IRAQ: The battle for influence

[Frenchy]

I suppose if we consider the military aspect of this war, a definition of victory could be easily stated. There is no doubt that we have made positive advances in this regard with both troop and civilian casualties on the wain. Couple this with a working liaison among influential locals, great strides have been made.
But as we all know, this is more than a military endeavor. There are governments to consider, and that is the crux of my thoughts.
In the most simplistic terms, we have 3 governmental entities involved. The fledgling government of Iraq; The Western Superpower of the United States, and the muscle-flexing Iran.
Who welds the greatest influence over this new Iraqi government? Who do the Iraqi's feel offer them the better future?
The United States has little in common with them. No shared ethnicity, history or culture. Iran however does. Does this alone swing the pendulum in favor of Iran?
The 3 major factions within the Iraqi government, may have different views. One might suggest that the Sunni and Kurd would favor the United States, While the Shi'ite majority would feel more comfortable with their brothers to the East.
There is no doubt that both powers would like to have a say in the future endeavors of Iraq...But how much?
When Dr. Frankenstein created his monster, what he got was not what he had envisioned and inevitably, could not control.
Is Iraq the United States Frankenstein Monster?
Who do you think has the influential upper hand?