08 December, 2006

Where have all the Iraqis gone?

Many people in the US I talk to are shocked to hear that there are so many Iraqis living in Syria (and other surrounding countries) after fleeing the violence in their country. Some were surprised people were leaving, because Iraq seems like such a great place to raise a family these days. Some were surprised to hear of the troubles many of these refugees face in the countries they flee to. My neighborhood had many Iraqis living there. I heard complaints from many in Damascus that some prices had risen in response to the influx.

This article from the December 8 New York Times outlines the population shift out of Iraq. Be sure to look at the accompanying graphic for the statistics.

At the rate we're going, George, there won't be any Iraqis left to bring democracy to.

Again, click on the post header to link there.

Salaam.

2 comments:

Namuq said...

Thanks for pointing out the NY Times article allowing me to read some of your insightful comments concerning Iraqi people. I am still a neophyte when it comes to understanding the Middle East so any little bit I learn helps.

I hope you are finding your routine.

Regards, Brian

Namuq said...

Thanks for pointing out the NY Times article and allowing me to read some of your insightful comments. It is obvious that removing Saddam from power has come at a huge cost to Iraqi people. Living in a democractic society, it is easy for me to think that the price was worth it but I am sure if I was one of the unfortunate displaced, my perspective would be quite different.
I sure hope peace and stability returns to Iraq and the entire Middle East someday soon. However, I will not be surprised if it never occurs in my lifetime. That is indeed sad....