Separation Anxiety As U.S. Prepares To Leave Sadr City

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Eaken teaches Iraqi soldiers about the 120mm Mortar System, including hand and arm signals used to adjust the system in Mahmudiyah, Iraq, March 26, 2009. The soldiers are assigned to the 1st Infantry Division's Company D, 1st Combined Armor Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kani Ronningen

From The Washington Post:

BAGHDAD -- The unthinkable is happening in Sadr City as the U.S. military begins to shut down its outposts to meet a June 30 deadline to withdraw from Iraqi cities.

Separation anxiety is growing among residents, local leaders and American soldiers in the sprawling, impoverished Shiite district that was once the most dangerous battlefield in Baghdad for U.S. troops.

"When the Americans leave, everything will be looted because no one will be watching," an Iraqi army lieutenant newly deployed there said. "There will be a civil war -- without a doubt," predicted an Iraqi interpreter. Council members have asked about political asylum in the United States.

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My Comment: I can understand if the civilian population are pessimistic .... but when this mindset even reaches the Iraqi Security forces .... we all should be concerned.