The Iraq War
July 10, 2008
The Burke Chair has developed a major update to its comprehensive briefing on key developments in the fighting, drawing on material provided by the Multinational Force- Iraq (MNF-I), the Department of Defense, the Department of State, the GAO, CBO and CRS, the Iraqi government, and other sources. This report provides an objective, nonpartisan perspective on the conflict in Iraq. It describes the current successes and failures in as much detail as possible, and illustrates many of the challenges likely to face Coalition forces in Iraq in the future. While not directly addressing either Senator John McCain or Senator Barak Obama’s positions on the conflict, this report can be used as a neutral basis for evaluating both candidates’ policies.
The full report can be found here.
The briefing surveys sectarian and ethnic trends, progress in political accommodation, developments in the fighting, and trends in casualties. Maps show the steady decline in Al Qa’ida capabilities since mid-2007 and the steady improvement in security in most provinces, but also the broader problems in sectarian and ethnic tensions and conflicts. Polling data developed by ABC shows how Iraqis view these issues by sect and ethnicity.
An overview is provided of the impact of the surge, its successes and failures, and its impact on Iraqi public opinion. There is also an assessment of Iraqi perceptions of US forces, with separate breakouts addressing views of the surge and whether and how long the US should stay.
Data are provided on the trends in Iraqi force development, their funding, and MNF-I assessments of their effectiveness. Maps and charts are also provided on the transfer of given areas to Iraqi security responsibility.
Trend and polling data are provided on developments in the Iraqi economy and the size and impact of aid efforts. These data include analyses of oil exports and export revenues, trends in power generation, and Iraqi attitudes towards the economy and aid. An updated break out is provided of past and current US aid efforts, as well as total aid and Iraqi government expenditures.
This is a the second edition of a working draft report, and it will be steadily updated over time. Suggested additions and corrections will be gratefully received and should be sent to Adam Mausner at amausner@csis.org.
