Kudos on a great job. What you have done with your blog is nothing short of amazing. More power to you and I hope you keep the blog running. The photos have turned your blog into still more powerful medium (if that is at all possible!)
I also hope that you, your friends, your family and your countrymen are safe from the aftermath of the war. I pray for peace in the region.
Thu 26-Jun-2003 20:40 Posted by:KM
Let me add my thanks to all the others. You are truly a "man of your time", as someone noted. Please be assured that many of us here can hold two opposing ideas in their minds at the same time, that we can loathe some of the consequences of war, yet see the justness of the purpose. I find it ironic that some people use this forum to decry the "Bush and Blair" war, when were it not for such, this blog would surely have landed you in an electric basement by now.
Blog on!
Thu 26-Jun-2003 20:56 Posted by:Howard from Michigan (USA)
I like G's blog better than yours, but I'm a fan of both, and if you both put out tip jars, so that you could devote more time to blogging, and less to earning an income, I'm sure many people (including me) would donate some $$$ to hear more from the two of you. Please look into it.
Thu 26-Jun-2003 21:15 Posted by:Tom
it was really fuking shit photos....just shit
Thu 26-Jun-2003 21:21 Posted by:ryan
Dear Salam -
Thank you so much for these pics, your blog & links.
We get very little info here on how the Iraqi people are doing.
I was against the invasion but I have high hopes for the Iraqi
people in spite of what's happening. I'm praying for Iraq daily.
Your blog is very important to us.
~Keep Hope Alive~
Ok, like Howard from Michigan said, were it not for this war, our friends Salam, G and so many others could be under someone´s fat boot right now. I just can´t figure out why - could someone please clear that point for me - I can´t understand why they have to tell so many lies at the White House to justify this war, being its reasons sooo noble. I also think - just my oppinion - that 5.000 civilian lifes is a little too bit of a heavy wage to be paid - maybe we could achieve the same with less losses, by other means rather than "shock and awe".
Salam,
Thanks so much for your writing and photos. I have followed your blog since early March and was very worried about your well-being during the blackout. You are witty and articulate, and your accounts of street life are riveting. You have given us an insider's look at what is going on. I am following your career at The Guardian as well. Keep up the good work!
Jackie
Thu 26-Jun-2003 23:17 Posted by:Jackie in Texas
Salam,
I just want to let you know how much I appreciate your blog. I have been reading your accounts just prior to the start of the war, and your input really helps me understand the reality of what you and fellow Iraqi's are going through. Your words express the emotions that people are feeling. The media here in the US isn't even touching on what is still going on over there. I wish more people would read your blog and realize that the war is still going on, and lives are still be taken. I enjoy what you are doing, and I always look forward to pulling up your webpage and reading what you have wrote. Thanks for your words and descriptions. I hope you and your family will be safe and make it through all of this.
Luana
Salam,
You are doing great work, keep it up, keep the world informed of the good and the bad. Iraq needs people like you at present. Just know that there are lots of people around the world praying, to our God anyway that you and your family and friends remain safe in this trying time.
peace,
cheers
grubber
A remarkable achievement -- your civility and candor illuminate. Thank you.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 01:11 Posted by:bidept
I' m a 50 something grandma,whos been reading you since before the war started. You are a voice in the wilderness,all the more captivating for its aloneness.My thoughts are with you daily and my hope is that your country and peoples will sort thur this mess we have helped to create,and find peace and prosperity.Please continue to let the world peek in,we have few people willing to be so fair in their reporting and relating of events
Be safe Nana
Fri 27-Jun-2003 02:45 Posted by:nana
Well, they've all said it all haven't they? Like many other of your admirers, I too was really worried when you went off-line, because, although we DON'T in any true sense of the word, we all feel that we know you, are "attached' to you in some way.
I have to disagree with Howard whatsisname, however. What right do the Brits and Americans have to decide who lives or dies? And worse, despite the precision bombing argument, it's indiscriminate! Rumsfeld called the killers of the six British soldiers a "death squad" and a British officer spoke of "unprovoked murder". But weren't OUR "death squads", in all their guises, carrying out "unprovoked murders" when their bombs and missiles and shells rained down on Iraq? Sorry, but there's no such thing as a "humanitarian" war. Lindsey Hilsum on Channel 4 News said "This is a truly terrible war" the night before the famous, and staged, statue came down. I have to agree with her. Alkthough you, Salam, said that you would have been stuck with Saddam & his sons till the end of time without the "intervention/conflict" you too, were not into throwing flowers as the missiles rained down, so I'm pretty sure that you get my point. May you and all who you love and hold dear, when it comes, live in peace forever. I discovered you in The Gusrdian just before the military action began, so naturally, I'm reading your column their too. Take care!
