..... finally a post attempts to swing back the thread on topic LOL, thanks 6pak. OK, chums- My secondary question from post one- if I remember correctly;

What are your solutions for Iraq? No parroting what the Repubs harp or the dems ponder either; be bold and give specifics, assessments, and/or what you realistically envision transpiring in that country/surrounding area.
Oddly enough I started a thread several days ago regarding this question and it got zippo interest- I think perhaps that's saying something that reflects how decision makers of the crisis seem at a loss to put forth a solution- in the meantime civilians, soldiers, security forces are getting mowed down while the terrorists freely play around in this void of indecision. Speak-up folks> last call!!!

I think that in Iraq, what has been done cannot be undone. Bush and company had no plan for the post-invasion period, and totally blew whatever chance there was for a smooth transition to a democratic and secular government. I don't think the US has the ability, at this point, to "solve" the Iraqi problem, no matter who is in power.
I think the current chaos and bloodshed will continue as long as US troops are in the country. After they (eventually) leave, there will be more chaos, bloodshed, and possible civil war. I wouldn't trust anyone who claimed to know how long the instability will last, and who will be in charge once the dust finally settles. But I'll bet you a dollar Iraq won't end up as a secular democracy.