[Tactical]

We can't go into an area, secure it, clean it up and the leave, expecting it to remain free of weapons and militia members. We need to handle it like we finally did Falusia (sp?). Take control of the entire city, and then clean it up, and remain in control on that city, until the locals are ready to provide security on their own.

We arrest or kill a few militia members and more take their place. It's like killing cockroaches. There's 10 more hidden somewhere for every 1 you kill. So secure the city, search and raid every inch of it and turn over a clean city to the locals. If it takes 30,000 troops to do that, then do it. Quit messing around. Problems won't go away unless you confront them head on and stop them.

[JackHawk]

I couldn't agree more. Baghdad should be placed under martial law,given 30 days. No vehicles move unless they carry food or medical essentials & those must be inspected before entering. All weapons must be surrendered. Any one seen with weapons who is not in uniform is shot on the spot. Any one found in uniform who is not a member of the coalition or Iraq military will be shot. Security is what's needed now not democracy. The people need to understand that democracy is earned. If you know your neighbor has weapons & you fail to turn them in, You are as guilty as them & should be held to account. If it doesn't work in 30 days, then 60, then 90. Whatever, this city must be controlled!

[ichabod1]

There's 10 more hidden somewhere for every 1 you kill.

I've got an idea for that. ID cards, to be worn around the neck, for all males of military age. Then if you catch one without his ID, he's dead meat.