Reply #8: More: Row brews over planned Iraqi amnesty [View All]

http://www.upi.com/SecurityTerrorism/view.php?StoryID=20060615-041543-5307r

Row brews over planned Iraqi amnesty

WASHINGTON, June 15 (UPI) -- A row is brewing after the new Iraqi government suggested that insurgents who had attacked U.S. troops might get amnesty as part of a reconciliation plan.

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki told reporters in Iraq Wednesday that he was developing a reconciliation plan that could include an amnesty for those "who weren't involved in the shedding of Iraqi blood."

National reconciliation between the minority Sunni Muslims -- who effectively ruled the country under Saddam Hussein and make up the bulk of the insurgents -- and their majority Shiite neighbors is seen by many as essential if the country is to survive.

But Democrats moved quickly Thursday to condemn the idea, and although administration officials cautioned that the plan was not finalized, it seems that such an amnesty would be a tough sell with the American public.

"It is shocking that (Maliki) is reportedly considering granting amnesty to insurgents who have killed U.S. troops," said Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid of Nevada in a statement, "The mere idea that this proposal may go forward is an insult to the brave men and women who have died in the name of Iraqi freedom."