Shorter Tom Friedman

Karl Rove should run the Ba'ath Party campaign?

A sophisticated U.S. approach that uses both sticks and carrots with Syria, Iran and America's Arab allies could still shape a decent election in Iraq, but we have to get in gear right now, and be smart. Does this administration have anyone who knows how to play this game? Attention: Iraq is having an election. Elections are rare in this part of the world, so when they happen, everyone in the neighborhood tries to vote. We need to make sure our friends do as well.

Or, better yet, send the Republican Party of Ohio over there.

Oh, and what friends are those?