I believe that the Iraqis have an opportunity now, without…
“I believe that the Iraqis have an opportunity now, without Saddam Hussein there, to build the first multiconfessional Arab democracy in the Middle East. And that will make for a different kind of Middle East. And these things take time. History has a long arc, not a short one. And there are going to be ups and downs, and it is going to take patience by the United States and by Iraq's neighbors to help the Iraqis to do that. But if they succeed, it'll transform the Middle East, and that's worth doing.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She envisions a post‑Saddam Iraq becoming a pluralistic democracy, acknowledging the long, uneven process and the need for regional patience.
In simple terms: Iraq could become a multi‑faith democracy, but it will take time and support.
Key Takeaway
Support democratic development in Iraq.
Themes
democracy
regional stability
patience
Mood
hopeful
cautious
Type
political
strategic
When to use this quote
- post‑conflict reconstruction
- regional diplomacy
- civil society development
Key Concepts
state‑building
pluralism
foreign policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can the US balance involvement and sovereignty?
- What safeguards prevent backsliding?
A Different Perspective
Challenges include sectarian divisions and external interference.