Iraq is bubbling in celebration and joy as a soccer team united a country that has been torn asunder for years-  first under Saddam’s mad regime and then under the sectarian war and bitter insurgency. 

 

Lets hope that this new national unity lasts.  Awesome job to the Lions of the Two Rivers Team!

From the AP here:

After the team’s victory in the prestigious 2007 Asian Cup, the Iraqi people seemed far ahead of their leaders in letting sectarian bygones be bygones and allowing ethnic atrocities to fade.

The Iraq team’s win dripped with symbolism, not least in the makeup of its front-line strikers: one Kurd, one Shiite, one Sunni.

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki was on the phone in seconds talking to the victors. The dour, hard-line Shiite leader announced only minutes into the game that each team member had been awarded $10,000.

“There is a big difference between The Lions of the Two Rivers who struggle to put a smile on the faces of their people and those who work in dark corners strewing death and sorrow in the paths of innocent people. We are proud of you. You deserve all our love and respect.”

The U.S. military command issued a message shortly afterward.

“Throughout this demanding competition, you represented Iraq with distinction and honor, inspiring all Iraqis by your unity, teamwork, dedication and athletic ability. We salute you and congratulate you on this tremendous achievement.”

Iraq will one day be at peace again, and strong national pride will go a very long way toward that goal.

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