Iraq remains a violent place, but the trends are encouraging.
U.S. and Iraqi casualties are down sharply. Fewer of the most lethal Iranian-made explosive devices are being used as roadside bombs. In community after community, Sunni groups who were once in league with al-Qaeda have switched sides and are working with the U.S. forces.
On the Shiite side of Iraq’s sectarian chasm, something similar is happening. About 70,000 local, pro-government groups, a bit like neighborhood watch groups, have formed to expose extremist militias, according to Stephen Biddle of the Council on Foreign Relations.
This is encouraging and dovetails with other reports I have been reading. The MSM is not giving much play to the changing situation in Iraq. But there is definitely a growing trend in good news. Its too soon by far to declare victory. But I don’t think it’s too soon to note that the tide may have turned.