1. What is the latest indication that security in Iraq is improving?

2. With the handover of Babil, how many of Iraq's 18 provinces are now under the direct security control of the Baghdad government?

3. What two events are credited for the fall in violence in Babil?

4. Define "mandate" and "deployment" as used in paragraph 8.

5. a) What would a SOFA authorize the U.S. military to do?
b) What guarantee does the Iraqi government want the U.S. to make before agreeing to a SOFA?

6. Are you inspired by this article? Explain your answer.