What was the primary group referred to as the "Sons of Iraq," and what was their main objective?

The "Sons of Iraq," also known by the Arabic term "al-Sahwah" meaning "the awakening," was a coalition primarily active in the Al Anbar province of Iraq. Formed in 2005, their main objective was to maintain stability within their communities through the establishment of an ad hoc armed force.

What were the key Arabic names associated with the Sons of Iraq, and what do they signify?

The Sons of Iraq were known by several Arabic names. "Abnā' al-'Irāq" directly translates to "Sons of Iraq." Another significant name was "al-Sahwah," which literally means "the awakening," reflecting the movement's broader impact and the emergence of similar groups across Iraq.

Who were the main components of the Sons of Iraq coalition when it was formed?

The Sons of Iraq coalition was composed of Sunni tribal leaders and former military officers from the Saddam-era Iraqi regime. This diverse group united in 2005 with the shared goal of restoring stability to their regions.

What role did General David Petraeus and the U.S. military play in the early stages of the Sons of Iraq?

General David Petraeus and the U.S. military initially sponsored the Sons of Iraq. This sponsorship provided crucial support to the group as they began their operations to stabilize local communities.

How did Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's policies affect the Sons of Iraq movement?

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki adopted sectarian policies to consolidate his power, which led him to denounce the Sons of Iraq as a national threat. He actively worked to dismantle the group and refused to integrate its members into the official Iraqi security services.

What were the consequences for former Sons of Iraq members after the group was dismantled by Prime Minister Maliki?

Following the dismantling of the Sons of Iraq, former members faced difficult choices. Many were left unemployed, and some were compelled to join extremist groups like the Islamic State, a situation considered a significant factor in Iraq's subsequent instability.

What is the connection between the failure to stabilize Iraq and the actions taken against the Sons of Iraq?

The text suggests that Prime Minister al-Maliki's dismantling of the Sons of Iraq and his refusal to integrate them into security forces were key factors contributing to Iraq's failure to stabilize. This instability ultimately played a role in the outbreak of the War in Iraq from 2013 to 2017.

Besides "Sons of Iraq" and "al-Sahwah," what other names were used to refer to this movement?

The movement was known by several other names, including "Anbar's Salvation" or "Anbar Salvation Council" (Inqādh al-Anbār), the "National Council for the Salvation of Iraq," the "Sunni Salvation movement," the "National Council for the Awakening of Iraq," and the "Sunni Awakening movement."

What derogatory terms were used by opponents to label the Sons of Iraq and similar awakening movements?

Opponents, including figures associated with al-Qaeda and Prime Minister Maliki's administration, referred to the Sons of Iraq and related groups using derogatory terms such as "mercenaries." The U.S. military and Iraqi government also used various designations like "Concerned Local Citizens" (CLC), "Sons of Iraq" (SOIZ), and "Very Worried Iraqis."

When and where did the broader "Awakening movement" concept, exemplified by the Sons of Iraq, begin to take shape?

The movement, which included the Sons of Iraq, began among Sunni tribes in Anbar Province in 2005. It rapidly expanded across the country, becoming an ad hoc armed force within a year.

What impact did the Awakening fighters have on the levels of violence in Iraq, according to analysts?

Independent analysts credited the Awakening fighters with significantly reducing the levels of violence in the areas where they operated. Their presence and actions contributed to improved security on the ground.

What concerns were associated with the rapid growth and U.S. military funding of the Awakening groups?

Concerns arose regarding the rapid expansion of these groups, partly due to their salaries being initially paid entirely by the U.S. military. These concerns included allegations of some members' past involvement in fighting coalition forces and the potential for infiltration by insurgent groups like al-Qaeda.

What was Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's specific concern regarding the U.S.-backed "concerned local citizens"?

Prime Minister al-Maliki expressed concern that the U.S.-armed "concerned local citizens" were essentially forming an armed Sunni opposition. He argued that such groups should be under the direct command of the Iraqi Army or police forces.

