wfn.org | AFSC Statement: US Military Action in Northern Iraq

[RByler@afsc.org]

AFSC Statement on US military action in Northern Iraq
September 3, 1996

The American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) expresses its deep concern
over the US unilateral military action against Iraq following Baghdad's
attack on Arbil.  AFSC is also deeply concerned that this crisis has
resulted in the suspension of the sale of the oil that would have enabled
Iraq to purchase needed humanitarian supplies for its population.  Once
again, innocent people suffer for the actions of governments.

The US cruise missiles were launched in the face of ongoing diplomatic
efforts at resolution of the fighting in northern Iraq. Not only did the US
intervene militarily, but it has imposed unilaterally new conditions on the
government of Iraq, extending the "no-fly zone" and banning the movement of
Iraqi troops in northern Iraq.  The continuing interference in the
sovereignty of  Iraq is likely to provoke continuing confrontations. 

The issue of Kurdish nationalism and self-determination is an historic and
complex one, and its resolution would involve many countries in the region.
There is no chance that a military solution can be imposed.  Further, the US
itself has contributed much to the destabilization of the region through the
long-term covert intelligence and overt diplomatic activity among the Kurds. 

Military action is not the solution to the Iraq question. AFSC calls on the
US government and its allies to refrain from any further military action,
but instead to work through the UN to achieve a peaceful resolution that
will reduce tensions and allow the oil sale to move forward and the people
of Iraq to be fed.

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The American Friends Service Committee  is a Quaker organization which
includes people of various faiths who are committed to social justice,
peace, and humanitarian service.  Its work is based on the Quaker belief in
the worth of every person and faith in the power of love to overcome
violence and injustice.

For more information, contact Ron Byler, AFSC Director of Media Relations,
at 215/241-7060.

J.Ron Byler
Director of Media Relations
American Friends Service Committee
PH: 215/241-7060
FAX: 215/241-7275
E-MAIL: RByler@afsc.org
http://www.afsc.org