What would you expect after a horrific spate of bombings in Iraq besides Nouri al-Maliki assuring everyone that “we are close to the point where we can declare victory against al Qaida … and its allies.” From the safety of Brussels, no less.

But look, if Maliki declares victory, can we go home? Or does victory mean we get the prize of staying in Iraq forever? I forget whether Thursday is “victory-means-staying-forever” day or “failure-means-staying-forever” day.