Iraq has yet to attain a level of peace and stability that would allow the nation to move forward. The fact that violence is still part and parcel of the everyday reality makes it impossible for the country to move successfully towards nation-building. Until and unless stability is ensured, Iraq will continue to suffer from bloodshed.
A politician’s convoy was targeted recently in the northern city of Kirkuk. While the politician has escaped unharmed, the explosives that were detonated killed at least 12 people. Last August, a series of attacks had killed more than 90 people in what was considered to be one of the deadliest months in Iraq. Insurgents have always targeted security forces, politicians and public figures, according to officials. Yet, the vast majority of those being killed and injured are innocent civilians who happen to be in a certain area when an explosive goes off.
The continuation, therefore, of all this violence indicates that peace remains an elusive goal. If anything, these bombings are reflective of an ongoing hostility between various sects and groups. And this has been the costliest for the people of Iraq. It is necessary that all groups — regardless of their religious, ethnic or political affiliation — come together in order for Iraq to start nation-building on a sound basis. Otherwise, bloodshed will keep the country endlessly torn asunder.
