Jun 30, 2009 10:53 pm US/Central
Local Iraqi Natives Predict Violence Back Home
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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George Sheena is an Assyrian-American who lives in Chicago. He says that Iraqis need to be independent, but he predicts a civil war will erupt.
CBS
On a day of national celebration, there was a bloody stain to Iraq's takeover of security. There was carnage on the streets after a car bomb exploded in a crowded outdoor market in Kirkuk. At least 30 people died. However, this time, U.S. soldiers did not respond because the Iraqis are now in charge of security.
CBS 2's Anne State reports that some native Iraqis in Chicago are predicting even more violence: a civil war involving the Sunni, Shia and Kurds.
At the Venus Café in Chicago, George Sheena proudly shows us the pictures and symbols of his homeland.
"It's all we have left," Sheena said.
Sheena is an Assyrian-American born in Kirkuk, Iraq. He is constantly connecting with people back home.
"Iraqis have to be independent," Sheena said. "They have to take care of their security and their country by themselves."
He says it's time for American troops to go, but he predicts unrest will follow.
Isam Solaka owns Venus Café. He showed us a photo of his father's home back in Iraq. He, too, is worried about instability there.
But in Iraq itself, Tuesday was declared "National Sovereignty Day." American combat troops have left Iraqis cities. However, a small number will stay behind as trainers and advisors or to assist Iraqis in the countryside.
Donna Turner's son is one of the soldiers who is still in Iraq. His wife, two kids and of course his mother are all praying for his safe return.
"My daughter-in-law jokingly says she's a single mom and she'll be glad when her husband comes back home so he can share in what goes on," Turner said.
Turner says her feelings are bittersweet since the future is unknown. Her son has been in the military for five years. He has served in South Korea, Afghanistan, and is now on his second tour in Iraq. She wonders what's next. But her faith tells her all will be well.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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