There sure are a lot of arm chair generals and secretary of state’s on FR. Everyone thinks they know everything about Iraq and the Middle East in general. I suspect the reason that Fred is “leary” is that he thought the reporter was talking about a “long term combat role.” He will likely come out with a clarification, I would expect.
According to the article, he was specifically asked about setting up a role for our troops in Iraq similar to what we have in Korea and Germany. We need to be there as long as we need to be there — he’s repeatedly said we need to win the war.
But why would we want to specifically plan to be there for the next 60 or 70 years, minimum?
“I suspect the reason that Fred is “leary” is that he thought the reporter was talking about a “long term combat role.” He will likely come out with a clarification, I would expect.”
Good! Maybe he can clarify this statement.
>>>”I don’t think that’s desirable,” said Thompson, though he did leave an opening. “What might be necessary in the future, you can never tell,” he said. <<<<