And conversely - why are some people so happy with the state of Iraq when an atrocity the scale of that in London a week ago is happeneing EVERY SINGLE DAY.

Well, if someone says "I am happy with the state of Iraq", take it up with them. But if someone merely points out something positive, just a little bit of good news, don't misrepresent their position as "Iraq is as peaceful as a church picnic on a Sunday afternoon".

I agree - there is SOME progress in Iraq

There, that wasn't so hard, was it?

but every day a new suicide bomber, every day more women and children killed.

Yes, it is tragic.

I'm sick to death of people saying that it's all lovely out there.

Well, take that up with those people - but don't put words in their mouths. I never said it was "all lovely out there" and neither did Tom.

It's so typical - you point out something positive and, oh no, must be trying to deny reality, ignoring the hardships and setbacks, doing a Monica on Bush etc.

It's not - it's a complete disaster zone.

Oh brother, you've done it again. No, North Korea could be classified as a complete disaster zone. What next, Iraq is a gulag?