So I found this interesting. First, it's reported that Iraq's Prime Minister has publicly stated that he supports and agrees with Obama's timetable for troop withdrawl. Then, he gets a call from Bush's people, and suddenly, the Prime Minister's office claims he was misquoted and didn't agree as strongly as reported.
But then, the New York Times gets it's hands on an audio recording of the Iraqi Prime Minister's comments, and provides these direct quotes:
"Obama's remarks that — if he takes office — in 16 months he would withdraw the forces, we think that this period could increase or decrease a little, but that it could be suitable to end the presence of the forces in Iraq."
and
"Who wants to exit in a quicker way has a better assessment of the situation in Iraq."
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/07/...ca/21obama.php
So as long as people hear the direct quotes, I think I'd say that visit played in Obama's favor. But if all they hear is that the Prime Minister is backing off the comments, then I think it may
not play in his favor.