Mean Streets

Salman has seen security improve in the capital over the recent months, bringing "order to the streets." The turf he can safely cover delivering fares is expanding. But he believes conditions were better in Saddam's time. Citing the scarce power and water at home—utilities he sees as "rights"—he says he can see why some fight the American troops. Nor does he see much downside in a quick U.S. withdrawal. "We'll have some tensions, but the strong ones would get everything in their hands," he postulates. "There should be somebody who is very strong, who can control everything."

© 2008