The only error I can see is expecting the Iraqis to stand up sooner than they were able. We have no idea what it’s like to live for generations under a brutal dictator. It’s no wonder this mistake was made. Further, the Dems don’t have clean hands here either. They were the ones constantly using the “occupation” word, harping about “prison abuse” photos and inferring that the new boss was just like the old boss. It’s no wonder, American troops were restrained and Iraqis were pushed forward earlier than they were ready.
Aside from that, it is specious to assume that war goes according to plan and can just be managed. That's just a bunch of lawyerly blather which is disconnected from reality. They don't have a clue about management.