Maliki's "Plan B"

On CNN last night, fantastic NYTimes war reporter John "I don't cut my hair in theater" Burns, made the point that Maliki will not seriously disarm or degrade the Shia militias because they are his "plan B."

If the US were to withdraw, Maliki wants the Shia militias in place and intact to act as his fighting force in the civil war.

So, as you hear about Maliki allowing attacks on the militias, read the articles deeply, because I would guess that it's going to be more like a drug baron giving up a few of his problematic underlings to keep the rest of the operation intact.

Also: On CNN last night, this report outlining the multitude of violent Iraqi groups. It's good.