Dubai: Reacting to the death of the most notorious insurgent in Iraq, Abu Musab Al Zarqawi, Iraqi citizens in the UAE expressed hesitant optimism for the future of their country.
Many characterised the news as a major victory, but said it remains to be seen what effect, if any, it will have on the ongoing violence in the country.
"This is brilliant news," said Iraqi Waleed Ali, a Media City worker. "Hopefully this will be a step in the right direction, but I am not confident that the violence in Iraq will end tomorrow.
"If it turns out to be true, this is a good thing for humanity, not just for Iraqis he definitely got what he deserved."
Other Iraqis also expressed a degree of scepticism over the validity of the claims, citing other occasions in which key figures had been pronounced dead, only to reemerge later.
"I am worried that it could just be more propaganda," said Dubai-based Iraqi, Zeena Ahmad. "We have been through so much and never know what is really happening. If it is true it is excellent news he was responsible for much of the pain in Iraq."
Ahmad also expressed concern about the uncertainty that will follow his death, especially with the possibility of major reprisal attacks.
"I have renewed hope now for Iraq. I think his death marks a positive step towards an end to violence," said one Iraqi, who wished to remain anonymous.
"He played a major role in the insurgency, fuelled by a backwards ideology."
UAE-based Iraqi legal advisor Auday Al Qazweeni said Al Zarqawi's death did not mean that violence will end in Iraq, but characterised the incident as a "major setback for terrorism."
"It is not only a joyous moment for Iraqis, but also for those who suffered at the hands of Al Zarqawi's terrorism," said the Sharjah-based lawyer.
"I believe this is happy news for all real Muslims and Arabs who understand our country and its culture."
Jordanian-born Al Zarqawi claimed responsibility for many high profile attacks, including the 2005 triple hotel bombings in his home country.
Jordanian national, Ola Khudair said she was relieved to hear the news of Al Zarqawi's death.
"His death will bring back stability and security to Jordan and to Iraq as well," said Khudair.
However, Jordanian teacher and mother of four, Afaf Yousuf, 42, viewed Al Zarqawi as a "defender of Arab lands."
"Since Al Zarqawi was fighting the American occupiers of Iraq, he is a considered a martyr," she said. "His death is a big loss."
Turki Al Khraisha, Jordan's Ambassador to the UAE told Gulf News, that Al Zarqawi did not represent Islam or Muslims.
"As Jordanians, we know him better than anyone else ? even his closest family members and relatives have disowned him," he said.
"Like our counterparts in Iraq, Jordanians suffered last year when his men attacked a number of hotels in Amman. His death is comforting and timely especially as it coincided with the Iraqi government announcing the names of the new defence and interior ministers."