When and why did the Iraqi Defense Ministry decide to disband the Sunni Awakening groups?

The Iraqi Defense Ministry planned to disband the Sunni Awakening groups in 2009. The primary reason was to prevent these groups from evolving into a separate, independent military force within the country.

What were the initial motivations for the formation of the Anbar Awakening in 2005?

The Anbar Awakening began when the Albu Mahals tribe, who were involved in smuggling fighters and materials across the Syrian border, faced displacement by the Al Salmani tribe, which was allied with al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI). This conflict prompted the Albu Mahals to seek an alliance with the U.S. Marines.

Describe the situation in Anbar Province regarding Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) between August and December 2006.

During this period, Anbar Province, particularly its capital Ramadi, was largely occupied by Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI). Sunni sheikhs and officials initially cooperated with AQI to counter Shiite influence but later turned against them due to AQI's promotion of terrorism.

What was the significance of the Anbar Awakening in the context of U.S. counterinsurgency strategy?

The Anbar Awakening was highlighted by President George W. Bush in his State of the Union address as a prime example and ideal of the "New Way" surge policy's counterinsurgency approach. It demonstrated the potential for local populations to unite with U.S. forces against insurgents.

Who was Sheik Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi, and what happened to him?

Sheik Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi was a prominent Sunni leader in Anbar province and a key figure in the Anbar Salvation Council. He was assassinated in September 2007, along with two bodyguards, by a roadside bomb planted near his home in Ramadi.

Who succeeded Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi as leader, and what challenges did he face?

Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi was succeeded by his brother, Ahmed Abu Risha. However, Ahmed Abu Risha struggled to unite the various militias within the Awakening movement following his brother's death.

When did the Iraqi government assume responsibility for paying the Awakening councils, and what was the approximate number of members involved?

In October 2008, the Iraqi government took over the responsibility for paying approximately 54,000 members of the Awakening councils from the American military.

What was the reaction of many Awakening fighters to the Iraqi government taking over their payments?

Many Awakening fighters expressed distrust towards the Iraqi government regarding their future employment and financial support. Some viewed the transfer of payment responsibility from the U.S. Army as an act of betrayal.

What were the primary roles undertaken by the Sons of Iraq groups when paid by the American military and Iraqi government?

The Sons of Iraq groups were paid to cease hostilities against coalition forces, patrol their neighborhoods to maintain local security, and actively combat other Sunni insurgents who opposed the government and coalition presence.

How did the U.S. military perceive the contribution of the Sons of Iraq groups?

The U.S. military stated that the Sons of Iraq groups were instrumental in helping them target al-Qaeda in Iraq more effectively. They also noted that these groups helped minimize collateral damage during operations.

What effect did the rise of the Awakening groups have on the tactics of Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI)?

According to The Washington Post, the presence and actions of the Awakening groups reportedly pressured Al-Qaeda in Iraq to moderate its tactics. This shift was an attempt by AQI to regain public support, which had been eroded by the group's violent methods.

What shift in allegiance occurred among some elements of the Sons of Iraq movement?

Elements within the Sons of Iraq movement, who had previously fought against U.S. forces in the earlier phases of the war, later allied with the U.S. Their new objective was to expel foreign extremist elements, primarily Al-Qaeda in Iraq, from the country.

What kind of support did Iraqi and U.S. forces reportedly provide to counter radical Islamists in Anbar province?

Iraqi and U.S. forces reportedly provided vehicles, guns, and ammunition to the Sons of Iraq and similar groups. This support was aimed at strengthening their capacity to counter radical Islamist insurgents operating in Anbar province.

How did Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) view the Sons of Iraq movement?

Al-Qaeda in Iraq condemned the Sons of Iraq movement. They denounced the groups for actively fighting against insurgents and for collaborating with what AQI termed the "filthy crusaders" (referring to coalition forces).

What risks did the Government Accountability Office (GAO) identify regarding the Sons of Iraq and their relationship with the Iraqi government?

