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As the SOFA negotiations near their deadline, the Iraqi Cabinet is seeking further amendments to the SOFA draft regarding the duration of U.S. troop presence. For the latest on these complex negotiations, read:
Agence France Presse- US, Iraq will get security pact 'worked out', Rice says
Asia Times - Details of Iraq pact reveal US debacle, by Gareth Porter
The Status of Forces Agreement has recently reached a new phase as Iraqi and U.S. negotiators discuss the final details. However, internal politics and foreign interference continue to put the agreement's future into question.
Recent security developments in Iraq highlight the killing of Al Qaeda in Iraq's second in command as well as ongoing operations against terrorists and insurgents around the country. For more information on these developments, check out the following stories:
LA Times - Al Qaeda in Iraq's No. 2 commander is dead, U.S. reports, by Ned Parker and Saif Hameed
Maliki's use of military force in Diyala Province to achieve his national political agenda.
As the baton is passed to a new commander and a new president, there is still delicate work to be done.
Iranian-backed Special Groups in Iraq launched an offensive that cost them Basra and Sadr City but have regenerated in order to disrupt the Iraqi government with assassinations and spectacular attacks
This Iraq Report describes the fight for Diyala Province from late 2007 through the middle of 2008.
During a panel presentation at the American Enterprise Institute, Kimberly Kagan discusses her recent trip to Iraq and the country's political progress.
The conflict over power in Iraq has transformed from a military to a political struggle.
The most important objectives of the surge have been accomplished in Iraq. We have an extraordinary – but fleeting – opportunity to advance America's security and regional stability.