Al-jazeera: Mass Protests in Basra Over Increased Violence

Well, in a story that could cut either way, there have been mass rallies in Basra, Iraq, over increased levels of violence since the British forces withdrew. The majority of the protestors were Shia, men, and apparently jobless.

Residents are becoming increasingly alarmed about security, saying that killings, kidnappings and other crimes have increased significantly since British forces turned over responsibility for the city at the end of last year. [Al-jazeera (English)]

Is this an argument for or against continued US involvement?

Basra is, by the way, where scores of uncovered Iraqi women have been killed because hair leads men sexually astray, and so, you know, what are you gonna do? Jihad against Pantene Pro-V! Anyway...

Al-jazeera (English):

Thousands of people took to the streets in southern Basra, protesting against deteriorating security in a city where Iraqi forces assumed responsibility for safety last December.

A long line of marchers - estimated to be as many as 5,000 people - demonstrated near the Basra police command headquarters on Saturday, demanding that Major General Abdul-Jalil Khalaf, the police chief and Lietenant General Mohan al-Fireji, the commander of joint military-police operation, resign.

Many carried banners, decrying the killing of women, workers, academics and scientists.

Of course there's a lot of bullshit surrounding this situation. But here's a salient fact:

Different Shia groups have been wrestling for control of Basra, Iraq's second-largest city and the urban centre of an oil-rich region.

So, wait, why are they really protesting and sowing discontent? Increased violence (due to inadequate training?), yes. But oh, right, also age-old lust for wealth and power in a land full of it. Is any further US military involvement going to solve that? No. The longer we stay (and stay politically involved) the more an unnatural balance of power is entrenched and the bloodier the recalibration of power will be.

Our only involvement (and this will be controversial) should be economic. People who are saving up to buy an iPod don't blow themselves up.

As with every Iraq story, I just advise everyone to keep in mind the sanctions upheld during Clinton's presidency that reportedly killed half a million Iraqis. Because refrigerators are dual-use. They store vaccines for kids and DEADLY BIOTOXINS! And the 1998 bombings, coincidentally timed. Etc. So. I mean. Look at all the bloody hands! Look at 'em!