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Mr. COBLE. Mr. Speaker, the infamous Iraqi prison photographs with which we are so familiar portray deplorable scenes for which we will apologize. I am concerned that these inappropriate practices occurred, but I am further concerned regarding the double standards that many countries apply regarding terrorism, and I will discuss that in detail herewith.

Much attention has been directed, Mr. Speaker, against America regarding the Iraqi prison matter; but comparatively speaking, little has been expressed against the terrorists.

Who will apologize or express concern for the 9/11 attack and the 3,000 innocent lives lost?

Who will apologize for the first attack to the World Trade Center and subsequent attacks upon our embassies and the U.S.S. Cole?

Who will apologize for the recent deadly explosion in Spain?

Who will apologize regarding hostages who were mutilated and hanged from a bridge while onlookers gleefully applauded and laughed obscenely?

These questions are rhetorical, Mr. Speaker, because no apologies are forthcoming, and many do not appear to be concerned about it.

I am told that the majority of Iraqis wanted Saddam removed from power, but they were unwilling and were incapable of doing the job themselves because they feared Saddam and knew the pain and torture he was capable of inflicting upon them.

Incidentally, Mr. Speaker, Saddam's rape rooms are no longer open for business, nor are Saddam's torture chambers. Why do we hear virtually nothing about the rape rooms and the torture chambers having been shut down? They are shut down because America, Great Britain, and coalition members stepped forward and Saddam retreated to his spider hole where he was captured.

Some in Iraq embrace us as liberators, while others, including terrorists from beyond Iraq, reject us as occupiers.

The closer Iraq approaches freedom and democracy, the more impediments and barriers the terrorists will erect.

When the government is handed over to the Iraqi Council on 30 June, many have declared, oh, the Americans must never leave because civil unrest may erupt. Well, I agree, we cannot abruptly depart, but Iraq needs to step up to the plate on 30 June.

Mr. Speaker, there is an expression uttered in the rural South to indicate appropriate timing. This expression is called ``high time.'' So I say today it is high time for Iraq to accept responsibility and express a willingness to govern and stand up to terrorism. If they want us to leave, they can show the world they are capable of governing responsibly. They can show the world they have the fortitude to avoid intimidation by terrorists and the evil practices they dispense.

I am not suggesting that America become the rigid, inflexible, fully supportive rod for the Iraqi spine or backbone, but rather serve as a brace or splint to permit and encourage independent function. I firmly believe that day will come, Mr. Speaker. I pray it will be sooner rather than later.

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