THE MORE STATURE THE BETTER:

Iraqi prime minister asserts independence, gains stature: Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki ordered the dismantling of US checkpoints in Bagdhad, prompting boasts from Shiite militants. (Scott Peterson, 11/02/06, The Christian Science Monitor)

Shiites from the crowded Baghdad district of Sadr City are reveling in what they deem their "victory" over American forces after Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki on Tuesday ordered the dismantling of US and Iraqi checkpoints surrounding the area. [...]

US forces have rubbed increasingly against Sadr's militia in recent months, with friction turning to gunfights at times. And the Mahdi Army, while winning kudos among many Shiites for defending them against Sunni insurgent attack, is also believed to be behind some sectarian killings that are leaving more than 2,500 Iraqis dead each month.