Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jared Black Boise Idaho — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 13:38:26 GMT

Been there twice... Now the terrorists know when to strike. They can sit back, build up numbers of arms and people, get stronger, train and wait to strike once we leave. There is no longer the need for them to continuously strike like they have in the past. They will wait and my brothers and sisters will have died in vein.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Skaggs, Columbus, OH — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:08:59 GMT

Salman says "the security forces are not completely trained", my God how long does it take? When our infantry trained for Vietnam, we had 14 weeks. When we hit the ground there we knew what to do and how to do it. If the security forces in Iraq are forced to defend their own country, I'm sure they will be equal to the task. As long as we keep doing it for them, they will let us.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Informed Citizen — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:18:52 GMT

This is ridiculous. Most rational people have realized this fact from the beginning, except for the Dems at least. When Bush was in office, the only thing we heard from the Dems and Iraqis was how America needs to leave Iraq immediately. Now that Obama is in, a "responsible and gradual" withdrawl is popular. Mayabe the media just didn't interview regular citizens before. If America isn't careful, this situation will be similar to our pullout of Haiti.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

ken Kimball, W. Springfield, MA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:27:20 GMT

We should be out soon after all of our troops are out of Korea. We have been there over 50 years so far.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Hope for Iraq — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:29:03 GMT

it will be interesting to see what transpires in Iraq in the next 5-10 yrs....will they continue a path of having a "republic" style government, or will Sunni/Shiite battles begin again until one group gets the 'upper hand' in control? I would love to see a 'democratic ran government' succeed in the Mid East; it would truly be a testimony about how these people have put up with a lot of strife in the past decades and are ready to move beyond that. Do I think this will happen? Unfortunately not. I think the rifts in their majority groups in the country will not allow this. Can we really expect that the US could change in less than a decade what they themselves haven't attempted to change for thousands of years? Equality between their people? We shall see.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ted — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:31:29 GMT

Obama has already commited to 36 months and back out of his word of 16 months to now 19 months. He will keep up the same govenment that GWB set in place. You can see it in his flip-flpp on Iraq and his warmongering for afganistan his huge bailout bills and his new proposal for even MORE spending, which means we get GWB the second with a democrate spin on tax and spend.. All of which will do nothing to solve any of our problems. Let's move the gitmo prisoner elsewhere and still deny them their day in court but he closed Gitmo.. WHat's the difference? None. Change? Nope more of the same

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

D. Grey Rochester, MN — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:37:59 GMT

Aren't these the same people who have been demanding a withdrawal of american troops in the past?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

edward l williams hinesville, ga — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:38:33 GMT

My Mom once told me that there will come a time when I will have to stand up and be a man. That time has come for Iraq. We can not stay there for ever.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Retired Army Leavenworth Kansas — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:43:35 GMT

In the US it taks 17 years to train a battalion commnader (600 men), 19 years to train a brigade commander (4000 troops), and 22 for a division commander (17,000 Troops). It takes more than 10 years to train a platoon sergeant (43 men) but we will train the Iraqi military from scratch in 14 weeks. What an idiotic statement.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Dan, Enid, OK — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:48:54 GMT

Stupid. Just plain stupid.

Why tell the terrorists when we will leave?

Sure we need goals but you don't tell the enemy what the dates associated with those goals are. Now they'll just sit back and wait until we leave. Don't get me wrong, I'm IN the military and I want America out of Iraq but to leave before Iraqis can defend themselves is irresponsible and will only embolden the terrorists (again) and further tarnish America's image abroad.

Of course, liberals will understand none of this....

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

jon — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:51:06 GMT

Iraq war has become a business. Many corporations and of course individuals are now dependent on livlihood and big money contracts as long as the war can last. This business of killing or get killed (war) must finally come to end. The prime responsibility for the security and control of the situation in Iraq is Iraqi people and its military. The same goes for the rest of the world. Unless they know that US is going to scale back and they will have to take the responsibility, they will all just sit on the fence and watch the show.
You have get the Iraqi's mentally be prepared to take on thir own responsibilities. They have people, money and best weopons and training at hand and I am sure they have the will to put themselves back on track. All this scary rhetoric of "terrorist will come back" is just a front show to keep the us tax payer money to go to waste to pay the contractors and everyone involved. Let everyone be responsible for themselves here and abroad rather than handouts and asking for babysitting practice.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

SNAPPA, Las Vegas, NV — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:54:19 GMT

NO matter when the US leaves Iraq, Iran will be there to fill the vacum. The majority in Iraq are Shi'ites and so is Iran. In 5 years you will be calling Iraq the Islamic Republic of Iraq which is fine as long as the people want that. The anger I have is that WE, Americans opened the door for Iran to gain a lot of power in the middle east. For as bad as Saddam was he was a buffer between Iran and the west and he kept them in check.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

debra smith, belmont ohio — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:02:17 GMT

comment for the person who stated our boys only had 14 weeks to train and then sent to vietnam.........and how many exactly did we loose over there??

