Two Steps Forward, Six Steps Backward

The Filipino truck driver held hostage in Iraq was freed, but six more hostages--two Kenyans, three Indians and an Egyptian--were abducted by militants in what the Bush administration would probably call a sign that their policy is working.

Oh--and if you do link to the story, check out the inset, which gives the reader a glimpse at the remaining members of the coalition and their respective committments, including the absurd note that suggests South Korea will actually bump up their contingent by 3,000 soldiers at some point (as if this would make any difference).

Can someone please explain to me how hostage taking on a scale greater than what went on in Lebanon in the 1980's constitutes a success?