Pentagon chief downplays Iraqi calls for withdrawal

reuters ^ | 08 Jul 2008 19:07:06 GMT | unknown

[rocksblues]

FORT LEWIS, Wash., July 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said on Tuesday he expected to pull more U.S. troops from Iraq as local security forces improve, downplaying calls from Baghdad for a firm withdrawal deadline.

"As the Iraqi security forces get stronger and get better then we would be able to continue drawing down our troops in the future," Gates told reporters during a visit to the Fort Lewis Army base in Washington state.

The Pentagon chief stressed any decision to withdraw would be based on the ability of Iraqi troops to take responsibility for security and combat.

"This transition of control and primary responsibility for security is a process that is well under way and, based on everything I've heard, we will be able to continue," he said. "However, that really depends on the situation on the ground."

Iraq, however, has begun to call for a timetable that would set dates for the withdrawal of foreign forces.

Iraqi officials said the timetable should be included in the agreement being negotiated with Washington that will provide a legal basis for U.S. troops to operate when a U.N. mandate expires at the end of the year.

[tobyhill]

The word about the language the Iraqi’s are working toward is the US Troops will depart 5 years after the Iraqis take over ALL security and that conditions remain favorable for departure.

[eyedigress]

Staging Operations may have been a part of that plan also. Anything within 2mi may get a friendly hello. All the amenities of home will exist. I'd go.