Meaning: The quote you provided is from Robert Fisk, an esteemed journalist known for his extensive coverage of the Middle East. In this particular quote, Fisk is reflecting on the aftermath of the American invasion of Baghdad in 2003. He highlights the contradiction between the Americans' perception of "liberating" Baghdad and the reality on the ground, where widespread looting and chaos ensued.

Fisk's quote encapsulates the complex and often contradictory nature of war and its aftermath. The notion of liberation, as perceived by the invading forces, is contrasted with the experiences of the local population who are grappling with the immediate consequences of the invasion. The word "liberated" is put in quotation marks, suggesting a sense of irony or skepticism about the true nature of the so-called liberation.

The reference to "tens of thousands of thieves" conveys the scale of looting and lawlessness that engulfed Baghdad in the wake of the invasion. Fisk describes how these looters operated in organized groups, often traveling in trucks and cars to plunder the city. This stark portrayal of chaos and lawlessness challenges the narrative of a smooth and benevolent liberation portrayed by the invading forces.

Fisk's observation sheds light on the dissonance between the rhetoric of liberation and the harsh reality faced by the Iraqi people. The quote serves as a powerful critique of the oversimplified and idealized narratives often propagated by those in power during times of war and conflict.

The quote also raises thought-provoking questions about the true motivations and consequences of military interventions. It prompts us to consider whose perspectives and experiences are prioritized in the discourse of liberation and whose voices are marginalized or ignored.

Furthermore, Fisk's quote underscores the importance of critically examining the narratives presented by governments and media during times of conflict. It serves as a reminder to approach such narratives with skepticism and to seek out alternative perspectives, especially those of the affected populations.

In conclusion, Robert Fisk's quote encapsulates the complexities and contradictions inherent in the concept of liberation, particularly in the context of war and invasion. It challenges simplistic narratives and urges us to consider the multifaceted realities experienced by those directly impacted by conflict. Fisk's insightful observation serves as a poignant reminder of the need to critically analyze and question the prevailing narratives surrounding military interventions and their aftermath.