NEW BLOOD, ANCIENT WOUNDS

Insurgents like Harith claim they're fighting for better government. When police searched his house last fall, he says, 300,000 dinars (about $200) vanished. "The new Iraq should not be built by traitors and thieves," he says. The insurgency is about patriotism, not sectarianism, he insists: "Only people loyal to Iraq, not to a foreign power, should rule here. No matter if they will be Sunnis, Shiites or Kurds." If Iraq's new government can find a way to earn his confidence, thousands of American soldiers will be more than ready to pack their bags.

WITH MOHAMMAD HAYDAR IN BAGHDAD

© 2005