I think there was the longest period when the Iraqis (case in point: the residents of Ramadi) just didn’t realise what the fanatics of Al-Queda were like.
During that period I’m not sure it would have been helpful having more troops around. Maybe it was better that people had the animal brutality of Al-Queda shoved in their faces, so that they could compare and contrast with the Coalition forces. After all the horror they went through few in Anbar province would want Al-Queda back.
Strictly armchair general here though. I’m ready to be contradicted. An immediate 1 to 10 ratio of troops to citizens (as in post-war Germany) obviously worked there.
‘zackly.
If you look at my “America’s Victories: Why the U.S. Wins Wars,” it’s pretty clear statistically why the “surge worked.” We had already SLAUGHTERED al-Qaeda in the previous three years. Instead of front-line guys, we are now fighting the 2d and 3d teamers, and many, many fewer of them.