(Iraq) Abductions Spark Debate Over the Right Response

[papau]

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-iraq28jul28.story

Abductions Spark Debate Over the Right Response
Despite U.S. and Iraqi appeals, negotiation is the preferred choice. A tribal leader agrees.
By Edmund Sanders and Megan K. Stack
Times Staff Writers

July 28, 2004

BAGHDAD — An epidemic of kidnappings in Iraq has intensified an international debate over whether to negotiate with abductors or stand firm and risk more beheadings. <snip>

A Jordanian transportation firm, Daoud & Partners, on Tuesday became the latest foreign company to announce plans to withdraw its workers from Iraq, a move it hopes will secure the release of two drivers kidnapped this week.

U.S. and Iraqi officials have stepped up their appeals, urging foreign governments and contractors to stand firm against the threats.<snip>

Interim Iraqi President Ghazi Ajil Yawer said his government would not deal with hostage-takers. "We will never give in to their demands or negotiate with them," he told reporters Tuesday. "Whoever the hostage, we won't pay a single cent or make any concessions." <snip>

The concession drew scorn from parts of the international community, but Iraqi clerics and tribal leaders say negotiations can be fruitful — and they have played key roles in recent weeks.<snip>

[Spinzonner]

1. Well, I dont know if this was true

but reportedly, back in the good old days (if we only knew) when they were doing abductions in Lebanon, some kidnappers had the bright idea to kidnap some Soviet agents.

The KGB decided to return the favor and separated the victim from his er, "Private parts". Dont recall if he was returned alive. I believe no more Soviet agents were abducted.

Wouldnt exactly endear us and a war of atrocities is not likely to be something we can win - or enjoy doing so - but it might get their attention.

[papau]

2. I believe some family members did die - and the USSR

did not have a problem thereafter.