P.S. I couldn't get onto G's blog when you told us to "go read" it, but I'm sure it couldn't possibly be better than yours!
Fri 27-Jun-2003 02:57 Posted by:sue wood
Salam, I started readind your blog a couple of weeks before things started getting ugly in Baghdad. was quite worried about you during that period of time when you were unable to post. I am glad that you are alive and well and able to once again post your personal first-hand views of what is currently happenining in Iraq, in a way that no news story ever could.
I really think that your posts have ehanced my understanding of the whole situation. Your photos, especially of your trip south with Raed, really did bring a new level of understanding to the whole situation in Iraq.
Thank you very much for taking the effort.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 03:00 Posted by:John from Toronto, Canada
i am always glad to see your posts and know frist hand what is really going on. somethings just never hit the news or if they do its painted over. your blog has been a boon to us all. telling it like it is. thanks and keep up the good work.
also know as a blogger i am sure when you began your journey the last thought on your mind was being a window to the world. i for one am greatful you stuck it out and are continuing to do so. you are by far my favorite blogger. ))
stay safe
from crissy in alaska
My daughter first told me about your blog-site. I have been a faithful reader for months. We worried for your well-being and that of your family and friends.. We still do. We hope and pray that all persons involved in the changes going on in your country remain safe...and that only good things come out of this historic moment. Pax, Mary
Dear Salam -
Those of us (thousands?) who found your blog are grateful for your courage and anger. We have had a fuller sense of what was happening .
The media, for all the personal risks they took with yard-by-yard reportage of the on-the-ground advance of the US/Brit military and the occupation, were looking through the wrong end of the telescope. Navel-gazing. Their war was about the troops, not perception of the impact on the invaded country, on the Iraqis and the Iraq leadership, and on the attitude toward the 'liberators.'
Perhaps if the government's had read you, they'd have had more info for their planning which is so clearly off the wall.
The only thing I can add that doesn't seem repetitious [except that you have somany fans I haven't read *every* message!] is that I hope you continue to blog, and, most important, that you hang on to your valuable point of view. Honest, 3-dimensional, right "There".
Keep your head down, friend (you sure feel like one), your eyes open, and your informed observations coming.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 05:36 Posted by:Michelle
Thank you, Salam, for your blog. I check in regularly to read your latest postings, and I wish only the best for you, your family, and your country. Keep writing - we Americans need your reports - voices like yours are not heard in our media.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 05:55 Posted by:diane
I think you are so very cool. Keep up your good work, and please know I am your loyal fan.
Salam you are a natural, you bring to light a perspective that neither the press or the ocupier could bring to this sad national tragedy of our times. I look forward to your blog updates as they are a great window and snapshot of what is hapening in Iraq today and what might happen to another powerless country tomorrow.
I personally think that the right word is better than a thousand pictures but that is just me.
Good luck to you and your countrymen and women.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 06:15 Posted by:Raad
Thank you for your blog and now this new photo page! I read your blog because it is the only way to find out from an Iraqi, in Iraq, what is going on. The news just cannot report in the same way you do. I think you are doing a good thing for all concerned.
you're a jaban (glad that you have acknowledged yourself) and amil al amrikan.
nothing but a stooge. stooge did you hear. nyyaah!!
all thru' your blog you sing hosannas to american occupation and condemn sad(ist)am(n). well, saddamn be damned, what infuriates me is your wilful oversight of american collusion in the rape of iraq.
it was US which always has sided with tyrants and oppressors; which aided saddamn in his horrific adventures.
if you are half as honest as you pretend, you would certainly read chomsky, pilger and fisk. and why not add a couple of useful links like counterpunch and znet? (not that you hain't but who knows. cia folks keep off that. and you will sertainly delete my unkind comments)
US of A is the biggest example of mindcontrol and 1984 in reality. recently billgates was in news for speaking at a homeland security conference where he said something to this effect: 'surveillance is good for privacy'. that is doublespeak and doublethink for you.
stooge and a US puppy.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 11:53 Posted by:antisalam
Salam should get a Pulitzer for his reporting!