The GAO warned that the Sons of Iraq groups had not yet reconciled with the Iraqi government. They also highlighted the continued risk of infiltration by insurgents into these groups, posing a threat to long-term stability.

What was the Iraqi Defense Ministry's stated intention regarding the disbandment of the Awakening groups?

The Iraqi Defense Ministry intended to disband the Awakening groups to prevent them from establishing themselves as a separate military entity. Defense Minister Abdul-Qadir al-Obaidi explicitly rejected the idea of the Awakening becoming a "third military organization."

What plans did the Iraqi government outline for integrating or supporting members of the Awakening groups?

The Iraqi government pledged to absorb approximately a quarter of the Awakening members into the state's military and security services. The remaining members were slated to receive vocational training, with the Interior Ministry agreeing to hire thousands on temporary contracts.

What potential risk did Iraq expert Ramzy Mardini associate with the rise of the Awakening councils?

Ramzy Mardini suggested that the uncertainty surrounding the status of the Sunni tribal Awakening movement could risk reigniting the Jaysh al-Mahdi militia. He posited that if the central government failed to meet the Awakening movement's demands, the U.S. "surge" strategy could be jeopardized.

What offer did Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki make to Sons of Iraq members in Diyala Province in August 2008?

In August 2008, Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki offered jobs to 3,000 members of the Sons of Iraq in Diyala Province. This initiative was intended to gather intelligence on militants operating in the region.

What led to a two-day gunbattle in Baghdad in March 2009 involving Awakening members?

The gunbattle erupted following the arrest of Adel al-Mashhadani, the leader of the Sunni tribal-based Awakening Movement in Fadhil, Baghdad. He was arrested on charges including murder, extortion, and violating the constitution, accused of leading the banned Baath Party's military wing.

By June 6, 2012, what was the status of integration and employment for Sons of Iraq members?

By June 6, 2012, approximately 70,000 Sons of Iraq members had been integrated into the Iraqi Security Forces or provided with civilian jobs. An additional 30,000 members continued to work, maintaining checkpoints and receiving a government salary of around $300 per month.

What action did Iraqi Shia-appointed officials take in January 2013 regarding Awakening Council fighters' salaries?

In January 2013, Iraqi Shia officials announced an increase in the salaries of Awakening Council fighters. This move was part of an effort to appease Sunni anti-government protests that had emerged in December 2012.

What was the salary increase for Awakening Council fighters in early 2013?

Around 41,000 Awakening Council fighters were set to receive a monthly salary of 500,000 Iraqi dinars (approximately $415), an increase from the previous 300,000 dinars ($250).

What significant event occurred on January 21, 2013, involving individuals convicted of terrorism?

On January 21, 2013, the Iraqi government announced the execution of 26 men convicted of "terrorism." This group included Adel Mashhadani, who had been arrested in March 2009 and sentenced to death in November 2009 for murder.

What was the estimated number of Awakening members killed between 2009 and 2013?

Between 2009 and 2013, it was documented that 1,345 members of the Awakening movement were killed.

Who was identified as the head of the Sons of Iraq movement in 2007?

In 2007, Sheikh Ahmed Abu Risha was identified as the head of the Sons of Iraq movement.

Who are listed as assassinated members of the Sons of Iraq or related movements?

The text specifically lists Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi, the former leader of the Anbar Salvation Council, and Fasal al Gaood, the former governor of al Anbar province, as assassinated members.

What is the significance of the flag shown in the infobox?

The flag depicted in the infobox is identified as the Flag of the Iraq Awakening Conference, representing one of the key organizational banners associated with the Sons of Iraq movement.

Sons Of Iraq Wiki: The Sons of Iraq: Tribal Awakening and the Fragile Peace

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Overview

Counter-Insurgency Force

The Sons of Iraq, also known as al-Sahwah (the awakening), emerged as a coalition of Sunni tribal leaders and former Iraqi military officers, primarily in the Al Anbar province, beginning in 2005. Their initial objective was to restore stability within their communities by combating insurgent groups, including Al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI).

