Orphaned Iraqi boy says will never understand war

BERLIN, Oct 20 (Reuters) - An Iraqi boy who lost both arms and suffered severe burns in a missile attack in Baghdad in March that killed 16 members of his family said on Monday he hoped to play football and become a doctor.

Ali Ismaeel Abbas, whose armless torso, horrific burns and haunted eyes became a symbol of civilian suffering during the U.S.-led war on Iraq, appeared on German television to thank Iraqi, Kuwaiti and British doctors for saving his life.

"I want to thank the doctors who helped me," 13-year-old Abbas said in an ARD television interview before a "World Award" ceremony in Germany on Wednesday at which he will present Iraqi and Kuwaiti doctors with a "Men of the Year" prize.

"They all put so much energy into helping me and the other wounded children," Abbas said. "It was as if they were taking care of their own sons."

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