“In June [16] 2005, the MNF [Multi-National Forces] came up with its ‘Infrastructure Protection Plan.’ It called for the allocation of $70 million for oil pipeline protection and the enhancement of the capabilities of the Strategic Infrastructure Battalions (SIB). Control over the entire plan would be assigned to Iraq’s Ministry of Defence. The plan was accepted in its entirety and the appropriate funding provided by the Ministry of Finance, but there was actually little impact on the level of attacks and disruptions. The truth was that the US army did not have sufficient troops to provide the necessary level of protection, and infrastructure protection and securing electricity supplies was not at the top of their lists. Plans would be made to protect various stretches of pipelines, only to see the pipelines blown up time and time again.”
– Ali A. Allawi, The Occupation of Iraq, Page 424