The Iraq NIE will look at sectarian violence, the stability of Iraq's government, economic trends and the state of the insurgency.

NPR: Timing of Iraq Intelligence Estimate Questioned

In Nigeria, President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency on Saturday in parts of the country plagued by a violent Islamist insurgency, and ordered shut the borders with Cameroon, Chad and Niger.

FORBES: Economist: Beware Desperate Mullahs As New Sanctions Shock Iran Oil Sales

"The U.K. has experienced mission creep from its initial goal of supporting the U.S. in countering international terrorism, far into the realms of counter-insurgency, counter-narcotics, protection of human rights and state building, " committee chairman Mike Gapes said.

CNN: At least 9 NATO troops killed in weekend fighting

However observers warn against over-stating the existence of one unified insurgency against the Pakistani state.

BBC: Q&A: Pakistan's Swat offensive

The members included more than a dozen military officers, Iraq specialists from the State Department, and outside academics who could think conceptually about the war and the application of counter-insurgency doctrine.

NEWYORKER: The General��s Dilemma

Secretary DONALD RUMSFELD (State Department): I think it would be a mistake to suggest that this insurgency has the support of the people or that it's popular.

NPR: Examining the Makeup of the Iraqi Insurgency