[mlocher]

In many cases they actually assist the terrorist. It's the same way in some inner-city ghettos.

I hear you! I cut a little more slack though. In many cases the "innocent civilians" are convinced that if they cooperate with the US, they are facing a death sentence at home. Having said that, this fact should in no way hinder the military from doing its job of protecting me.

[allmendream]

That is why a timetable for withdrawal IS, as Gov. Palin said, “a white flag of surrender”.

We get the cooperation of the locals when they figure we are there to stay, we are stronger, and it is the terrorists who are under death sentence, not them if they help or even work for or with the Americans or the Iraqi government.