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Josh Johnson — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:09:09 GMT

Nice Catch-22, you ask them when there is no time line and they say they hate America being there and can't wait for us to get out, then you set a time line and they complain it will be too early and the country will implode.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

CBnGR — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:10:46 GMT

No question war is evil. But to turn the innocent people of Iraq (or a neighbor) into sitting ducks to be blasted and bombed by extremists is much worse. Look at the slaughter in Cambodia and Vietnam. Will America stick to their withdrawal plan when rescue is needed. Will we wadle and ring our hands and cluck about what a shame like the genocide in Rwanda.

What does The United States of America really stand for?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Dave Buter, Lake in the Hills, IL — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:11:56 GMT

Great Military success can never be achieved when you tell your enemy what you're going to do and when you're going to do it. I can see it now, Obama will pull the troops out, Iraq will be destroyed and the media will scream that it is all Bush's fault. Due his hatred of the military Obama is going to render the sacrifices of our great troops meaningless. Liberalism must be defeated and placed in the ashcan of history as soon as possible. Stopping Obama and the democrats from turning us into the the "Socialist States of America" is but the first step. We have to stand up and fight to save our great country. Conservatives Unite! Semper Fi!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

maddog — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:12:56 GMT

Well, now the dems. wear the big pants in the family in U.S.....It's really easy to continually tear down decision-makers when you don't have to be responsible for anything you say....It's time for the liberal-elite to take responsibility....After-all, they are calling the shots.....What next, boss???

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

maddog, Gray, Tn. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:14:04 GMT

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Andy — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:14:55 GMT

Let me state for the record, regardless of when we leave Iraq and the final outcome in Iraq (stability/goverment/etc.). My brother and cousin died there. They died serving their country and following orders as they swore an oath to do. Regardless of what happens in Iraq, a US soldier, marine, airman, or sailor does not die "in vain" if they were carrying out the will of the elected leaders of our democracy. Anyone who says they did should be ashamed of themselves!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Dough — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:22:51 GMT

Let Iraq go to the dogs,along with Bush! His (Bush) war has cost way too much already in American blood and treasure. The Iraqi's hated us before, and they surely hate us now, they don't want to defend their own country,let them kill each other!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Scott, Seaford, DE — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:28:47 GMT

Anyone who thinks this combat mission retreat will go well has lost their mind!!!! I have family and friends as you read this that are involved in very scary bloody combat missions daily and yes i want them home. In this horrible war I personally have lost 3 friends that i went to high school with and I was very close to one of them and his entire family. Just typing this brings tears to my eyes. That bloody hell-hole will become worse than ever if we do a major troop withdrawl. My friends and many many others will have fought and died just to let many of those same battle fields become stomping grounds for terrorists once again. The terrorists will grow rapidly in volume and the WORLD will have a much larger problem to deal with. Want to help our troops there now well take the bailout money from all those big business rich dirty corrupt pigs and put it towards better armor and weapons for our troops. We may have put a strain on terrorism and violence but as soon as we reduce forces that tight noose our troops fought and died for will loosen. When this happens you better pray to whatever god you worship to help not only all the innocent men women and children who are natives in the mid east but all of us!!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

AJ_from_Alabama — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:30:50 GMT

If Iraq decides to be a "blood-bath" after we leave, what has President Obama planned for America in that situation?

Will we bring 100k troops back to try and restore?
Will we just let them kill themselves?