Strategic Alliance

Initially sponsored by U.S. military leadership, notably General David Petraeus, these groups received weapons and training. Their efforts were credited with significantly reducing violence levels in the areas where they operated, demonstrating a crucial shift in local dynamics against extremist elements.

Political Repercussions

Despite their effectiveness in counter-insurgency, the Sons of Iraq faced political challenges. Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki viewed them with suspicion, implementing sectarian policies that led to their eventual dismantling and a failure to integrate them into the national security services. This political turn is widely considered a contributing factor to subsequent instability and the rise of new threats.

Varied Designations

Common Appellations

The movement was known by numerous names, reflecting its diverse origins and the perspectives of various stakeholders:

Sons of Iraq (SOIZ): Widely used by the U.S. military.
Al-Sahwah: The Arabic term, meaning "the awakening," often associated with the broader movement across Iraq.
Anbar Salvation Council / Anbar Awakening: Specific to their origins in Anbar province.
National Council for the Salvation of Iraq
Sunni Salvation movement
Concerned Local Citizens (CLC): A designation used by the U.S. Department of Defense.

Contrasting Labels

These appellations highlight differing viewpoints:

Pejorative Terms: Some factions, including Prime Minister Maliki's administration and elements of AQI, referred to them as "mercenaries" or "al-Qaeda" to discredit them.
Neutral/Descriptive Terms: Names like "Awakening groups" or "Tribal Mobilization" were also used.

The multiplicity of names underscores the complex and often contentious nature of the group's identity and role in the conflict.

Genesis in Anbar

Tribal Roots

The movement's origins trace back to 2005 within the Albu Mahals tribe in Anbar Province. Displaced by AQI, tribal leaders sought an alliance with U.S. Marine Corps forces, initiating a partnership that would evolve into the broader Sons of Iraq initiative.

Shifting Allegiances

Initially, some tribal leaders may have tacitly supported or tolerated insurgent activities to counterbalance perceived Shiite government dominance. However, AQI's extreme tactics alienated these tribal figures, prompting them to align with U.S. and Iraqi security forces to reclaim local control and security.

Sheik Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi: A pivotal Sunni leader in Anbar, he founded the Anbar Salvation Council in September 2006. His father and brothers were killed by al-Qaeda, fueling his opposition.
Ramadi and Fallujah: These key cities in Anbar became early strongholds of the Awakening movement, with tribal support crucial for regaining control from AQI alongside U.S. forces.
Assassination of al-Rishawi: In September 2007, al-Rishawi was assassinated by a roadside bomb, a significant blow that impacted the movement's cohesion. His brother, Ahmed Abu Risha, succeeded him but faced challenges in unifying the various militias.

Operational Impact

Violence Reduction

The Sons of Iraq played a significant role in decreasing violence across Iraq. By providing local security, patrolling neighborhoods, and actively fighting against insurgent groups, they bolstered stability, particularly in previously volatile regions like Anbar.

Targeted Operations

Their local knowledge and presence enabled more precise targeting of al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) and other extremist factions. This collaboration also helped coalition forces minimize collateral damage and gain crucial intelligence.

Community Policing: Patrolling neighborhoods and manning checkpoints.
Intelligence Gathering: Providing local insights into insurgent activities.
Direct Combat: Engaging in firefights against AQI and other hostile groups.
Softening Insurgent Tactics: Reports suggest the Awakening's success pressured AQI to moderate its approach to regain public favor, though this was often superficial.

Concerns and Criticisms

Despite their successes, concerns were raised regarding the rapid expansion of these groups. Allegations persisted about some members' past involvement in fighting coalition forces, and the potential for infiltration by insurgent elements like AQI remained a significant worry for Iraqi authorities.

The Government's Decision

Iraqi Government Policy

In 2009, the Iraqi Ministry of Defense announced plans to disband the Sons of Iraq. The stated rationale was to prevent the formation of a separate military force and to consolidate security under the direct command of the Iraqi Army and police, reflecting Prime Minister Maliki's concerns about their autonomy.

