Letter: End sanctions against the people of Iraq

Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2001 | 8:41 a.m.

I am writing to urge an end to the economic sanctions against Iraq. The United Nations and United States sanctions against Iraq are unprecedented in their scope and effect. After more than a decade of sanctions, Saddam Hussein appears no closer to be removed from power.

Yet, according to United Nations figures and other humanitarian agencies, as many as 5,000 children under 5 years of age die every month as a result of the sanctions. More than 11 years after the invasion of Kuwait, we are still at war: a war that continues today in the form of sanctions on the Iraqi people.

I support the Campaign of Conscience, a national campaign begun by the American Friends Service Committee and the Fellowship of Reconciliation, two of the oldest, largest and most prestigious peace organizations in the United States. The campaign is based on the understanding that our most deeply held religious and moral beliefs and international law prohibit the destruction of civilians, even during war.

Iraq must be allowed to rebuild its civilian infrastructure, such as the potable water systems and electrical grid, so that schools, hospitals and food production can be restored.

BRIAN KNOTT