Some interesting changes in tactics
Apparently, the Baathists and/or Islamists are moving from military confrontation into terrorism. Their disregard for Iraqi citizens has become obvious. I think this show increasing desperation.
Another interesting fact mentioned in an article I can't relocate right now:
The going rate for payment to recruit a guerilla fighter to the Baathist cause has gone from $500 to $5000. I find this encouraging, from a market perspective.