Contrary to popular perception, the war is not going badly for the allies. Yes, there are casualties. But unlike the Gulf War, the Iraqi regime this time is fighting for its very survival, and to expect its minions, who effectively have their backs against the wall, to just surrender, is unrealistic. They have nowhere to go.
Nevertheless, The outcomes of two major events of the day have fallen squarely on the side
of the allies. First a popular uprising in Basra lent credence to the administration's characterization of thiswar as one of liberation, not conquest. In addition, from a military point of view, it promises to considerably enable the allied effort of gaining control of Basra.
Further north, the largest battle in the war so far -- fought near Najaf against the Republican Guard -- resulted in a decisive allied tactical victory which left approximately five hundred Iraqi soldiers dead. The outcome of these two events underscore the essential advantages that lie on the Allies' side. When it comes to major engagements of conventional units in the field -- the allies will always emerge victorious. They simply dominate their opponents.
In addition, with regard to urban warfare, against irregular units, the Iraqi civilian population IS apparently on the allied side, as witnessed in Basra. This is a fundamental advantage which if manipulated properly will enable victory in the hardest fight of all -- the battle of Baghdad. More on that next time.
11:01:20 PM 
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