I think this is related to Muqtada’s sudden decision today “Cleric threatens to end Iraq ceasefire”, the “Breaking News” report on Nahrain Net [Sadrists website] says; the symptoms started since month ago probably the attempt was done by a toxic or a radio active material.
The source said; there are suspicions of American — Israeli and possibly British intelligences behind this assassination attempt.
This source did not give more details but he said that the situation is under control.
Related to the Al-Sadr directly, Al-Arab reported that the Commander of the Awakening Council Sheikh Saad Al-lihebi [everybody wants to be a Sheikh these days] in of Fallujah, warned that Mahdi Army army fighters will treated just like Al-Qaeda members in case they resume their activities.
Al-lihebi says that the Awakening Council deserves all the credits for restoring stabilities in 33% of Iraq.
Regarding the decision of Miliki’s Government to merge 20% of Awakening members to the Iraqi army and police he said: We asked for 40% and they refuse, but we believe that the decision is made by the U.S. and not by Al-Maliki or his government, we are negotiating with the Americans only.
http://theunitedstatesofmonsters.blogspot.com/2008/02/assassination-attempt-on-muqtada-al.html
If Al Sadr were a smart person and wanted to become the leader of Iraq he would call a peace treaty and use his forces to completely partner with the Iraq Army. This would give the US miltary and coalition forces no reason to be there thus giving him free reign to benefit from the great resources Iraq has. Not to mention he would become a hero to both Sunni and Shia populations in Iraq. His organization would then be free to do and have the resources to do anything his mind could dream up. He has an opportunity and the charisma to build the Iraqi nation.
I have been there four times and the people want peace.