Many observers see the initiative as perhaps the last chance to save Iraq from an all-out civil war. While al-Maliki must be afforded time to implement his plan, time is of the essence.

To be sure, al-Maliki must make progress within the next two months. If he is able to bring some insurgent groups to the table before a UN-sponsored national-reconciliation conference takes place later this summer, he will be in a stronger position vis-a-vis more resistant insurgent groups who have been reluctant until now to enter into talks.
 

Radio Free Liberty