The American occupation of Iraq: perspectives. pp .63 - 75.

This article first reviews the evolving debate in the United States about the American invasion and occupation in Iraq. It reports that opposition to the country's involvement in Iraq is growing and that the american public, and to some extent American leaders, are increasingly divided about the conduct and consequences of tghe xar. The article then presents findings from a large and representative public opinion survey carried out in Iraqs in November and December 2004. It reports that opposition to the American occupation is intense among Iraqis; that most Iraqis are more concerned with forging and strengthening an iraqi national identity that with protecting the identity and interest of their ethno-religious communities. And that opposition to the American presence in Iraqi is most pronounced among Iraqis who attach greater importance to a national identity. The article concludes with a discussion of the transitions in both American and Iraqi politics that may occur during 2006.