innocent civilians.

The Responsibility of World Powers

The actions and decisions made by powerful countries like the United States and Britain have far-reaching consequences. The use of depleted uranium, the imposition of sanctions, and the denial of medical care reveal a disregard for human life and a failure to take responsibility for the repercussions of military actions.

Ending the Cycle of Violence

The situation in Iraq serves as a stark reminder of the cycle of violence perpetuated by war and its devastating effects on civilian populations. It is crucial to explore diplomatic solutions and prioritize the well-being of the affected communities to break this cycle and build a more peaceful future.

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