Fri 27-Jun-2003 14:56 Posted by:Jonathan
Keep up the good work Salam. We get pretty balanced media coverage here in Ireland but every time you post you throw up new issues we don't hear about in the press.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 14:58 Posted by:Stephen, Dublin
Dear Salam,
I would like to thank you for the accurate reports from Iraq and the Iraqi people. Here in the United States, just about everyone opposes war and the war with Iraq (including me, and I support the Republican Party ) May you be safe in these times of evil and violence.
It's nice to have comments from someone who is not as biased as the media. I have read every blog you have posted from day one, and I am proud to say that your writing is far more accurate than what is reported in the news.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 15:50 Posted by:Jeremy, US KingJeremy4@aol.com
Dear Salam,
Many, no make that most people here in America wish for you and your fellow Iraqi citizens a peaceful and prosperous future. I know that your water & sewage problem can be solved - but not with guns and bombs in the faces of engineers. I know your country can be the gem of the Mid East but someone somewhere is fueling unrest.
Keep safe Salam and know that our prayers and wishes are with you.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 15:50 Posted by:Terry S TSouza7649@aol.com
can't wait for your book deal, the eventual movie adaptation, and requisite publicity tour! please stay safe enough to make it happen.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 16:05 Posted by:chuck in nyc
"Here in the United States, just about everyone opposes war and the war with Iraq."
That's funny. It got something like 68% support in the polls.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 16:40 Posted by:DanS
Dont believe the support polls here in America. that 68% is bullshit. The government controls those polls and they can make that any number that they choose. The American public is extremely opposed to this war. All feel that G.W. Bush should be impeached. He lied and conspired to make this war happen so that he could gain control over the Iraqi oil fields. He needs to be imeached and thrown in prison.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 17:08 Posted by:J'son from Miami Fl
Salam and Shalom to you and yours. Take care, be safe, and keep up the good work, it is most certainly appreciated.
Love the insight and sense of humor you exhibit. A true uncensored source of information. Some of the negative comments from the letter file are truly weird. Perhaps they overlook the fact that the arab neighbors who are in control of their assets have nice little monthly deposits to their bank accounts. Most countries the US has helped in the past are now able to function on their own and in most cases the US is no longer there except for security. I look forward to the day YOU get your first installment so PAX TV becomes a reality! By the way, I have a nephew flying around out in the western desert rooting out bad guys so normal folks can travel to Syria & Jordan without fear. Look forward to your next installments.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 17:39 Posted by:rbarnard
Hi Salam -
Thanks for what you've been doing. It's incredibly helpful in attempting to understanding what's going on to read you. Pretty impressive on your part to be entertaining as well as so informative under the circumstances. Thanks again. Remember: "We're stuck in time, surrounded by evil and low on gas".
Mike (Venice, California)
Fri 27-Jun-2003 19:01 Posted by:Mike
Salam,
I hope everything comes together for Iraq. Are the people there paying attention to the protests that are going on in Iran? Iraqis have a right to be angry and wish for US soldiers to leave but they had better think twice before wishing for theo crat thugs ruling the streets. I honestly believe that everyone in america (pro or anti war) hopes that iraq can succeed.
PS. maybe you could hook me up with some of that fine iraqi beer i've been hearing about? Some of us beer fans would pay top dinar for the good stuff!
Salam, I have been reading your blog for some time now. I have the utmost respect for you and what you are doing. You bring light to a situation that is most often shrouded in a government and media enduced cloak. I feel that your blog is the best resource to recieve honest views of what has been happening in Iraq. I was worried about you during the blackout and I am happy to see that you are healthy and posting again. I wish you and your family the best in these troubled times. BTW, when I read that you purchased a Deftones cd it just made my day.
J'son in Miami FL writes: "The American public is extremely opposed to this war. All feel that G.W. Bush should be impeached." Gee, J'son, you forgot to ask me and about 180 million of my closest friends what we think. Ah well, such is life. Best wishes to you and your family, Salam.
Fri 27-Jun-2003 20:16 Posted by:Lynne in Ohio
I read your entries every possible day and want to thank you for offering this very real account of war and life in a very changing world. We were so very worried when you hadn't written for days, but are so relieved you are ok. Please take care, be safe. We are praying for peace and hoping for the best until then. Keep writing and telling it like it really is.
Salam,
Thanks for your hard work and for offering a view into Iraq to us Yankees. My only hope is that this occupation does not whitewash Iraqi culture and we see America Jr. 15 years from now.
