01-20-2007, 07:52 PM
It is unlikely that the increase in the US troop strength is going to change the situation in Iraq. The need of the hour is to bring the Shea and the Sunni population together and for that a dominant role needs to be played by Iran and Syria who have much more influence than the United States in Iraq. The US Force is generally conceived as an invading force by the local population except those who were earlier in exile and came back along with the Allied forces. Given such a narrow popular base, the United States or any Government functioning under its patronage is not expected to command much popular respect amongst the masses. Whether we like it or not the religious leaders of both the important sects and the Governments of the neighboring countries are perhaps in the best position to help in the restoration of peace and normalcy in Iraq. However, as of now the United States is in no mood to seek the good offices of Styria and Iraq in the matter.