Abstract:
One idea being floated for resolving the conflict in Iraq is for the United States to get help in doing this from Iran and Syria -- two governments that Washington has long had hostile relations with. It is highly doubtful this will work. Everyone knows, including Tehran and Damascus, that America's military effort in Iraq is floundering. Indeed, part of the reason it is doing so is that Tehran and Damascus are aiding (or allowing aid to flow to) various Iraqi insurgent groups. Iran and Syria could indeed cut back on this and take other steps to relieve America's burden in Iraq. Both, though, will demand a high price for helping America.
