Witnesses testified on alternative strategies for post-surge operations in Iraq. Topics included were the ability of the Iraqi police to take over security operations and corruption in the Interior Ministry. Improvements in both of these areas have been made, but much remains to be done. Also discussed was the success of the surge at reducing violence, which was partially attributed to increased troop levels and partially to brilliant leadership and how that will continue to play out in coming months. Other topics included provincial elections and the economy.