Wired is carrying an interesting update on the state of Linux in Iraq.
Though the United States has eased several restrictions governing the export of goods and technologies to Iraq over the past year, "publicly available" software, like Linux, remains caught in limbo because it implements certain security standards -- namely, strong encryption.
Linux developers say strong encryption is necessary to protect the security of businesses and Internet users. American policy makers believe it's a tool that terrorists may use to hide their communications from law enforcement officials. In light of the current war on terrorism, the latter argument has so far prevailed -- meaning anyone wishing to send a copy of Linux to Iraq must first obtain permission from the Department of Commerce.
Meanwhile, the Department of Commerce has classified Microsoft Windows and Sun Solaris as "mass-market encryption products," meaning that the vendors can ship them to Iraq without a license.
This has to be a new low for the US government :S