There are definite differences between Iraq and Vietnam, but the key point is that they both have critical unconventional warfare components. I don't think the exact makeup is that critical to the analogy.

Regardless, I'm not quite catching what you mean by primary parallel.

I think the division is supposed to be between the conventional and technological approach versus more cultural/political/economic approaches. Obviously the military has long dealt with engineers, physical scientists, and programmers. The humanities part is supposed to be the newer bit.