Refresh my memory. Didn't we have an occupation force 'helping' us in the formation of what government they thought was best during the years preceding our independence? How'd that work out for 'em?
Well, the Brits have been good allies this last century, so bread cast upon the waters does come back after many days.
My point is the start of the Republic was not a smooth road with no bumps. And we had a tradition of democracy unlike the Iraqis. Also we weren't coming out of the rule of a dictator like Saddam who basically destroyed that country.
Will they be successful? I don't know, but I think they just might. And if they are...oh boy NOTHING in that part of the world will ever be the same.