Iraq update September 22. 2007

Supposedly, at least according to some of the war critics, The Anbar Salvation Council model won't be successful if tried in other provinces and definitely won't work in Baghdad.

Bad news for them as Multi-National Forces, Iraq reports ‘Grassroots’ will be catalyst for change in Baghdad, commander says

• BAGHDAD — The most encouraging recent development in Baghdad is the willingness of citizens to step forward and partner with Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) in defeating terrorism, the U.S. commander in charge of Coalition forces in the city said today.

Also from Multi-National Forces, Iraq a report from the province of Samarra called Making Progress: Unit’s relationship with Iraqi locals pays off

• SAMARRA — As the much-anticipated Iraq report was released this month, one unit is finding that they are indeed making progress.

  An Iraqi teenager who was an informant for the Coalition force in Samarra was kidnapped by insurgents and held for several days. He was beaten and moved to different locations. The teen managed to escape, ignoring the death threats of his captors for talking with Coalition forces, and after his escape, he went straight to Forward Operating Base Brassfield-Mora to ask for help.

From Pat Dollard - A Top U.S. General In Iraq Blames Public’s Antiwar Views On The Media

• NEW YORK Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, commander of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, said Thursday, back in the U.S. on leave at Fort Stewart, that the war in Iraq is “a winnable mission” if the the media would only cooperate.

Also from Pat Dollard - Huge Conspiracy In Abu Risha Slaying

• BAGHDAD - The U.S. military on Saturday confirmed the arrests of 25 people linked to the assassination of the leader of the U.S.-backed revolt by Sunni Arab tribesmen in the western Anbar province against al-Qaida in Iraq.

  The suspects, who include the head of the security detail that was supposed to protect Sheik Abdul-Sattar Abu Risha, killed in a bombing Sept. 13, were detained by Iraqi police, Lt. Col. Jubeir Rashid said, an Iraqi police officer in Anbar.