http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20101214/OPINION01/312149942/-1/opinion
 

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom in May faulted the government's failure to protect Christians and other minorities.

"The violence, forced displacement, discrimination, marginalization and neglect suffered by members of these groups threaten these ancient communities' very existence in Iraq," the commission said.

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has called for tolerance of Christians and other minority faiths. His government, though, needs to do more to ensure the protection of religious minorities.

The United States has devoted much to help Iraq build a better country. Religious persecution is a step backward.