Sadr close to striking a deal

[hang a left]

Thursday 15 April 2004, 0:32 Makka Time, 21:32 GMT

http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/88A40E69-6302-4992-9929-7E8C1F90D663.htm

The Shia cleric has led an uprising against the occupation


A deal between Iraq's rebellious Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr and the US-led occupation authorities is said to be imminent.


Abd al-karim al-Anzi, an envoy appointed by Sadr to lead negotiations aimed at averting bloodshed in the holy city of Najaf, said on Wednesday that a deal could be struck in the next 24 hours.

"I expect a solution within the next 24 hours. I met US officials today and the talks were extremely positive," Anzi said.

There was no immediate comment from the occupation authorities, who have threatened to either kill or capture Sadr.

edit for link and too many paragraphs

[cliss]

1. I wonder what the US's bargaining position would be?

Negotiations usually involve two parties who are very far apart. In the case of the US versus Al-Sadr, shall we say a universe. Al-Sadr demanded that the US vacate the cities without delay. He was willing to die for his stance, a pretty powerful arguing point.

Next, the two parties try to come closer together in their demands. We know the US is not going anywhere. So what could they possibly offer Al-Sadr that he would accept?

Money? Stock options? Maybe a tank of his own.

[Minstrel Boy]

2. Has Poppy's seat on the Carlyle board been filled yet?

"John Major's a helluva guy. He brings donuts."