Now is a good time to reflect on the fate of the Iraqi opposition, in light of the visible resistance by Iraqis to the coalition invasion. Given this, how seriously can one consider (a) a postwar opposition-based government that will have any measure of popularity? And (b) if the U.S. recognizes this, how would its presumed alternative, a military government, fare?

Will the U.S., in order to cut this Gordian Knot do what several opposition figures dread: establish a military government, but use Baath Party administrators to run it?

The London-based daily Al-Sharq al-Awsat reported yesterday that retired U.S. General Jay Garner, who will head the civil administration in Iraq, is still cooling his heals in Kuwait. Bet he's wondering what to do next.