Fate of 15 Iraqi political parties in balance

A key plank in the U.S. strategy to stabilize Iraq as American troops withdraw could be threatened if the country's electoral commission bans 15 political parties from the March election.

A spokesman says a decision could come within days on whether to exclude the parties because their leaders allegedly have links to former dictator Saddam Hussein.

The move could threaten attempts to draw former supporters of the insurgency into the political process.

In the past three years, many Sunni militias have turned against the insurgents and are now working alongside the Shiite-dominated government, though it's a somewhat tense relationship.

Analysts say the promise of political inclusion was a key part of persuading the militias to change sides.