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AROUND THE WORLD 4: Attacks in Iraq and Pakistan

Last Tuesday was a very important holiday for many people who practice the religion of Islam (Muslims). The day was observed by a particular group of Muslims called Shi'ites. In many places around the world, the Shi'ite Muslims celebrated the day known as Ashura by attending services at mosques and participating in rituals that symbolize historical events. In particular, the day of Ashura is meant to honor the death of an important figure named Imam Hussein.

Attacks interrupted the religious services of many of these worshippers in two countries: Iraq and Pakistan. In Iraq, the city of Karbala was attacked by several explosions in the city center. Many Iraqis were killed and many more were injured as they gathered to observe the holy day. A number of people from the neighboring country of Iran were also killed, because they came across the border to participate in the rituals with fellow Shi'ite Muslims in Iraq. Also in Iraq, in the capital city of Baghdad, an explosion went off at a mosque.

Far away, in Pakistan, crowds of Shi'ite Muslims gathered to observe the Ashura. In the Pakistani city of Quetta, someone with a gun opened fire on worshippers, leaving more casualties and injuries. In both places, people of all ages were present.

The day after the attacks, many people were mourning the loss of loved ones, but many people were also calling for justice. Many Shi'ites, in both Iraq and Pakistan, believe that they know who is responsible for the attacks. In both places, there are two different traditions of understanding Islam: Shi'ism and Sunnism. There is tension between people in these two traditions, and in the past, there has been violence between them. Sunnis attack Shi'ites and sometimes Shi'ites attack Sunnis. In the case of these recent attacks, the Shi'ites are blaming the Sunnis, and in both Pakistan and Iraq, the victims and the families of victims are demanding that the attackers be found and charged with crimes.

In both Pakistan and Iraq, authorities believe that they will be able to find the people responsible for the attacks. It is clear, however, that preventing future attacks by either group will require great efforts. Such efforts, however, will be worth it for the future of both countries--especially Iraq.

--Written by Betsy Mesard

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