Say “NO” To Iraqi Standing Visa Request

07/22/2007

Paul Munnis


Ambassador Crocker’s plea for a standing visa for Iraqis to enter the U.S. so that they can be assured of safe passage is an interesting plea but I oppose it.

I fear a scenario wherein the Iraqi holds a U.S. visa in his left hand while his right palm is being greased with American oil company money for him to sign away oil rights; then they go for the oil giveaway and skip town.

In other words it’s a set up for a sell out of the Iraqi people.

Far better is that the Iraqi politicians face the Iraqi people and just do the right thing by them. Fear of consequences is a great motivator to do the right thing.

Sorry – I just don’t see the case for allowing this scenario and it is one that is all too real and far too probable.

As for the Iraqi refugee living in Jordan and elsewhere, the Iraqi politicians need to be working to create a nation for them to go back to. A place where their skills and services are needed and valued. Giving them a visa to the U.S. is not the answer for either the Iraqi refugee or for the people who are currently staying in place and whom Crocker fears might become refugees if we don't give them a visa.

Sorry, the way to build an Iraqi nation is to build an Iraqi nation - not provide escape routes, back doors, and opportunities to disappear into the woodwork. Face the people and behave in the right way for the benefit of the Iraqi people. Only those who are sinning against the people of Iraq need to fear retribution.