"Quantum shift"

Recently, it seems as if every day brings a new positive report. Another example --

The Iraqi resistance has peaked and is 'turning in on itself', according to recent intelligence reports from Baghdad received by Middle Eastern intelligence agencies.

The reports are the most optimistic for several months and reflect analysts' sense that recent elections in Iraq marked a 'quantum shift'. They will boost the government in the run-up to the expected general election in May.

Meanwhile, Robert Novak offers his updated speculation that substantial troop withdrawals will begin this year. When Novak first raised that idea in September 2004, it was based on his allegedly informed speculation that Rice would advise Bush to cut and run and "would end the neo-conservative dream of building democracy in the Arab world." His current speculation seems much more plausible, if only because by all reports the insurgency is losing strength and the capabilities of the Iraqi police and army increase daily.