Global Policy Forum

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The US Coalition is not the sole cause of Iraq 's ills. There is no doubt that Iraqi-led criminal violence and sectarian political leaders have caused grave damage to the country and its future. But those who started the war and occupation – particularly the US and the UK – are responsible for the false claims they made, the illegal war that they waged and the vast destruction they have wrought. They are also responsible for the chaotic and violent conditions they have largely provoked and the grave violations of international law which they have systematically committed. The Security Council, because of the mandate it has given the MNF, also shares responsibility for the debacle.

The road ahead is very difficult. Iraq will not easily recover and achieve stability. But there are clear steps that can begin a resolution of the conflict. The United Nations and the international community must end the complicity of silence and vigorously address the Iraq crisis. The Security Council must assume its responsibilities and consider alternatives for the future. The US Congress must heed and act on the wishes of the electorate. The following policy recommendations suggest a path forward:

• The international community should immediately acknowledge and address Iraq 's humanitarian crisis.

• The Security Council should end the MNF mandate at the earliest opportunity and plan for a stable transition in Iraq , respecting international law.

• The US Coalition must promptly withdraw all its forces from Iraq .

• Withdrawal must be governed by a clear and speedy timetable and it must be complete, with no residual forces or bases and with no conditions.

• A UN peacekeeping force could assist with the transition, by monitoring the ceasefire, strengthening local police forces and the judicial system, and organizing fully-credible elections.

• During any period they remain in Iraq , US Coalition forces should fully respect international law.

• US Coalition forces and the Iraqi government should speedily release all "security detainees" who have not been charged with a crime; an amnesty of others being held in connection with the post-invasion conflict should also be considered.

• Iraqis should engage in comprehensive and broadly-inclusive negotiations to arrive at a plan for security and peaceful government of the national territory. The United Nations could provide assistance for this process.

• All armed groups and militias must agree to a ceasefire and a disarmament process. Iraqi government forces should act with restraint and with full respect for the rule of law. As Coalition forces withdraw, irregular forces should turn in their weapons and disband, as part of the national peace and reconciliation plan.

• New elections should be held in Iraq after the withdrawal of occupation forces, based on international electoral standards and subject to international observers; a new (or revised) constitution would be a necessary part of the reconciliation plan.

• The international community should assist with reconstruction and rebuilding of Iraq 's infrastructure and badly-damaged cities, as well as the speedy resettlement (and guaranteed security) of those who have been displaced.

• No new oil laws and contracts should be adopted until peaceful, post-occupation conditions guarantee a full and democratic national debate about the future of Iraq 's most important natural resource.