The Current Occupant still doesn't get it. More troops are not the answer; they are, in fact, part of the problem. Despite our good intentions, we are considered the enemy. People don't like people who invade and occupy their country. And when we intervene in a civil war we don't understand, speaking a language they don't understand, it is not surprising we become targets.
There is something strange about expecting violence to bring peace. Think about northern Ireland. After decades of violence, the way to peace was through dialog, discussion, and power sharing.
The Current Occupant doesn't do "dialog, discussion, and power sharing". Of late he appears to "listen" a bit. But half hearted information gathering is not an exchange of ideas likely to mature into consensus. It is a one way street lacking interaction and depth.
The way out of Iraq is through a surge in diplomacy, an escalation in dialog with countries in the region. Focusing on troops strength is so George Bush. Even the promise of reconstruction is useless without diplomatic/political developments.
If I were the Current Occupant, I'd ditch the ineffective Condi Rice and I'd commission James Baker to take charge. I'd admit my ignorance and stay out of the process.