Sat 28-Jun-2003 05:58 Posted by:Felicia in Mississippi
Lynne in Ohio must have alot of friends if she has 180 million friends period, let alone 180 million CLOSE friends. Also, as 180 million people constitutes much more than 50 percent of the people I would have to say that she is wrong. Salam, thank you for helping us to gain a better understanding of what is really going on in Iraq.
Sat 28-Jun-2003 06:09 Posted by:Addam in California
Ha Ha This is great!
Beautiful pictures. The brilliant sunlight and your cameramanship bring out the great colors you guys have there.
If you ever want to know how miserably hot you are there this summer, I have a weather pixie on my blog. http://news4u.alturl.com/ It tells a recent temp in Azweh, Iran. No stations in Iraq are reporting (still as of 2 days ago.) weatherunderground.com confirmed that as well (they have had forecasts for Baghdad, but no current reporting . I know there are stations in Iran that are closer to you, but from what I saw at WU their temps were much too low. They must be in the mountains. Azweh seems to have about the same temps you guys have forecast for a day at WU or nearly so.
BTW, people, if the temperatures on the Pixie seem to show a nice warm summer's afternoon, it's probably the middle of the night in Baghdad. It's that hot.
Sat 28-Jun-2003 07:10 Posted by:Brett Starr nourbtwtmi2@aol.com
Assalamualaimkum, Thank you for giving us hope. In Malaysia we see the negative things being told on the arab media (and translated here) on the U.S., and we hear the creative news from CNN. Its heartwarming to get the views of someone in Baghdad. I was very worried about you when the blog didn't get updated during the worst of the attacks. I would check it at least 2 times a day. If you or anyone else wants an e-friend from Malaysia (an American working and living in Malaysia) feel free to write. I would love to get to know you better, though I know you are busy with things there. My work is in setting up Islamic Insurance companies and other actuarial (mathematic) work if theres anything I can do. wassalam.
What the rest have said. I don't know you, but I care for you; I've followed both you and the new york times with equal attention. Put out a tip jar if you can--I'd like to see you and G(he's quite talented) with as good a camera as can be found.
Yo Salam, wusup man? Though I'm an American and support my country's operations in Iraq, I think both your blog and photo log are pretty cool. A lot of people who commented on this site ask how they can send you money. Is there a way you can send a wish list to your contacts at The Guardian? Then The Guardian can set up a fund to which people can contribute, and the money can be used to buy the stuff on your list. Next time you mingle with Western journalists, someone from The Guardian can give you your care package (or split it up in multiple deliveries to reduce conspicuity).
Mon 30-Jun-2003 18:55 Posted by:Jorge in New Mexico
That house could be anywhere in LA. Love the scenes from your country. Seems like the only people who are trustworthy with the news are the ones who are living it. CNN got it all wrong about a couple of US Marines and how they died. CNN made them out to be heros. Turned out they were in my brother's unit and they died of their own stupidity. Drowned while trying to swim a canal in their chem suits (CNN said they drove their Humvee into the canal). Keep up the reports, please.
Mon 30-Jun-2003 19:02 Posted by:Crickett in LA qwiksilver@yahoo.com
Thank you Salam for all the effort you have put in. Many people are reading your comments and trust you. Wishing you and your family as good luck as possible.
Sincerely, Annabelle from Vancouver, Canada
Mon 30-Jun-2003 19:58 Posted by:Annabelle Edge
Salam - Whether you are for the war or not, one is mesmorized by your postings and fascinating musings. As an American I cannot even begin to understand the emotional impact of the images you see on a daily basis.
My hope is that the overthrow of Saddam Hussein will begin a slow if not painful democratization of Iraq that will allow future Iraqi generations to worship, educate, transact business and elect leaders without torturous intimidation and oppression of the past. I also know that these words are little solace to someone who is directly in the line of fire.
Thank you for putting a real face on the struggle for civility and humanity within Iraq.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the Iraqi people. Gavin
Mon 30-Jun-2003 20:30 Posted by:Gavin in Oregon
Stumbled on to your rants and writing. Very good and real.
You are no different than me.
Please keep posting but keep it honest.
you twisted phuck
Tue 1-Jul-2003 00:47 Posted by:My comments
Good Site Salam and I am glad you survived the bombings. I have mixed emotions about the war. If we were really in Iraq to liberate the people, I am all for that. Something inside me says that our objectives are a little more sinister than that. Hopefully Iraqis will have a better life since what has happened cannot be undone. I don't think the US puppet government that will be installed will be any where near as bad as Saddam, and I pray it will be a government that the Iraqi people want as well. Good luck to you and all of the Iraqi people.
