“These are three of the most important political figures in Iraq today. Their edicts and counsel go out to millions of Iraqis every Friday at the mosques, and to members of the national government and parliament throughout the week. In short, if there is to be reconciliation in Iraq it must be led by these men. In the foregoing statements they are acknowledging that it is their responsibility to lead this process. The Maliki government has not done it, and in any event cannot do it alone. Neither can the paralyzed parliament. But clearly the most authoritative word in Iraq comes from its
most respected institution, religion.”
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