that, even before the americans withdrew people told me that they were extremely worried about the winstrol, doubtful of the ability of the iraqi government to defend themselves. that is not what you hear from the iraqi government or the americans. what we have been getting from the americans is one line, the glass is half full. yes, the security service -- security services in up the perfect, but americans say they are definitely prepared to keep control of the situation. many of the residents of baghdad were skeptical about it. i think that many people now feel that this proves their fears. >> thank you very much. the threat ofintimidation hangse parts of afghanistan today, less than 24 hours after the country -- before the country votes in elections. the threat of violence to disrupt the process remains a reality. three gunmen have been battled in taking over a bank. these of the first elections to be organized by afghans themselves, a particularly harsh test for the government. mike will ridge reports. >> more gunfire in the center of the afghan capital on the eve of the elections. seve