[DoughtyOne]

If the Iraqi populace' ability to disrupt governance is not brought under control, the new Iraqi leadership hasn't a chance of being successful. When that new government is toppled, those that replace it will most certainly work with terrorists hell bent on destroying the United States and it's interests.

I know that you want the Iraqi populace to be able to defend themselves from the likes of the next Hussein. So do I. But you'll have to acknowledge that these same guns and explosives in the hands of the populace a year and one half ago, did not protect them one iota.

The best hope for the Iraqi people is a stable viable government. That will NEVER happen with the old members of the Republican Guard armed to the teeth.

[BJClinton]

I tend to agree. But disarming all, or even most, Iraqis would lead to a blood-bath I doubt Americans could stomach. I think Bush is on the right track, we need to get a majority of Iraqis behind their new government and then leave. Without "the Great Satan" to rally his people around, this young fire-brand (Sadr) will have much less clout. Besides, I'm pretty sure he's an Iranian ally and as they fall so shall he.

[GraniteStateConservative]

It would personally protect them more than not being armed. Sure, they'd be better able to protect themselves with nukes and missile batteries and helicopters and chemical weapons and such, but what they have is better than nothing. I'd want whatever I could get my hands on to protect my home and family. I'd at least be able to take out some opposition in the process.