Two paragraphs from CNN

The absurdity would be funny if it weren't so tragic:

Iraqi interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi acknowledged an escalation of violence as the January 30 elections approach. But he vowed not to delay them and said "there will be no safe haven" for "terrorists in Iraq."

Or for anyone else, apparently.

Iraqi and U.S. officials have long warned there could be a spike in violence before the elections, as insurgents tried to disrupt them. They have worked to convince many Iraqis that it will be safe to vote.

Right. Telling them that there will be a spike in violence ought to convince them!