The ceasefire in Fallujah has been extended indefinitely, while joint patrols of marines and Iraqi police have begun. The Iraqi police, many of whom fought the various partisan and political gangs in the city, are key to restoring peace to the city. Most people in Fallujah gain nothing from the gangs but the chance of death or injury from the gang violence. The gangs want to continue doing what they want (which is usually some criminal scam) in the town. Most people in Fallujah would prefer some form of law and order.

In Najaf, American troops are apparently going to begin to move into the city to arrest the al Sadr militia. The Shia clerical leadership have apparently been unable to convince al Sadr to surrender, and are not willing to back al Sadrs radical view of Iraqs future.