Reuters: Iraqis say they like Obama, divided on his policies

[highplainsdem]

http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSL1889572420080720

Sun Jul 20, 2008 6:29am EDT

By Khaled al-Ansary and Mohammed Abbas

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is popular among Iraqis.

In two dozen interviews across the country, many told Reuters a black man would understand their plight.

Obama arrived in Baghdad on Sunday on only his second trip to Iraq. He wants to bolster his foreign policy credentials and counter accusations from Republican presidential rival John McCain that he has not seen conditions in Iraq for himself.

"I support Obama. I think he is the best for Iraq and for the world ... if McCain wins I will be devastated," said Mustafa Salah, an office worker in the southern city of Basra.

Hisham Fadhil, a doctor in northern Kirkuk added: "He is much better than others because he is black and black people were tyrannized in America. I think he will feel our suffering."

-snip-

Indeed, Iraqis are divided over Obama's plan to withdraw U.S. combat troops within 16 months if he wins office. Some say the policy is overdue while others are opposed because they feel Iraq's security forces are not ready.

-snip-

Kamiran Mohammed, from Kirkuk, said he visited the United States recently as part of a polling watchdog to study elections. Obama would be good for Iraq, not McCain, he said.

"When I was in the United States I found Democrats are more peaceful and avoid wars," Mohammed said.

-snip-

"The face of America was spoilt by the Republicans and Bush. A McCain win means Bush stays," said Zainab Riyad, a teacher.

-snip-

More at the link.

[jezebel]

1. the article says Obama has arrived in Iraq. Has any media reported this? nt

[Olney Blue]

2. The Iraqis appear more informed than some Americans!

[redstate_democrat]

3. Smart folks.

:D

[rndmprsn]

4. "When I was in the United States I found Democrats are more peaceful and avoid wars," Mohammed said.

amen to that!