News and Analysis Update (8/26/06)

Preparing excuses for the next escalation?

• Is Iran Really Controlling Militias in Iraq? Iraqi politicians say the U.S. claims of a clear link between Shi’ite militias and Tehran is pure scapegoating. And Tehran-bashing could further complicate U.S. efforts to end the civil war (Time/CNN)

The entire story of the captivity of Jill Carroll, in her own words, is now available:

• The Jill Carroll Story (Christian Science Monitor)

Iraqi attempt to reverse sectarian violence:

• Sunni Female MP Freed as Tribal Chiefs Vow for Peace (AFP)

ImadadDean