“I think everybody agrees that it is essential that one makes a process in Iraq as inclusive and participatory as possible and also try to reconcile the Iraqis,” Mr. Annan said in a media encounter when asked if talking to the insurgents was a good thing or bad thing.

“I think reconciliation and participation is part of the process, so if one can pull as many people in, it is important, because there is no military solution. You have to, as such, you need to bring in everyone.”

Pressed whether that included the Americans speaking to the insurgents, Mr. Annan replied: “I think it’s part of the process to try and resolve this politically and I think to try to explain to everyone in Iraq what they have to gain by coming into the process. So I have no difficulties with that. I think it is the correct thing to do.”