Thanks for the great photos and also for your fascinating blog. I've learned much more about what is really going on in Iraq from reading your writings than from all the mainstream media sources and government spokespeople, who for some reason seem to be completely unconnected with reality. Please keep up the great service you are doing for everybody who cares about truth and democracy.
Tue 1-Jul-2003 19:46 Posted by:Cassandra
I have followed your story since the beginning of the war. I hope for your safety and peace. I am sorry that I am a resident in a country that has gone from a member of the international community to policeman of the world to world bully. God or Allah or whoever's in charge, please save us all. 0)
Why? While reading the posts here I see average, typical individuals from around the world wishing you and all Iraqis a much better future than the past. Some even apologize, offer condolences, and regrets for the lost of Iraqi lives during the recent war. Why is it that this mutual exchange of goodwill toward each other does not happen between some of the worlds governments and other political entities? Why is it that indiviually and personally more of us get along among ourselves better, much better, than some of our so-called government leaders?
How? SalamPax, a young man of Baghdad Iraq, living though difficult harsh years and the horrors of a war ... How does SalamPax bring his namesake out from so many of us and toward each other? How does SalamPax succeed when so many world leaders and governments have failed?
[An email sent weeks ago but was bounced back from an over full and popular address.]
Saturday June 14, 2003
Thank You
SalamPax,
I've read most of your blog entries, even the archives, and wanted to thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences.
I realize that recent times have been extremely difficult for the Iraqi people. Not only the current war (I consider it still going on) but also during the Hussein and Baath rule. Reading your entries has made the situation feel more real that just some 60 second item on the news.
The news media, especially in the States, seldom presents the personal and individual aspects of the world. They all are too political and offical, such that what will be in the news is predicitable. But it is individual news sources such as your blog that provide real insight into what really goes on in the different parts of the world.
I hope that as the months and years go by everything will improve for the better in your country. Perhaps inspite of the States being there. It is what I hope for, for all the troubled places and people in the world.
Hi Salam, You have some fans in India, I'm sure. We follow the news of Iraq as closely as we can. The trouble is that most of it comes through a Western filter. That's why it has been so good to get an authentic voice from Baghdad. All strength to you
Thu 3-Jul-2003 11:39 Posted by:ksharma
Hi Salam, I love your work and the way the your heart speaks. I'm not gona tell you " keep up the good work" because that's a lot of work with no salary! Diamonds can't be made, they are found and live forever!
Thank you salam
Sat 5-Jul-2003 15:07 Posted by:Nadir nadirmaoui@mac.com
Salam ! Shlonak khaiyo ?
Great your blog, when I started reading it I remembered my Arab friends back in Aleppo where I lived until last year. Bravo aleik, people need to hear about these things that don't reach the mainstream media (YET !). At the end we're all the same humans with the same worries. If you need someone to film for Pax TV let me know !
Hey Salam, I absolutely loved the photos, and Gee's photopage as well.. thanks a lot man.. i know you're very busy .. but please clear up your mail as i can't sen you anything... or giving me a telephone number i could call you on..i was gonna sign as translator in Iraq last week but my mum almost had a heart attack and made me promise not to go .. i went to an Iraqui school for 4 years and i wonder where all my friends are.. please keep safe.. and its fantastic ..tell me how i can help !
Dear Salam,
There's not much that would make me switch my loyalty from The Independent to The Guardian, but the discovery that you are now a contributer may just swing it. I only found out today that you are back on line since the weeks of silence and would like to add my feelings of relief to so many other people's on this site. Your writing has certainly provided the most vivid and personal account of the war available. I am so glad you yourself have come through physically unharmed at least. I wonder whether you can really concieve how well-known and vital you have become as a "voice"? It has been riveting reading your blog and I'll continue to do so. Well done.
Would it be possible for you to expand your coverage of "Baghdad by Night." Has the curfew eradicated night life? Are there any public swimming pools (this admittedly an inane question). Where would one go if one wanted to check out an Iraqi in his speedos? Can we please have more sex/drugs/rock and roll coverage especially if it involves hunky Iraqi soap opera stars or any Baywatch-like situations? Are there any Iraqi Soap opera stars? Can you highlight the most recent fashion thingy in Baghdad? Please don't turn your back on the trivialities of daily life. There is too much high-mindedness going around as it is...
