Revisiting the U.S. Approach in Iraq

The U.S. actions in Iraq have never been free from criticism. However, this piece by Matthew Sherman offers a careful analysis of past U.S. actions and makes several suggestions on how to proceed with this complicated situation. Sherman argues "for a more tailored approach to U.S. assistance in Iraq in light of shifting political realities." Since 2003 Sherman has served for more than three years in Iraq, including working with the Iraqi Ministry of Interior and also as the political adviser to the First Cavalry Division (the American military unit in charge of operations throughout Baghdad). He is currently a principal with SCI Consulting and an adjunct with the RAND Corporation. Here's the full memo: sherman-the-american-interest.pdf