Iraq swears in new government. It's a historic day for Iraq and the world. In the words of U.S. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad:

"What happened in the assembly represents the end of Iraq's political transition that began in April 2003 from the American administration under occupation, to a democratically elected Iraqi government. We have a lot at stake in terms of Iraq's success. That's no secret."

http://www.realcities.com/mld/krwashington/14629228.htm

Of course, the violence continued. At least 22 people were killed in an explosion at a Baghdad gas station and at least 17 corpses were discovered around the city. This type of violence will not be quelled overnight. When America first declared its independence in the late 1700's, violence from British forces continued for many years. The road to democracy is difficult, but necessary.

President Bush said this in a statement:

"The United States and freedom-loving nations around the world will stand with Iraq as it takes its place among the world's democracies and as an ally in the war on terror."