It was a day of demonstrations – in Baghdad as well as in London.



There must have been about 100 people who made here from Europe, North America and Japan.



The Japanese were definitely the most colourful, their leader being a pop star all in white who brought half a dozen enthusiastic drummers dressed in multi-coloured outfits, looking like jesters.



Gustavo – the canine shield – brought up the rear. The British human shields, on two double decker buses, haven’t made it yet – they were last heard of in Syria.



Their banners read “Peace” is several languages, “All weapons into musical instruments” and”Blooming flowers in the hearts of all.”



I have to say that some Iraqis watching this carnival go past seemed somewhat bemused, but others said they appreciated the effort the foreigners had made to come here to stand against the war, and made V for Victory signs and clapped the protestors on their way.



The big issue is the fact that these people, who are sincere and non-violent, are unwittingly helping Saddam Hussein.



Kathy Kelly, the leader of Voices in the Wilderness, an American organisation which has been protesting about sanctions for seven years, was clear that she criticises the Iraqi President as she criticises President Bush, but feels as an American citizen it’s her responsibility to highlight what she sees as wrong in her own country’s policy.



I suppose that begs the question, why do it here rather than at home?



But at least she’s thought about it, and has made a commitment to Iraq, visiting on many occasions. Some other protestors seem naïve at best.



Every day the Iraqi newspapers carry reports of anti-war protests all over the world and today Iraqi TV was full of it.



The reports are true, but the implication - that this translates as support for the regime in Baghdad - is not (I presume) what the demonstrators intend.



Iraqis were out on the streets as well, but these demonstrations are definitely organised as a boost to the government.



Students from the army college were amongst the most energetic, shouting “All of us are defending Iraq” and waving kalashnikovs in the air. Not quite so peaceful.