Wed 9-Jul-2003 10:14 Posted by:Gill in London Fgill@excite.com
"Gill in London": you have evidently never been to a Muslim country. To all Muslims reading her post, I apologise on her behalf and ask you to make allowances for her shocking ignorance. Not all of us Westerners want Islam to ape the decadence and shallowness that is everywhere in the West, with which Gill is trying to divert Salam. (Saddam went in for cheap pornography, as revealed by his taste in palace interior decoration, but even Osama bin Laden is reported to have said that Saddam was not a good Muslim.)
Wed 9-Jul-2003 11:16 Posted by:Rachel, a Brit in London
to "Rachel the Brit in London":
well don't think in the muslim
world we don't have sex/drugs/rock'n'roll and soap operas!
This is not "decadence" from the West, it's human behaviour and in all societies you'll find it (more or less visible).
So please: stop your mollah behaviour (and ignorance) and meet some real young people from the Arabic/Muslim countries.
Anis (an arabic guy from a muslim country)
Fri 11-Jul-2003 07:56 Posted by:Anis
Anis - ironically (if you really are an Arab and/or from a Muslim country, and not an imposter), your words seem likely to give comfort to the religious police (eg in Saudi Arabia) and reinforce their resolve; your post here may even help Party members in Iraq who may be reading this bulletin board, by "making their case" for them - to be even more repressive and anti-West - rather than otherwise.
Fri 11-Jul-2003 12:44 Posted by:Rachel, a Brit in London
What will they do?
Will they forbid satellite dishes ?
Will they censor internet ?
Will they stop people for going abroad ?
Will they forbid men and women to meet ?
Will they forbid men and men to meet ?
Will they forbid women and women to meet ?
They know that they are weak (see Iran after Islamic revolution, see TalibanLand how it collapses ), and that they can't control everything so they try to shout loud...-> and this has nothing to do with Islam *it's more cultural than religious* (they hide it through religion)
Believe me, you can do whatever you want wherever you are.
(will they enter inside your mind and command you ?
stupid Mollahs!
Anis
Fri 11-Jul-2003 14:04 Posted by:Anis
Fri 11-Jul-2003 15:43 Posted by:jjones
Jeez Rachel get a life...
Sun 13-Jul-2003 22:40 Posted by:unnamed
Ya' Allah, people like rachel should REALLY get to know the young generation in the Arab World.....she might be surprised.....
Mon 14-Jul-2003 10:20 Posted by:hamida
Dear Salam,
You are an amazing and wonderful person; thank you. I lack the words to say how much I respect and admire you for your intelligence, wit, and words. Look at this, I'm a fangirl. Oof.
Tue 15-Jul-2003 05:01 Posted by:Andrea in Canada rambunctiousimp@hotmail.com
Hamida, and "unnamed": did I rattle your cage?!
Tue 15-Jul-2003 08:42 Posted by:Rachel, a Brit in London
<p> I was going to email you just before the invasion but finally decided not to: I couldn't say a single thing to comfort you then. Though I did, and do, support the violent removal of the Ba'ath regime, you really brought home the psychic cost of being even a non-combatant on the receiving end of the military apparatus. Now, though, I can say: </p>
<ol>
<li> I am very glad you, your family and friends are still alive and unharmed, and wish all of you all the best in the future.
<li> Thank you for your unflinching, honest and nuanced blog.
<li> May you, in your time off as a famous architect, be nearly smothered in all the cute guys you can handle. </ol>
<p> Please don't get down over all the American (and the occasional Muslim, I see) conspiracy theorists who post here and email you: sane, reasonable people are usually a lot quieter, but we <b>do</b> outnumber them! </p>
<p> p.s. Rachel -- stuff a sock in it. You're operating under the delusion that people in different countries are actually different than the ones in your own, or: does the fact that you live a mere 3,000 miles away from Jerry Falwell prevent you from enjoying oral sex? </p>
Thu 17-Jul-2003 20:26 Posted by:peterb, mich., US
Hey Salam i reckon entries are very informative and all, but whoever mentioned oral sex is disgusting, repulsive I really can't imagine people doing that except that they do and oh well really whacked people these days... Just hang on there and remember to always be honest to youself *not to mention others, or people might take advantage of you...you are wonderful, but don't let that get to your head...
You're an inspirational figure, keep on writing!!
Don't worry Iraqis , you might not have water , but you will have MTV and NASCAR really soon.....
