Analysis: Growing impatience in Washington over Iraq

The latest violence in Iraq is causing deepening concern in Washington, both in the U.S. Congress and the Bush administration. Lawmakers of both parties are worried that the Iraqi government seems unable to halt the growing sectarian violence. U.S. officials are predicting impending catastrophe if the mayhem is not stopped.

Funerals for the victims of sectarian violence are a common sight. This week, the bodies of 60 men were found dumped in various neighborhoods of Baghdad, many bearing signs of torture.

The endless violence -- and a stubborn insurgency -- are causing deepening concern in Washington. State Department official David Satterfield sounded a grim warning during a congressional hearing Wednesday.

"If sectarian violence cannot be demonstrably, tangibly reduced, and that reduction sustained over the next several months -- an Iraq that represents all of its people, is a partner against terror and is at peace both at home and with its neighbors, will be difficult if not impossible to achieve."

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