U.S. Fallout from Blackwater Scandal

 United States State Department Security Chief resigns

Richard Griffin gave no official explanation as to his withdrawal, but it comes amidst investigation into the Blackwater Scandal.

Mohammed Abdul Razzaq, was offered $12,500 over the death of his son.  He rejected the offer.

“they didn’t acknowledge their crime [...]   Don’t they need to acknowledge my son’s blood first so I can forgive them? Now I can’t. How can I take compensation and they never acknowledge the crime?”

Razzaq is demanding a formal apology from Blackwater CEO Erik Prince, prosecution of those responsible for his son’s death and political asylum in the United States so he can pursue the case in American courts.

Another survivor, taxi driver Sami Hawas, told CNN he received $7,500 from the embassy, a payment he described as “aid.” Hawas was shot a number of times in the back and leg.  He said he is unable to work now and complained about the high cost of medication. He took the money, he said, because he needs help paying for medical treatment and supporting his family.

“Even if they compensate me with millions, it will not make up for the lost blood and the pain I live every day,” he told CNN.

U.S. Embassy spokeswoman Mirembe Natango said the payments were “part of a standard procedure” and would continue.  She described them as “short-term and speedy aid and support” but said they were not an admission of guilt. She said those receiving the money do not waive any right to future compensation.
This just adds to the pile of evidence of a poorly managed war and  contributes to tensions between the Muslim world and Americans.

Fred Soto is an Attorney and Entrepreneur from the Silicon Valley.
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