Iraq refugees find no refuge in America

[NNN0LHI]

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion/317322_mcfeatters27.html

WASHINGTON -- Just about every American serving or working in Iraq knows Iraqis who have been loyal to the United States, have risked their lives for Americans and are in serious danger of being killed if they stay in Iraq.

Thousands of Iraqis have fled their country, trying to escape the escalating civil war between Sunnis and Shiites. Many of them have lost close relatives and have been threatened with rape, torture or death if they continue to work with Americans.

U.S. journalists are finding it increasingly difficult to interview Iraqis, terrified they will be targeted by death squads for even talking to Americans. Journalists must depend on Iraqi citizens to translate and to arrange interviews in hotel rooms or in secret locations. If found out, the translators and facilitators face torture or death. Yet, still they have continued to help, sometimes because of the money, but just as frequently because they are grateful to the United States.

Many of the Iraqis who welcomed U.S. soldiers after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein live in hiding because they can't support themselves and can't get out of the country. Many are terrified of being betrayed by neighbors. If they have Sunni names, they are frightened of Shiites. If they have Shiite names, they are afraid of Sunnis.

Last month, the United States admitted one immigrant from Iraq.

[butterfly77]

1. This will be the next controversy...

when the american people start realizing that america will be admitting Iraqis to the country.