23 October 2008
The Iraqis want changes in the security agreement with the U.S. They are worried that there will be too much opposition for it to pass as it is now. Right now the pact is for our troops to stay in Iraq until 2011 and possibly longer. It’s OK with me if we go home tomorrow. The money that is being spent on the wars is much needed here at home. I can see taking a stand in Afghanistan if the government there joins the fight against the Taliban who really have a foothold there, but Iraq, forget it.
Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the United States Joint Chiefs of Staff warned the Iraqis that they will not be able to handle insurgent and terrorist violence after Dec. 31 without the help of the American military. In my opinion these are police matters not U.S. combat troop responsibility. For the most part, recent flair ups seem to be more civil war like than Al Qaeda operating. The U.S. doesn’t seem inclined to make more changes in the pact and if the Iraqis refuse to ratify it, so be it. Right now, the draft of the pact sets a timeline for American troop withdrawals from Iraqi cities by next June and complete withdrawal from the country on Dec. 31, 2011, but open to adjustments in the schedule depending on conditions in the country.
The United Nations Security Council resolution that authorizes American troop operations in Iraq expires on Dec. 31 which means that if the Iraqis don’t accept the new pact offered, we’re out of there which suits me fine.
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