So much for the claim that the Iraq government is in charge of things, and the US and co are just there to help out, when the Iraqis have to "lobby" for these people to be released. And, so far, lobby unsuccesfully.

Here is todays's front page story from the Independent: The botched US raid that led to the hostage crisis

Once again the Cockburn Principle applies, as expressed by the late Claude Cockburn, who advised anyone listening to a politician (or to anyone speaking on behalf of a politician) to always be sure to ask themselves "Why is this lying bastard lying to me?".