Sat 19-Jul-2003 23:51 Posted by:Vic Vega
Really, SalamPax, complements from someone whom you admire ... how much better can it get?
I have been wondering recently ... what are the Iraqis thinking of their future now? At least for the next severval months. Do any see the light at the end of the darkness yet?
Salam - just read your post of today, 1 Aug 2003. I am thinking of you - above all, do the *self*-protective thing - for although you are valuable to God and to many of us around the world, the plain fact is that for the US military, unfortunately, you and the other interpreters are "dispensible". Above all, don't let them (in their utterly crass ignorance of the culture in which they are operating in Iraq) order you into an early-death situation.
If you do have to leave the country, I will do what I can to help you; and I feel sure that others (in London, anyway) will do the same. I did e-mail you directly once, about a month ago, but perhaps my e-mail didn't reach you. I don't want to put my e-mail address here, as I don't want to be flamed by Crabby A and his ilk.
Fri 1-Aug-2003 09:09 Posted by:Rachel, a Brit in London
Salam:
Given all the sensationalized, ratings-driven crap coming out of the US networks, it is so refreshing to read your personalized, informal and sincere postings. I hope the electricity, water and security situation improves soon -- I invite all the Americans who read these postings, regardless on your stance on the invasion, to e-mail Bush and your senators to "smarten" up the reconstruction efforts and to increasingly include Iraqis in rebuilding THEIR country - a prosperous, peaceful Iraq will go a long way towards countering all the anti-american sentiment (that fuels terrorists world wide). Right now the obsession with finding WMD and Saddam at the expense of reconstruction/improved security is going to cost all of us (especially the Iraqis who have suffered enough) in the long-term.
Peace and Love
Chris
Sat 2-Aug-2003 03:44 Posted by:Chris, Philadelphia
Article 15 of the UCMJ authorizes the imposition of nonjudicial punishment (NJP) for certain misconduct. It is a disciplinary measure more serious than administrative corrective measures, but less serious than trial by court-martial. This allows commanders to dispose of certain offenses without trial by court-martial unless the service member objects.
Article 15 of the UCMC (Uniform Code of Military Justice).
Apparently it is part of the law in the States military. It means the young American solider was risking getting into trouble by speaking his mind. Seems kind of ironic coming from a citizen where freedom of speech is so highly regarded. And also being in a place where the States is trying to provide freedom of expression to a people who haven't had such in decades. Or so that is suppose to be part of the reason for them being there. But as he says, he doesn't know why they are there.
SalamPax, it is good you found the encounter so revealing. The young man is more typical of what is American than any offical declaration from the government and political entities.
From the London Guardian of 5 August 2003, quoting a journalist in the Melbourne publication, Age:
"But what would the occupying forces and their families make of Mr Bush's executive order 13303, promulgated without fanfare in May, which gives sweeping powers to US oil companies operating in Iraq while granting immunity to them for the consequences of any of their actions in exploiting the oil? ... [The legal director of the US liberal think tank Government Accountability Project, Tom Devine] comments: 'Translated from the legalese, this is a licence for corporations to loot Iraq and its citizens ...' "
Now tell me that the invasion and occupation of Iraq is not about Iraq's oil.
Thu 7-Aug-2003 14:19 Posted by:Rachel, A Brit in London
Salam,
Where have your archives gone? Have they been sold for your book?
From G2 "· Pieces from the "Baghdad Blogger", whose reports from the Iraqi capital first began appearing in the Guardian during the war and now run in G2, will appear in a Guardian book this autumn. After Salam Pax had received "lots of different offers from the publishing community", Atlantic Books, which copublishes with the Guardian, secured world rights for "a significant five-figure sum"."
Sun 10-Aug-2003 17:15 Posted by:Kat
Kat, are you looking in the right place? The archives seem to be linked from
not from this site. Unless I am missing something.
Sun 10-Aug-2003 20:52 Posted by:Rachel, a Brit in London
Thanks Rachel,
They (the archives) are back today, they weren't there for 2003 yesterday. But yes, that is the place I looked for them.
But there is no comment section on that blog.
I have been reading Salam's blog for months and was trying to show it to someone else.
Salam,
Looking forward to your book.
Mon 11-Aug-2003 20:26 Posted by:Kat
Are the Iraqis who really want their own self-governed nation doing enough to remove the remainants of the former regeime? Expecting the Americans to do it all while being attacked is not going to work. The good Iraqis should really make the bad Iraqis (and/or foregien terrorist types) totally responsible for the slow progress.
