"There are very few who consider the drop in violence in Baghdad a positive development as it is based on shaky foundations. And some have their own theories for the causes."

Were you expecting otherwise? Is it possible any recovery from the post-Samarra-bombing spike in violence could be anything but shaky? The top American commanders readily acknowledge fragility in the situation.

As for those some who have their own "theories", I'd advise you to apply to them your own shrewd observation from your last post:
"But the truth is that there are so many conflicting interests that no one state, not least America, can claim even a small sway on the processes affecting Iraq."

I concede, as most do, that the present lull in violence may be illusory and temporary. But it is a chance where eight months ago there was none. That makes it a positive development, for sure. But still, just a chance.
0023 | 12.22.07 - 3:57 pm | #