I think this *was* somewhat of a surprise to the admin. The Iraqis have been politicking with a sophistication that none of us knew they had. What that means is that they will be able to govern their country earlier and more calmly than we ever could have hoped.
Now is the time for the Iraqis to come out and say to the world that they will not tolerate terrorism or any organization or government that is committed to destroying their chance at democracy.
Then put 50,000 US troops on the Syrian border.