More Troops in Iraq Will Not Solve The Problem
Army Gen. John Abizaid testified before the Armed Services Committee of the United States and told Senators that adding troops in Iraq would not solve problems. This reference can be taken to refer to John McCain’s call last week for troop increases. General Abizaid also argued against withdrawal timetables and found himself facing more critical questioning than he has experienced in previous appearances.
“I believe more American forces prevent the Iraqis from doing more, taking more responsibility for their future,” Abizaid told the Senate Armed Services Committee.”He admitted a new strategy was needed, but warned that if Congress imposed troop limits or withdrawal timelines, commanders would lose needed “flexibility.” Instead, commanders should focus the U.S. force they already have in Iraq on training Iraqi units, he said.
But both Republican and Democrat senators seized on Abizaid’s comments as evidence that war managers had not identified a new, effective plan. Click here to read the rest of the story.