Haditha Values Training and Justice

The current investigations of Marines purportedly responsible for civilian murders in Haditha (Iraq) by the Marines highlights the unfortunate folly of the undertaking that is called Operation Iraqi Freedom. This is like asking the Mafia to find jimmy Hoffa's body.

If Iraq is a democratic and independent state, then why aren't the U.S. Marines being investigated and, if need be, tried in an Iraqi court? If G.I.'s kill in Okinawa, or Germany, or wherever else they may be stationed, they are generally tried in that host nation, such is the protocol of jurisduction and sovereignty.

So why doesn't this principle apply in Iraq? We are acting as though this our playground for growing up a just nation. But just who is it that needs to be taught?