Jul 4th, 2008 · The U.S. military touts the relative security of Anbar — once one of the most restive areas in Iraq — after working with tribal sheiks to combat al-Qaida. But the rise of the sheiks has set off a new political conflict, and tensions still simmer beneath the surface. Last week, a bomber blew himself up at a sheiks council meeting, highlighting the problems of infiltration in the ranks.
Jul 1st, 2008 · Anbar is Iraq's largest province and was considered the most dangerous until a year ago. It's the 10th province to be handed back to the Iraqi government. Maj. Gen. John Kelly, the commander of Multinational Forces-West in Iraq, talks about the handover of security operations to Iraqi control.
Dec 16th, 2007 · In Iraq's southern province of Basra on Sunday, British troops formally handed over security to Iraqi soldiers and police. Western and Iraqi officials welcomed the handover as a sign that Iraq is taking care of its own problems. But there are signs that Basra is not all safe and serene.
Feb 13th, 2006 · Gen. John Abizaid, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, says he expects this year will mark a major change as Iraqi forces assume the burden of the conflict. The United States expects to cut troop levels in Iraq this year, but Abizaid is making no absolute promises.