I find it interesting that after the election results and the ensuing turmoil with some of Allawi's party being arrested or having warrants issued for their arrest (seemingly by Maliki, in an attempt to stay in power??) President Obama would decide to make a surprise visit to Afghanistan. The RV may be one of the reasons he is there but I think it is more likely to bring some political pressure on Iraq to settle the situation before it gets out of control.