Via Michael Crowley, the Washington Post reports a bizarre anecdote about the Iraqi national security adviser watching cartoons during a meeting with Rep. John Porter (R-NV):

But even such tight control could not always filter out the bizarre world inside the [Green Zone] barricades. At one point, the three [visiting members of Congress] were trying to discuss the state of Iraqi security forces with Iraq’s national security adviser, Mowaffak al-Rubaie, but the large, flat-panel television set facing the official proved to be a distraction. Rubaie was watching children’s cartoons.

When Moran asked him to turn it off, Rubaie protested with a laugh and said, “But this is my favorite television show,” Moran recalled.

Porter confirmed the incident, although he tried to paint the scene in the best light, noting that at least they had electricity.

“I don’t disagree it was an odd moment, but I did take a deep breath and say, ‘Wait a minute, at least they are using the latest technology, and they are monitoring the world,’ ” Porter said. “But, yes, it was pretty annoying.”

Yes, thank goodness the Iraqi government is “using the latest technology” and “monitoring the world.” I’m sure Rubaie will track down some insurgents on Dora the Explorer soon…