Good Enough?

Iraq has not collapsed 7 months after our departure. We have several thousand ex-military there for training and security, but it has not been enough to keep the Iraqi security forces in top form:

The security forces, under attack by gangsters and terrorists using bribes and threats (of murder or kidnaping) are becoming less effective. This has made it possible for Sunni terrorists (al Qaeda and several local groups) to keep operating.

Luckily, we weakened the enemy enough to make this flaw less than fatal--so far.

And I hope that there is enough accountability in the Iraqi system for voters to pressure or punish leaders for failing to provide security and economic growth.

I'm still cautiously optimistic that Iraq will turn out well.