Anbar Awakening movement

The Anbar Awakening was a movement in Iraq around 2006-2007 where Sunni Sunni tribes and communities in Anbar Province turned against extremist groups like Al-Qaeda. They decided to cooperate with U.S. and Iraqi government forces to fight insurgents, aiming to restore stability and security. This grassroots effort involved local leaders and residents recognizing that extremist violence threatened their own communities. The movement significantly reduced violence in the region and contributed to broader efforts to stabilize Iraq. It is seen as a pivotal example of local communities taking action to combat terrorism and restore peace.