Threats and Killings Striking Fear Among Young Iraqis, Including Gays.

BAGHDAD -- A recent spate of killings and intimidation aimed at gay Iraqis and teenagers who dress in brash Western fashions is sending waves of fear through Iraq's secular circles while casting doubt on the government's will to protect some of its most vulnerable citizens. Many details of what Iraqi newspapers have called the ''emo killings'' are murky, but the uproar comes at an awkward moment for Iraq. The country has been preparing to showcase itself to the world as host of a high-profile meeting of Arab leaders in late March, the first major diplomatic event here since American forces withdrew in December. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]