From what I hear the Iraqi forces are having a tough time, of course this is from MSM news sources.
That's an important caveat. Reading around the net, I think this may not be going too badly, although it is a tough fight. We're using air power and our trainers, the Brits came in with their artillery, and the Iraqis are not backing down. If Maliki doesn't lose his nerve, I am hopeful.