.Reformation of the United States’ Iraq strategy is in the air again after the prestigious Iraq Study Group released their findings last week. The Group, which was formed more than nine months ago, criticized current U.S. policy in Iraq and recommended sweeping changes.

The ISG’s proposals mark a dramatic shift in the conventional thinking surrounding Iraq. The panel quickly acknowledged that their report was not a panacea for all the issues being faced in Iraq. The ISG’s proposals included forming a national group to support the rebuilding of Iraq, shrinking the number of American troops in Iraq and pressuring the Iraq government to make definitive progress. One controversial suggestion advises collaboration with Syria and Iran to stabilize the area.

President Bush stated that the report would be seriously considered and appropriate action taken. We can only imagine that he was less than thrilled to receive the grim assessment of the Iraq situation. Combined with the weak Republican showing at the last election, the announced recommendations reveal a lack of confidence in the current course and Americans agree. A Newsweek poll found that nearly two thirds of Americans agree with the ISG proposals. Bush seems to have encountered the second term slump that other presidents have experienced.

If nothing else, the Iraq Study Group has presented new proposals that deserve consideration. They have fulfilled their role as a source of innovation, and the only question remaining is whether their ideas are good enough for the President. President Bush has proven himself to be a stubborn man, but he must recognize his loss of credibility in many circles.

While Bush shouldn’t blindly accept all 79 of the group’s proposals, there are more than a few that are worth pursuing. It is clear that in order to positively affect the situation in Iraq, many changes will need to happen together. The American people are ready for a new direction, and these new ideas could be the impetus needed to mend Iraq.