When it comes down to repression, an armed citizenry doesn't last too long against government forces. The Iraqis have historically been armed, even under Hussein. But when Hussein believed he was threatened by a group, it didn't make a difference whatsoever. Government forces are always going to have an advantage in training, equipment, numbers and firepower. The myth that people can hold them with some hunting rifles is just that.
Sometimes I feel like my shadow's casting me