The relationship between the provincial governments and the central government in Iraq is complex; the issues involved relate to the core insecurities of each of the major political factions in Iraq.
Jaysh al-Mahdi, or JAM, is the militia of the Sadrist Trend.
Tribal movements and Sons of Iraq (SoI) groups have been a critical partner for coalition forces in stabilizing Iraq from 2006 onwards.
As US forces in Iraq transition from a combat role to an overwatch role, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) will take on an increasingly important role in the provision of security for the Iraqi people.
Iran has been actively involved in supporting Shi'a militias and encouraging sectarian violence in Iraq since the invasion of 2003.
Although one of the smallest factions in the Sunni insurgency, Al-Qaeda in Iraq may be one of the most deadly. US operations have put tremendous pressure on the group.
