Re: Bush's New Plan for Iraq
[quote=superdave;432261]I watched the speech last night and only partially listened, but I did hear a couple of new points being emphasized. I also listened to others comment on the new strategy.
First, the Iraqi situation is unacceptable(the current buzz word from the admin) and Bush takes responsibility for the situation. The public should be and is frustrated with the Iraqi situation. Second, Iraq's goverment really and this time really needs to do something about the miltias and step up or we're leaving. They didn't explicitly say we'd leave, but that's the impression I got.
As for the strategy, supposedly we're going to stay in areas and hold them from insurgents. Supposedly, we've been fighting in hot zones and then going back to safe areas and the insurgents simply hide then come back once we leave. Now, we plan to stay in the area and let the infrastructure get built back up. Imo, this means more fighting and would require more troops. Also, I hear there's a new general in charge that's well respected to get things done.
Like everyone, I'm doubtful, but I think it's worth trying if they feel it could work. If it doesn't work this time, I think we'll be pulling out of Iraq.[/quote]
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The situation in Iraq has always been unacceptable: the coalition never had a grip on the situation.
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Yes the Iraqi government should take a harder position, but what are you expecting from them? First of all Iraq has never ever experienced democracy. They have to "get used to it" and learn how to play by the rules of a democracy. Secondly the government doesn't really have much authority and credibility in the eyes of the Iraqi people, which isn't used to democracy either.
Macedonia declared independance somewhat like 10 years ago. You can't call it a "retarded" country full of cavemen, but even though there are elections, a president and a parliament, there still is a long way to go before their institutions will work like they're supposed to... Installing a new political system takes time.
Rooting out the militia street by street in Baghdad is a good idea imo. But it won't end after Baghdad. Just look at the situation in Afganistan. Cleaning out the capital is just the first step if you don't want the boomerang to come back and hit you full frontal. I have serious doubts about the 20.000 btw. I heard a military specialist say on the radio that all army manuals regarding this kind of actions recommend the triple.
It's about time Bush pipes down and makes a gesture towards the Iraqis instead of setting examples. Like what? Like US troops helping the population to rebuild the infrastructure for example. KFOR troops did (and still are doing) that after the war in the Balkan, with respect, gratitude and goodwill from the local population as a result.
"Insanity can be defined by taking the same action over and over again while expecting a different result." (Albert Einstein)