Seeds of nonviolent resistance sown in Iraq

Although Mahmoud does not condemn the violent route of the muqawma, he says that a parallel political route must be taken. "The resistance has a direct way," explains the sheikh. "It shows its disagreement by killing. We are a political front, and we publicize our ideas by fliers, banners, and demonstrations."

But some of Adhamiyeh's residents are cynical about the council and its efforts. "None of those people has the right to say they represent the people of Adhamiyeh," says Abu Tareq, a former high-ranking Army officer.

Mr. Tareq was walking home as the march proceeded toward the tanks. "This demonstration has no value, and it has no supporters," he says, noting the relatively small number of participants. "The Americans will not listen to this. It is just an outlet for the people's feelings."

Tareq says he does not oppose negotiations with the coalition, but he says that it must be based on equal levels of power. "The Americans forced their way in and must be forced out," he says. "America needs to be challenged because she respects those who challenge her. We don't have the planes, the tanks, or the heavy weapons, but we have the will to fight."

Some say the council is made up of the "elite" who "haven't done a thing while everyone else is fighting," says Mr. Sabar.

Husham Sabar Wahid, Sabar's father, suspects that the council is working with the Americans. But Sheikh Mahmoud insists that his group has no connection to American forces.

The demonstration was a trial run, he says. "We wanted to see if the media would actually cover the event and send out our message."

And in his desire to get the message across, Mahmoud is opening doors normally closed to foreigners: his own. Talking to an American reporter in his living room, he says: "We want to tell the Americans that [American soldiers] entering mosques and homes will increase the acts of the resistance against them."

Another visitor listens quietly but at last speaks up. "I oppose the Ashura because the Americans won't listen," says Abu Muayed. "The Americans told many lies about hidden weapons of mass destruction and plans for reconstruction. None of it came true. So, some of the Iraqis started resisting, and God help them."

But according to Dr. Nadhmi, not everyone is able to resist using violence. "People have jobs, families, health problems." he says. Consequently, he says, this is the beginning of a peaceful movement in the normally violent district. "Even [those who] wholeheartedly support the resistance will tell you that no one wants a confrontation with the mightiest force in the world," he says.

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