top news - "iraq"

Former Bush spokesman Scott McClellan -- whose book blasts the administration on issues from Hurricane Katrina to the iraq war -- declined to say Friday whether he still considers himself a republican. But he did say he supports parts of Sen. Barack Obama's agenda and that he'd be 'glad' to share his views on the White House if asked to testify before Congress.

GREAT FALLS, Montana (Reuters) - Democrat Barack Obama squabbled with republican john mccain on Friday over the number of U.S. troops in iraq in the latest disagreement between the two likely presidential nominees over the unpopular war.

Tens of thousands rallied in several cities Friday against a proposed U.S.-Iraqi security agreement.

Obama campaign blasts McCain for saying U.S. troops at pre-surge levels in iraq.

Balad, iraq (AP) - school teacher Raad Mohammed Mahdi used to take on another role after classes: foot soldier in the Sunni insurgency north of Baghdad.

Opposition is growing among Iraqi politicians to a long-term agreement for a continued troop presence in iraq. The current U.N. mandate permitting a U.S. presence runs out this year. U.S. officials are seeking a long-term accord.

In a town outside Baghdad, the U.S. Army is recruiting women to help ward off suicide bombers. Meet the 'Daughters of iraq'

Iraq may have received all the sympathy this week following the drama over the on again, off again FIFA-imposed suspension, but the last semblance of friendliness has quickly disappeared after Socceroos coach Pim Verbeek yesterday implored the match officials to stop the Iraqis from diving and faking injuries.

IT has been a week where it has been more about going than coming. Peter Holmes a Court is gone, at least as chairman of South Sydney. The club might go as well. Parramatta's chief executive Denis Fitzgerald says the $4 million NRL salary cap should go, too. iraq came to play the Socceroos but nearly went home without kicking a ball in anger.

Former Bush Administration Press Secretary Scott McClellan's memoir is highly critical of the Administration, specifically its handling of the iraq War. NPR News Analyst Juan Williams discusses this and Senator John McCain's upcoming trip to Baghdad with host Madeleine Brand.