More Evidence Of A "Failed" Policy

Several "insurgent" groups are apparently ready to talk peace with the US and the Iraqi government.

Residents of Anbar province say four insurgent groups are considering naming a representative to spell out their conditions to Iraqi President Jalal Talabani.

The residents, who have contacts with the insurgents, spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.The four groups include the Islamic Army of Iraq, the 1920 Revolution Brigade, the Mujahedeen Army and al-Jamea Brigades. But the country's most feared terror organization, al-Qaida in Iraq, is not among them.

Go figure. I wonder why they'd want to do that when they're "winning?"

I don't think we should leave it at that, though. The groups, sans al Qaeda in Iraq if this is indeed true, are beginning to sense that participation in the governing of Iraq is a better fate for them than continually risking firefights and death with Marines and the Iraqi Army. Walking in the sunshine is better than scurrying in the shadows like rats. They are also most probably not seeing their own endpoint in sight, whatever it is. War fatigues both sides. One thing to remember, and that many seem to forget, is that it fatigues the losing side more.

This may be why there's such a clamor for withdrawal, or an exit strategy. The longer this goes, the more it looks as if the Bush strategy may work. And we can't have that, can we?

(Note: the link above will probably disappear - I'll find a more permanent link shortly)
(Note: link changed - hopefully this one will be relatively permanent)

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Thanks for the link!

The Paladin Blog