One probable innovation reflects Mr Yudhoyono's desire to copy from the White House, by creating economic and security councils that will act as both advisory bodies and policy-generating forums.

ECONOMIST: An awkward transition

Despite the dropping levels of violence in Iraq over recent months, the latest strikes reflect what appears to be a slight uptick of assaults from March to April on civilians, U.S. and Iraqi security forces, and the Awakening Councils.

CNN: Bombings kill nearly 90 in Iraq

Currently, rebel areas are administered by an improvised patchwork of local councils and rebel brigades, many of who run bakeries, security patrols and courts and prisons for criminals and soldiers captured in battle.

NPR: Syria Opposition Pushes To Form Interim Government