Integration Challenges

The Iraqi government pledged to absorb a portion of the fighters into state security services and provide vocational training for others. However, the absorption process was slow and incomplete, leaving many members unemployed or disillusioned. Many Awakening fighters expressed distrust in the government's ability to provide for them, viewing the transfer of responsibility from the U.S. military as a betrayal.

Unintended Consequences

The disbandment and lack of adequate integration are considered critical factors that contributed to Iraq's subsequent instability. Many former members, feeling abandoned and facing threats from extremist groups, were reportedly driven to rejoin or support insurgent organizations, including the Islamic State, exacerbating the conflict.

Political Participation

Electoral Engagement

Emerging from the Awakening movements, several political parties participated in the 2009 Iraqi governorate elections. Notably, the Iraq Awakening and Independents National Alliance secured the largest number of seats in the Anbar Governorate, indicating a significant level of political influence derived from their security role.

Post-Surge Vulnerability

Islamic State Campaign

Following Prime Minister al-Maliki's re-election in 2010, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) initiated a targeted assassination campaign against Sunni tribal leaders and remaining members of the Sons of Iraq. This campaign aimed to eliminate opposition and reassert extremist control.

Escalating Violence

Between 2009 and 2013, an estimated 1,345 Sons of Iraq members were killed in targeted attacks, including drive-by shootings and bombings. Specific areas like Jurf al-Sakhar saw significant casualties among Awakening members, highlighting their continued vulnerability after the withdrawal of U.S. forces and the Iraqi government's failure to provide adequate protection.

Key Figures

Prominent Leaders

Several tribal leaders played crucial roles in the formation and leadership of the Sons of Iraq:

Sheik Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi: Founding leader of the Anbar Salvation Council, assassinated in 2007.
Sheik Ahmed Abu Risha: Brother of Abdul Sattar, who took over leadership but struggled to maintain unity.
Sheik Ali Hatem al-Suleiman: Another significant tribal leader associated with the movement.
Sheik Abdul-Jabbar Abu Risha
Saad Ghaffoori (a.k.a. Abu Abed)
Abu Azzam al Tamimi

Assassinated Members

The movement suffered significant losses due to targeted killings by extremist groups and political opponents:

Abdul Sattar Buzaigh al-Rishawi
Fasal al Gaood (former governor of Al Anbar province)
Adel al-Mashhadani (convicted of murder and kidnapping, executed in 2013)

These assassinations destabilized leadership and underscored the precarious position of those who allied with coalition forces.

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References

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The Sons of Iraq: A Crucible of Conflict and Change

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🗺️

🛡️ Counter-Insurgency Force

🤝 Strategic Alliance

⚠️ Political Repercussions

Varied Designations 🏷️

📜 Common Appellations

🗣️ Contrasting Labels

Genesis in Anbar 🏛️

➡️ Tribal Roots

🔄 Shifting Allegiances

Operational Impact 🤝

📉 Violence Reduction

🎯 Targeted Operations

❓ Concerns and Criticisms

The Government's Decision 💔

🏛️ Iraqi Government Policy

💼 Integration Challenges

📉 Unintended Consequences

Political Participation 🗳️

📊 Electoral Engagement

Post-Surge Vulnerability ⚔️

🎯 Islamic State Campaign

💀 Escalating Violence

Key Figures 👤

⭐ Prominent Leaders

⚰️ Assassinated Members

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Counter-Insurgency Force

Strategic Alliance

Political Repercussions

Varied Designations

Common Appellations

Contrasting Labels

Genesis in Anbar

Tribal Roots

Shifting Allegiances

Operational Impact

Violence Reduction

Targeted Operations

Concerns and Criticisms

The Government's Decision

Iraqi Government Policy

Integration Challenges

Unintended Consequences

Political Participation

Electoral Engagement

Post-Surge Vulnerability

Islamic State Campaign

Escalating Violence

Key Figures

Prominent Leaders

Assassinated Members

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice