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Topic: Iraq: If true...

Sven
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 9972

posted 26 April 2006 05:59 PM

If this CNN report is correct that the US is planning on pulling out 30,000 troops from Iraq by the end of this year, then that will represent a significant reduction in US presence there. Presumably, the Iraqi government will be filling that hole with domestic troops and security forces.

From: Eleutherophobics of the World...Unite!!!!! | Registered: Jul 2005 | IP: Logged

jeff house
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 518

posted 26 April 2006 07:31 PM

Oh gee, and right about the time of the elections, too!

And then they send them back AFTER the elections.

From: toronto | Registered: May 2001 | IP: Logged

Black Dog
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 2776

posted 26 April 2006 07:31 PM

Not really news, as there's been talk of a "drawdown" since last year. Not to worry, though: the U.S will have troops in Iraq pretty much permanantly. That's what "enduring bases" (and the mega-embassy) are for.

From: Vancouver | Registered: Jun 2002 | IP: Logged

Reason
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 9504

posted 26 April 2006 07:53 PM

Reality is, the mighty US is approaching the end of it's "rope". Recruiting is hitting an all time low, when the need is at an all time high. Soldiers are facing burn out, which leads to all sorts of pyschological problems, and frankly, how many times can the US borrow money with all of their equity "mortaged" 10 times over already?

This drawdown is a very real possibility. I will pass judgement on this rumour as the year comes closer to an end.

From: Ontario | Registered: Jun 2005 | IP: Logged

Sven
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 9972

posted 26 April 2006 08:22 PM

quote:
Originally posted by jeff house:
Oh gee, and right about the time of the elections, too!
And then they send them back AFTER the elections.

Actually, they have already reduced the force size by 30,000 soldiers since last December. I think it's a bona fide reduction trend, not just a political "trick".

From: Eleutherophobics of the World...Unite!!!!! | Registered: Jul 2005 | IP: Logged

drgoodword
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 3214

posted 26 April 2006 08:49 PM

quote:
Originally posted by jeff house:
Oh gee, and right about the time of the elections, too!
And then they send them back AFTER the elections.

I think this is the right political answer.

Although reason has a good point about the Empire's stretched troops, which is why U.S. Navy sailors have recently been given crash courses in land combat by the Army.

No wonder the generals want Rummy's head.

From: Toronto | Registered: Oct 2002 | IP: Logged

Stargazer
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 6061

posted 26 April 2006 08:54 PM

It could also be in preparation for Iran.

From: Inside every cynical person, there is a disappointed idealist. | Registered: Jun 2004 | IP: Logged

Reason
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 9504

posted 26 April 2006 09:14 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Stargazer:
It could also be in preparation for Iran.

Um... Iran would be a monumental mistake strategically speaking. Iran, is in a partnership with China and Russia... Incidently, fairly similar to NATO. Iran has an army that would make the Iraqi army look like a third world rag-tag militia. They also have a very capable airforce and navy.

If the US is stupid enough to do such a thing (yes, I know, Shrub...) then I will be going out to the casino, and put everything I have on red. Then, I will procede (win or lose) to do everything I ever dreamed about... I pray that the Senate and House are filled with wiser people then the President.

From: Ontario | Registered: Jun 2005 | IP: Logged

arborman
rabble-rouser
Babbler # 4372

posted 27 April 2006 06:03 PM

There may well be a drawdown, but I wouldn't call it a victory. Not in any real sense, particularly given that much of the Iraqi forces that might take over are made up of sectarian militias.

The coming US election plays a part as well, though I don't think the Republicans will be able to salvage themselves with Iraq this time. Current polls show less than 5 remaining 'red states.'

A lot of Repubs will be elected, but probably not a majority. Then comes the impeachment hearings.

From: I'm a solipsist - isn't everyone? | Registered: Aug 2003 | IP: Logged

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