Panel Backs Overhaul of Iraq Policy (1 Viewer)

[jfuh]

Saying that “the situation in Iraq is grave and deteriorating,” a bipartisan commission today urged stepped-up diplomatic and political efforts to stabilize that country, coupled with a shift in the mission of the American military to allow the United States to “begin to move its combat forces out of Iraq responsibly.”
This could allow all United States combat brigades “not necessary for force protection” to be out of Iraq by the first quarter of 2008, the Iraq Study Group’s report said.

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“We do not recommend a stay-the-course solution,” Mr. Baker said pointedly at a question-answer session accompanying the report’s release. “In our opinion, that is no longer viable.”
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Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, the Democratic leader, said the study group had done “a tremendous and historic service” by declaring that “there must be a change in Iraq, and there is no time to lose.”
But the White House could point to the commission’s refusal to advocate a quick withdrawal of American troops, an event that Mr. Hamilton said could touch off “a bloodbath” and a wider regional conflict.
Mr. Hamilton urged administration officials and lawmakers to tackle the study group’s recommendations quickly, or else, “Events in Iraq could overtake what we recommend.” - SOURCE

Change course Mr. President, and do so quickly, you don't want more blood on your hands.