Scott Rosenberg pointed out this Washington Post article. 

Some Iraqis, however, question the allocation of U.S. forces around the capital. They note a whole company of Marines, along with at least a half-dozen amphibious assault vehicles, has been assigned to guard the Oil Ministry, while many other ministries — including trade, information, planning, health and education — remain unprotected.

“Why just the oil ministry?” Jaf asked. “Is it because they just want our oil?”

A seemingly logical question;  but certainly  one which so many dismiss as the mantra of the protesters.  Yet,  it does hlep to have some healthy cynicism concerning the ability of US economic interests to see beyond the things that play to these interests.  It’s money that corrupts.  It’s true everywhere and for all time.  Do we REALLY think that this adminstration (or any other) is IMMUNE?  It only stands to reason,  and realism,  and a recognition of the ,  yes,  SINFUL nature of humans ,  US government included,  especially when it comes to matters of economic interest.