The Lessons of Najaf.

Examines the lessons of Najaf, where the Iraqi interim government is being tested on how it deals with rebellion from within its own people. How the standoff with Muqtaqda al-Sadr's Mahdi Army, which is hiding in a sacred Shiite shrine, is forcing the interim government led by Ayad Allawi to show its strength without inciting all Shiites; Conflicting messages sent by al-Sadr which keep the battle going; Belief that the U.S. missed its opportunity to crush militants in the country when it would have been easier to do so; Why it is a no-win situation for coalition forces and the Iraqi people.