Can Iraq set an example for the entire Arab world?

There is much to criticize about how the war in Iraq has been conducted, and the outcome is still, uncertain. But those who suggest that the Iraqi election is just beanbag, and that all we're doing is making the war on terrorism worse as a result of Iraq, are speaking nonsense. There is no single action we could undertake anywhere in the world to reduce the terrorism threat that would have a bigger impact today than a decent outcome in Iraq. What Iraq is now embarking on is the first attempt--ever--by the citizens of a multiethnic, multireligious Arab state to draw up their own social, contract, their own constitution, for how they should share power and resources, protect minority rights, and balance mosque and state. I have no idea whether they will succeed. Much will depend on whether the Shiites want to be a wise and inclusive majority and whether the Sunnis want to be a smart and collaborative minority. There will be a tot of trial, and error. But this is a hugely important dialogue. If Iraqis succeed in forging a social, contract in the hardest place of all, it means that democracy is possible anywhere in the Arab world.