An Amazing Cinderella Story

by publius Associated Press, “Rockets Take Commanding Lead; Analysts Say Victory Over Celtics Likely Inevitable” The Rockets’ Shane Battier opened the game with a three-pointer, all but assuring victory in the much-anticipated clash with the Boston Celtics, who currently boast the best record in the Eastern Conference. Battier’s shot put the Rockets ahead 3-0, with … Read more

Farewell To A Giant

by hilzoy I note with chagrin that Thomas at RedState has decided to retire from RedState, and that he has chosen to thank us as he leaves: “Fifth, I want to take a moment to thank Markos Moulitsas Zuniga, Duncan Black, Oliver Willis, the whole crew at Obsidian Wings, and the writers of any other … Read more

Iraq: Situation stabilizing

by Charles

[Updated at the end]

Last January, I wrote that I would give the surge ’til November (later changed to year end), and if there was no discernible progress, I would opt for Plan B, which would be an orderly, phased unilateral withdrawal of American forces.  From what I’ve seen, I think we should stick with Plan A.  December was another month of low civilian casualties…

Civcasidec2007

…and the three month moving average also illustrates this favorable trend.

And military casualties are following that trend as well.

The improved security situation has contributed to higher oil production.  Also surging is confidence in the Iraq economy.  Last month, in its report to Congress, the Dept. of Defense summarized the situation, and following are some excerpts:

More below the fold…

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