It is greatly disappointing that Iraqis are engaged in an endless and long-running debate on a final choice of their nation's flag. Although to reach a consensus on the matter should not have been a difficult task, it is proving to be an impossible mission to accomplish. Recently, the Iraqi parliament took steps to adopt a new, albeit temporary, national flag. The slim parliament majority that approved it has sparked protests among some groups.

All nations treat their country's flag as a symbol of identity and character. Iraqis should not be an exception as the undertaking is simple when compared to the other more serious issues that Iraq is facing. Since the flag would represent an entire nation, the current controversy should be settled by allowing Iraqis to vote on their preference. Otherwise the continuing debate will only create further contention and division among Iraqis.