The reported coalescing of insurgent groups and Iraqi nationalist fighters into the Zarqawi network in Iraq will likely enhance the network?s operational competency, capabilities, and lethality. The network is further bolstered by the infusion of guerrilla operational knowledge and experiences of Hussein regime intelligence and military personnel fighting and commanding elements of the insurgency.

As the LA Times article notes, the coalescing of these groups may have come as a result of a number of Zarqawi?s lieutenants being ?rolled up? in recent months (see this WAR Report). Such a victory by the Coalition possibly necessitates a greater reliance on what is likely to be significant operational planning and command experience among the regime’s military and intelligence operatives, as well as an intimate understanding of Iraq, its society, and methods and strategies of coercion, oppression, and state terrorism refined during Hussein’s reign. The infusion of Iraqi nationalist fighters and former regime operatives may serve to legitimize the religious-political agenda and operations of Zarqawi?s network. It may also draw disaffected Sunnis and others to insurgent causes.