Skip to content

Continuing Quote by David Petraeus

“The Sunni Arabs began to realize that they had made a huge mistake by not voting in the election of 2005 and by not being part of the new Iraq. They had reasons for this: They were effected by the disestablishment of the military and by de-Baathification (the dismantling of Saddam Hussein's party)…” quote by David Petraeus
Download Open image
“The Sunni Arabs began to realize that they had made a huge mistake by not voting in the election of 2005 and by not being part of the new Iraq. They had reasons for this: They were effected by the disestablishment of the military and by de-Baathification (the dismantling of Saddam Hussein's party) in winter 2007-2007. They increasingly recognized that their future lay in being part of the solution rather than a continuing part of the problem.”

David Petraeus

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on Iraq Policy, 2008

The Sunni Arabs realized political participation was essential after marginalization, prompting a shift toward constructive involvement.

In simple terms: Sunni Arabs saw voting as key to influence.

Key Takeaway

Engage politically to shape outcomes.

Themes

politics identity participation reconciliation

Mood

reflective determined

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • community meetings
  • policy advocacy
  • peacebuilding

Key Concepts

democracy social cohesion conflict resolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can marginalized groups rebuild trust in political systems?
  • What steps foster inclusive governance?
A Different Perspective

Limited by ongoing sectarian tensions and security concerns.

3.6 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by David Petraeus

Explore all 61 David Petraeus quotes

More Continuing quotes

Browse all 782 Continuing quotes