I saw a program on TV last night.
The Italian representative in Iraq (I forgot his function) had resigned after the Italian soldiers were killed.

His arguments were these:
Our forces and the UK soldiers are deployed in safer areas where Shi-ites are a majority.
We should have local elections now; we shouldn't wait, we can organize them now in the towns where there is law and order and progress.
But there are not even local elections organized as of yet.

The guests of the show said local elections must indeed be organized before general elections.

Another point: the Iraqis want jobs, they want better economical conditions , even more than security.
It won't be possible to do the same everywhere at the same time.
But it must start.

The UN Blue helmets could be deployed at the borders of those 3 regions. once they are internationally recognized. But when will that be is another matter.