White House releases Iraq strategy document
US President George Bush confronted doubts about his war policy today, asserting more Iraqi security forces were taking the lead in battle but saying it was still uncertain when US forces can be withdrawn.
“No war has ever been won on a timetable,” according to a new White House strategy document.
Facing criticism and impatience about the conflict, Bush went on the offensive with the release of a 35-page plan titled Our National Strategy for Victory in Iraq.
The plan says increasing numbers of Iraqi troops have been equipped and trained, a democratic government is being forged, Iraq’s economy is being rebuilt and US military and civilian presence will change as conditions improve.
“We expect, but cannot guarantee that our force posture will change over the next year, as the political process advances and Iraqi security forces grow and gain experience,” the report said.
“While our military presence may become less visible, itwill remain lethal and decisive, able to confront the enemy wherever it may organise.”
| Related Stories: |
|
