Highlights/Thoughts
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1. Iraqi protesters are seeking to reform a democratically elected government, not topple an autocrat
2. But protesters, human rights workers, and security officials say Maliki has responded to Iraq's demonstrations with force
3. Witnesses in Baghdad and as far north as Kirkuk described watching last week as security forces attacked protesters, rounded up others from cafes and hamoes, and hauled them off blindfolded to army detention centers
4. Entire neighborhoods--primarily Sunni areas where residents are generally opposed to Maliki, where blockaded to prevent residents from joining the demonstrations, and journalists were beaten
5. A human rights activist said by someone that Maliki is starting to act like Saddam Hussein by using fear against those who criticize him
6. He said the US must feel embarrassed right now. They promised a modern and democratic state, but in reality?
7. The US officials issued a statement saying they were deeply troubled about Maliki's response to the demonstrations
8. Maliki has been criticized for showing an authoritarian streak, in particular for maintaining a shadow security force outside the regular chains of command. He strongly denies this
9. Maliki denied detaining any protesters, apart from four jounalist who were beaten and released
10. He said the violence would be investigated and blamed some of it on the journalist, former members of Saddam, and al-Qaeda operatives
11. Those who were targeted say Maliki is increasingly using special security forces to punish critics and political opponents
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