What Obama didn't see in Iraq

While United States President Barack Obama's surprise visit hogged the headlines, more important news was circling Baghdad's streets. A reduced sentence for a shoe-thrower sparked jubilation, while moves to bring exiled Ba'athists into the political fold finally hold promise. A bigger problem for the Nuri al-Maliki government lies in the Awakening Councils, as his attempts to quash them may have triggered Monday's six deadly car bombs. - Sami Moubayed (Apr 8,'09)

THE ROVING EYE
The president makes a victory lap
President Obama's arrival in Baghdad for a gated-community photo op - without so much as a glimpse of real-life, messy, dangerous Red Zone Baghdad - made it shockingly clear that Obama, for all his charisma, is still the president of an occupying power. He says his presence can help resolve issues. His rhetorical change is more than welcome. But actions do speak louder than words. - Pepe Escobar (Apr 8,'09)