Oh boy.
Rumors of coup in Iraq prompt Shiite warnings
A Shiite Muslim political leader said Friday that rumors were circulating of an impending coup attempt against the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and warned that "we will not allow it."
For a rumor, it sure is specific. The supposed perpetrators even have a name:
Hadi al-Amiri, a member of parliament from Iraq's most powerful political party, said in a speech in the holy city of Najaf that "some tongues" were talking about toppling al-Maliki's Shiite-led government and replacing it with a "national salvation government, which we call a military coup government."
OK, hold everything.
This last quote sounds a awful alot like someone actually threatening a coup and sending a message that it can be done, to the Maliki government.
But who can pull off a coup in Iraq? A second's thought should convince anyone with half a brian that a political coup in Iraq is impossible unless it is backed by the US.
Maybe when the American likudniks (a group that unfortunately contains many Democrats), meant it when they said a speech criticizing Israel was unacceptable.
Or maybe he's just becoming too much liability.
If I'm reading the events correctly, it seems the so called "moderate" Arab governments (Jordan, Saudi, Egypt) have struck some kind of deal with Bush against the Shiites. So, we should hear alot about the "Shiite crescent" soon, as I predict, it will be all about Iran, Iran, Iran. I wonder if they are "in the bag" as far as the next neocon invasion? (Iran)
So is it possible, that part of the deal is to get rid that thorn-in-the-side first-ever shiite government in Iraq? I noticed Saudi Arabians never even came close to criticizing the Sunni insurgency against the US occupation in Iraq, but they were quick to wag fingers against Hezbollah who is also fighting a foreign army.
Reuter's headline says it best:
Saudi clerics torn over hatred for Israel,Hizbollah