Editorial: First Step for Reconciliation

Hundreds of Iraqi tribal leaders meet today to draft a charter committing them to take the national reconciliation initiative forward. The conference will mark the start of a new culture of forgiveness, using the weight the tribal leaders carry among Iraqis. Initial signs are positive, and the cooperation among different tribes underlines their sense of solidarity despite their diverse sectarian backgrounds. When the sectarian conflict began escalating, tribal leaders agreed to bridge the gap. They are famed for their bravery, generosity and wisdom, and have the capacity to prepare the ground for the reconciliation process and help make it a success. We are certain they will spare no efforts to fulfill their great mission.