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October 24, 2008

Iraqis Protest Draft of Troop Agreement
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In Iraq, protests continue against the proposed security pact that would
allow US forces to stay in Iraq for at least three more years. On
Thursday, lawmakers with the Sadr bloc held a sit-in against the current
proposals.

Fawzi Akram: “It is a clear message to the Iraqi government, US
government, the occupation and to all the honest and patriotic people
who work for the sake of Iraq’s unity, land, people, flag and
sovereignty, those who work for what is right and just, to join us and
make Iraq’s sovereignty and national interest above all.”

The draft calls for a full US withdrawal by 2012, but leaves open the
possibility of a later date. US soldiers would also retain immunity from
prosecution for all actions except those committed “off-duty” and not in
combat. Critics have dismissed the provision, because US troops seldom
leave their bases in Iraq unless on authorized missions.



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