NYT: Iraq Power Shift Widens a Gulf Between Sects

[Pirate Smile]

BAGHDAD, Iraq, Feb. 17 —
-snip-
Of all of the changes that have swept Iraqi society since the American invasion almost three years ago, one of the quieter ones, yet also one of the most profound, has been the increased identification with one's own sect. In the poisonous new mix of violence, sectarian politics and lawlessness, families are turning inward to protect themselves.

"Since the state was dismantled in Iraq, institutions have disappeared and people have withdrawn into their clans and tribes," Ayad Allawi, the former prime minister, said in a recent interview.

-snip-
As a result, tribal ties now bind more firmly. Social life has withdrawn from clubs to homes. Mixed marriages are more carefully considered. "For a parent, the first question now is going to be: Sunni or Shiite?" said Shatha al-Quraishi, an Iraqi lawyer who specializes in family law. "People are starting to talk about it. I can feel it. I can touch that something has changed."

At the same time, pent-up feelings that for years were kept hidden under Saddam Hussein's government are now bursting into full view, in some cases dividing families. Shiite husbands jailed under Mr. Hussein turn their anger on their Sunni wives. Children come home asking if they are Sunni or Shiite.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/02/18/international/middleeast/18sectarian.html?hp&ex=1140238800&en=7feebb6066fcecfa&ei=5094&partner=homepage

[henslee]

1. These symptoms seem like a logical progression after the elimination

of an oppressive regime. Now if only they can identify w/ their sects/roots less violently.