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UN-Iraqi talks should be a stepping stone for the US
Editor
On March 7, discussions resumed after a one-year hiatus between the United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and Iraq’s Foreign Minister Naji Sabri. Mr Sabri described the talks as “a constructive and positive exchange of views” and Mr Annan's spokesman said they had made “a good start.”
This should be a stepping-stone towards a dialogue between the United States and Iraq as well.
It is not helpful that the US has dismissed dialogue out of hand. The nations have not held direct discussions since the cease-fire arrangement was imposed 11 years ago.
US policy has been guided by threats and ultimatums - resulting in a narrowing of options for all parties and catastrophe for the Iraqi people.
True leadership lies in accepting realities we may not like and accepting the challenge of engagement.
Instead of continuing a policy of intimidation and condemnation, the administration of President Bush should negotiate based on principles of fairness, justice and peace.
Valerie Jacobs
San Francisco
