On October 31, 2003, “The National Intelligence Council (NIC) distributes a National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) concluding that the insurgency is homegrown and thrives on Iraqi resentment of the U.S. occupation, and warning that the unrest could lead to civil war. The analysis, produced at the request of U.S. Central Command, is dismissed by the White House and the defense secretary’s [Donald Rumsfeld’s] office as too negative.”
– Frank Rich, The Greatest Story Ever Sold, Pages 296-297