Backgrounder on Iraq, February 2012

Backgrounder on Iraq, February 2012

Iraq’s security environment remains volatile after the formal end of U.S. combat operations on December 15, 2011. A fragile, sectarian-tinged government took months to form following the March 2010 elections, and without U.S. forces, the threat of renewed violence and human rights violations—including targeted attacks on religious minorities—persists.

Humanitarian and Displacement Crisis

Extremist and insurgent groups continue to attack civilians and security forces to undermine state authority. Over 2 million Iraqis are internally displaced, and another 2 million have fled to Syria and Jordan. Complex refugee-status adjudications and stricter U.S. visa processing have delayed resettlement for those who assisted coalition forces.

USCCB Pre-War Moral Concerns

Before the 2003 invasion, USCCB statements questioned the moral legitimacy of unilateral, preemptive military action in Iraq and argued it failed to meet just-war criteria. The Conference warned of uncontrollable negative consequences from invasion and occupation.

USCCB has outlined four pillars for a “responsible transition” in Iraq:

• Minimize further loss of life.
• Address the humanitarian and regional refugee crises.
• Promote political reconciliation and national dialogue.
• Engage international partners to stabilize security and governance.

The Conference places special emphasis on protecting Christians and other vulnerable minorities.

• October 2010: Bishops Hubbard and Wester welcomed the end of combat operations but pressed Secretary Clinton on continued U.S. obligations to protect human rights, support refugees, and secure minorities.
• October 2010: Cardinal George condemned the Syrian Catholic cathedral attack in Baghdad and urged President Obama to bolster civilian protection.
• USCCB Migration and Refugee Services and Catholic Relief Services have conducted fact-finding missions and persist in highlighting the plight of displaced Iraqi Christians.

USCCB calls on U.S. policymakers to:

1. Collaborate with Iraq’s government, the UN, and donors to secure transparent elections and political dialogue.
2. Sustain humanitarian and reconstruction assistance, with particular focus on vulnerable populations.
3. Support professionalization of Iraqi security forces committed to human rights.
4. Streamline refugee processing and expand resettlement for those at risk.
5. Uphold religious freedom by protecting Christians and other minorities from violence.
6. Strengthen civil society, local governance, and the judiciary to ensure accountability and long-term stability.

2012-02IraqBackgrounder-final.pdf