The Iraqis aren't fools:

According to a survey by the Psychological Research Centre of Baghdad University, 71.5 per cent of Iraqis questioned thought the American occupation was necessary at least for a while. This compared to 42 per cent of Iraqis in a similar survey by the centre in June.

The report said:"This shows an acceptance of the foreign presence as a temporary solution because of the fear, confusion and absence of law and order following the collapse of the old regime."

By now the majority of peaceful, law-abiding Iraqis should understand not only that America seeks to bring their country to democratic autonomy as quickly as possible, but that the withdrawal of troops from Iraq to other fronts - once Iraq is reasonably secure - is a shared goal, as well. We hear them.

Additionally, heavy offensives against terrorists have far outweighed any disruption of day-to-day activities by the population: according to a Brigadier General in Baghdad, attacks are down 70 percent. While the enemy is still active - after a foiled convoy ambush in Samara, terrorists struck in towns to just the north and south Baghdad - it works in vain, having already lost. American and Iraqi will has only been strengthened by the trials.