A "Model" of Harmony

Re: A Model of Harmony Is Found in a Flashpoint City for Iraqi Sectarian Fighting (Monday, February 22nd, 2010)

To the Editor:
In Monday’s New York Times subscription, the article “A Model of Harmony is Found in a Flashpoint City for Iraqi Sectarian Fighting” speaks to the relative quiet between Sunni and Shi’ite groups in Samarra, an important pilgrimage town in Iraq, and the looming knowledge that America will be leaving the city of in order to provide independence to the city soon. I find that the title of the article isn’t fitting, with the term “Model of Harmony” being utilized. The division between the Sunni and Shi’ite divisions of Islam has existed since the late 7th century, and a great deal of fighting and bloodshed has occurred between these divisions since. What’s most important to note is that this harmony is promoted not through discussion, but by “by a long stretch of gray blast wall separating the shrine and its pilgrims from the rest of the city.” While it’s good that violence has been stemmed, I can only help but feel this is a temporary solution. The United States’ recommendation that the fighting be resolved by building a more technologically sound wall is not going to provide stability between these two groups. I’m reminded of the Berlin Wall and its attempt to resolve disputes between two groups with clashing ideals, and I can only help but feel this resolution will change nothing in Iraq.