Dozens of armed militias in Iraq are in control of large portions of the country. American troops have made deals with most of these groups to maintain order in their areas. There are still a lot of bandits running loose, as well as individuals and small groups out to take revenge on members of the former government. The family members of men killed by Saddam's Baath party have not forgotten, and with the disappearance of Saddam's police and security forces, vengeance is now possible. Disarming Iraqis may not be possible, but reestablishing police, and more aggressive patrolling by coalition troops, is driving the guns off the street. 

Day by day, more aid, and aid workers arrive. The government ministries are coming back to life and more civil servants are being rehired daily.