Things look bad all over, maybe it has always been bad. If one adds up the numbers in the crime statistics it looks really grim in the States. I wonder how they compare to what's going on in Iraq?
SalamPax has been, and still is in London. In one of his Guardian articles he talks about the going ons there with respect to Iraq. He compared it all to parents (UK, US, UN etal) arguing over how to raise the children (Iraq). He has it wrong, at least from what I see. It is more like children (UK, US, UN and all) fighting over a new toy (Iraq) that one bully (US) just took from another bully (Hussien).
Could you please explain for us the bullying actions of Saddam, and the bullying actions by the US, and how you see them as comparable?
Last time I checked, the US wasn't engaging in genocide against Kurds, preventing Iraqis from expressing their opinions peacefully, operating torture chambers, and using rape as a coercive tool, like Saddam did.
I disagree with your comparison, because it cheapens the real crimes committed by the Ba'athists.
Tue 30-Sep-2003 18:42 Posted by:Crabby A
Your friend's three beer insight into the future is most apt to be true. The Americans still believe their votes determine who is elected. But through political manuveuring districts are drawn that favor one party over another. And there are other tricks of the political trade to manipulate the people's vote. And as your friend suggests there will be the usual events that magically and timely happen. America preachs freedom, democracy, elections but all the while their government and own politicans use every means available to get their party into power. Americans need only to forget their own glasses so they can't really see the ballet and ask for help to put their mark in the correct place.
From Iraqi reporters (I assume) attending the news briefing concerning the capture of Saddam Hussein when they saw the images on the monitors: "Death to Hussein! Death to Hussein! Long live Iraq!"
Sun 14-Dec-2003 13:47 Posted by:Jerry lonefalcon@yahoo.com
A reply to Crabby,
"Last time I checked, the US wasn't engaging in genocide against Kurds". Well check again.
You sold Saddam the gas. You endorsed it by continuing to sell him arms after this occured. Plus you got him to attack Iran for you killing god knows how many. All this in the full knowledge of him "operating torture chambers, and using rape".
The good old U S of A, Saddam could never have done it without you. The US is entirely complicit in the atrocities caused by Saddam Hussain. So yes, you're just as bad.
Bet you don't get that on Fox News.
Thu 18-Dec-2003 13:42 Posted by:Dave
"You sold Saddam the gas. You endorsed it by continuing to sell him arms after this occured."
Cite your source, buddy.
Fact is, the US gave Saddam satellite photographs, and sold Saddam only non-military items at the time. Plain old helicopters (unarmed) are the most "dangerous" thing actually sold to him. His primary weapons supplier at the time was the USSR. He also bought quite a bit of French hardware, such as Mirage jegt fighter/bomber aircraft. Recently, a gaggle of MiGs and Mirages were dug out of the Iraqi sand. Wonder what else is buried?
Sun 28-Dec-2003 08:42 Posted by:Crabby A
From A Family in Baghdad:
"But what I want to say is that some people with suits and large desks in the white house and other places..Are NOT that nice and sincere ,, and .. we have a say : believe half of what you see and nothing of what you hear ..."
-----
Seems like the world over, some of us common folk share the same opinion of politicans.
Thank you Salam for your book,reading your blogs I lived Bagad war days.
Sat 24-Jan-2004 20:48 Posted by:gabriella gabriella1948@supereva.it
Hi Salam, my english is not so fluent to say how has been important for us your report from Bagdad! I've cryed seeing the bomb in Bagdad and I'm crying in this days reading your book. I can't understand the people, I can't understand this and all the others war.I'm from Italy and we think too oft that our art to live is the only one that respect freedom, that's not true... I hope for you and for all Iraq a quick solution a quick peace life... for you and for the Palistinien and for the people in Afganistan and all over the world. thank you!
I think the phrase is: "So long! And thanks for all the fish!" Have a great life.
Tue 13-Jul-2004 23:16 Posted by:Jerry
Salam pax,
Thank you for your work, a grand contribution.
I wish you happiness safety success and longevity. And am looking forward to the book.
And Crabby A, we are here to celebrate Salam pax. If you can't behave, stay home...or go live with Bush
Sun 18-Jul-2004 09:29 Posted by:well wisher
Excuse me. He's simply got the instinct for being unhappy highly developed.
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that you and your family and friends remain safe in this trying time.
))
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