Nobody knows what's going on in Iraq.

Why has violence gone down in Iraq? The US says it's "the surge" and the efforts of the enlisted tribal groups. The Iraqi government says it's the Iranians "helping rein in" the militias. The Iranians say it's a stronger Iraqi government.

It's funny, you'd think a "success" would claim lots of authors, not a bunch of people blaming each other.

Maybe that's because they all know that the "success" isn't really there.

While violence levels are declining in Iraq, there has been little progress in political reconciliation due to sectarian divides and lack of trust, Iraq's government spokesman said on Saturday.

Oh, and regarding the oil law my president said was about to be passed so many months ago, the Iraqis are now talking about abandoning it and trying to return to the original February text.

Also a mention that the Iraqi government is offering to provide buses from Syria for those who want to return.

Later: Anonymous points to this: (UPI) The U.S. State Department says an oil law implemented under Saddam Hussein is good enough for Iraq’s national government to sign oil deals, though it would prefer a new national law -- mired in controversy and far from approved -- to be used instead.