President Bush today confirmed exactly what my analysis predicted on or before 7/28/2003 under the article titled Mission: Difficult (link to analysis) referencing to that these groups will start to coalesce. As a matter of fact, as time goes on, what was once loosely formed groups, will become more united against what they perceive a common cause, even though they may have different points of view. Which is the same as saying, your enemy is my enemy. 

I think, the key to unlocking the intelligence problems is to exploit the differences that exist between the different factions in Iraq. For instance, the animosity that exist between the Shi'ites and the Sunni populations, they could ID and target the former regime members.. Surely, there are many survivors and members of deceased relatives that have unforgiving memories and grudges. They would be the best bird dogs around. 

A situation like the present one does have the potential to spread to other parts of Iraq if not countered. Time is of the essence. Iraqi populations needs to be reassured of American resolve to follow through. Perhaps some sort of public relations campaign,  telling them we would like to turn back their country over to them as soon as possible may settle some nerves and gain a little more support. But also at the same time conveying that we need their help in achieving our joint objectives more quickly through more cooperation.. 

Dissenters in this country are really doing a disservice to the country, to our active service members in Iraq and to the Iraqi people. Every reasonable person wants to achieve our objectives as quickly as possible. Why make it any harder than what it has to be? Recent reports indicate that our intelligence services in Iraq are having a difficult time earning the confidence and trust of the Iraqi people. The short answer would be Iraqi survival instincts. TW 11/12/2003