But what if the Iraqis want the Iranians there?

Bush's plan is to crack down on the Iranians who are "destabilizing" Iraq. I know I keep repeating this, but what if the Iraqis want them there?

The Iraqi government called Sunday for the release of five Iranian officials accused by the U.S. military of being linked to an organization that provides weapons to Iraqi militants and supports violence against U.S. troops.

The US policy appears to be to try and blunt Iranian political influence through the use of force.

Administration officials say the goal is limited to preventing Iranians from aiding in attacks on American and Iraqi forces inside Iraq. But in recent interviews and public statements, senior members of the Bush administration have made it clear that their agenda goes significantly further, toward foiling Iran’s dream of emerging as the greatest power in the Middle East.

The problem is that the Shia and Kurds are considering two offers, not just one, and right now, the Iranian plan looks alot more attractive to them than the US plan.

The administration now views Iraq as a war of influence against Iran.

(With Iran being a neighbor with strong ties into the dominant Shia groups, how would you ever "win" that conflict?)