ABSTRACT
I n 2007, three factors gradually turned around the deteriorating situation—at least temporarily: a surge of US military forces, the willingness of the Arab Sunni opposition to engage in the political process with the central government in Baghdad, and further marginalization of the Sadrists. These steps allowed the new Maliki government to strengthen its position and that of the central government, at least in Arab areas, for a short period, from 2008 to 2011. Increased stability allowed for some economic development, including new oil concessions, and an agreement with the United States to with-draw its forces by the end of 2011.
