Arab States must Integrate Iraq

Roula Khalaf, Financial Times | August 20, 2008

There is a trend among Sunni Arab states to revitalize diplomatic ties with Iraq. ++ The growing Shia influence backed by Iran may have alarmed them. ++ But instead of pressuring the US to ensure the Sunni's reinsertion into Iraqi politics, Arab officials now try to integrate Iraq's Shia government back into "the Arab fold." ++ Unfortunately, the efforts can not be successful if Saudi-Arabia will not participate in the engagement. ++ Nonetheless, supporting Iraq's Shia-led government could strengthen the country and enhance its stability.