We did not seem to have an exit plan with the Bush Administration, but what is Obama's Administration plan for if/when the Iraqi's turn to extreme violence?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jason Rowell, San Diego, California — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:36:21 GMT

Of course it's a hasty retreat. Anyone who knew anything that was going on here in politics knew it would be. If President Obama could get our troops out safely today, he would. The only reason for the delay is over troop safety. Though, my buddies and I have bets on how long it will be til the terrorists over run it, and we (being the U.S. with allies, or the UN) come back as a "humanitarian effort" to refree the people we so hastedly left.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Skaggs — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:37:09 GMT

Retired Army: Where did you get your figures.? You obviously misread what I stated. The infantry training that I received for Vietnam WAS in fact 14 weeks. 6 wks. basic and 8 wks. AIT. We were shipped and were expected to know what to do once we reached country. I had several commanders who did not have the required years in service as you state. If we could learn what to do in 14 weeks, so can the Iraqi soldiers. Their commanders may be a different story. It's not rocket science, you know.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

JollyRoger, Oklahoma City — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:40:31 GMT

This isn't why I voted for Obama.

Making one mistake doesn't obligate us to keep on making mistakes. Invading Iraq was a mistake. We were looking for WMD, and there weren't any. All this talk about "saving Iraqis from a tyrant" is post-hoc justification.

Democracy for the Iraq people is not, and never was, worth one single American life. In Iraq, only a handful of Westernized intelligentsia even know what democracy is. The rest are just keeping their heads down, waiting for the next strong man to emerge, as he most certainly will.

On this one single point, Ron Paul is right. We marched in, we can march out. Now. And don't worry about the oil. Arabs and Persians can't eat oil. Whoever's in charge will want to sell it, and we'll be able to buy it.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

CMC — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:40:47 GMT

I say we should pull out as we should have never been there in the first place.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Troy, United States of Obama Giving Away America — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:41:49 GMT

But wait... How can this be? We were told by our reputable news agencies as they were actively campaigning for Obama that the Iraqi people wanted us out of there NOW! Surely that hasn't changed. Surely all the people who voted for Obama (It's Time for a Change) remember that being one of the main reasons we had to get out of there?

LOL... I'd sooner trust a rabid, hungry grizzly bear before I trusted the media or a democrat.

Flame on!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Dina — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:43:34 GMT

At least this story gives 2 sides, props for that one. One side shows that the Iraqis needed us, the other shows they are ready to possibly take care of their own country now. Lets hope for the best for everyone.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Allen McCready, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, Earth — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:44:20 GMT

Obviously, at some timely point, Iraq must defend itself.

Without a public deadline, that point will always be later. Undue hardship and possibly calamity would occur if, without adequate warning to ALL parties, the U.S. suddenly left Iraq.

Iraq's ambivalence toward the U.S.'s occupation is only one example of numerous instances around the globe of the U.S. having gotten mired by invitation, popular demand, self-defense, poor planning, and too often...arrogance.

The U.S. may still be the world's strongest superpower. However, it may also rapidly be getting hollowed out by taking on and having to take on more than it can possibly handle. This is being aggravated by the decay inherent in the greed and incompetence driving our latest and potentially worst economic crisis.

It is time for the world to recognize and end its adolescent love/hate relationship with the U.S. The world must seriously start establishing the adult governance infrastructure needed to assume rightful accountability for establishing and then maintaining humanitarian world order and peace. The United Nations organization was a start, but is far too inadequate, as is, for the task. For the global citizenries and their governments to continue leave the heavy lifting to the U.S., and then snipe constantly, is hypocritical, unfair, and irresponsible.

The world need not wait for the U.S. to tell it to do this. Take the initiative. But, do it with appropriate democracy. Recognize that just as each of the world’s countries claims a right to share in global decisions to which they are ultimately a stakeholder, similarly, each of those countries’ citizens is such a stakeholder too.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Cfoote,Schenectady,NY — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:45:00 GMT

I agree with Jared. Now that a timetable has been set, all the terrorist have to do between now and then is train and stay low. Iraq won't be able to stand on its own becuase the government and people are weak. All will live in fear of the next terror organization to step in and tell them what to do.I don't forsee Obama and any terrorist faction sitting down and talking, and the President saying "now that we are leaving, promise me you won't cause any trouble or overtake what we set up" Extremist do what they please, when they please, with no ones permission. So shall be the case with Iraq

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Skaggs — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:50:57 GMT

debra smith: 58,463 and a lot of them were my friends. Maybe we should have had 5 or 6 years training and then less would have been killed.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Roger Hughes — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:51:03 GMT

I deeply regret the loss of life and the cost of the Iraqi debacle, on all sides. But is this a sound reason to continue the futile exercise? They are a tribal society, split by a deep religious divide, with extremists on all sides, and I believe the moment the troops leave they will set about each other with a vengeance, until one group becomes dominant. They will have their civil war whatever condition we leave them in, so what is the sense in continuing poring money and lives into an unsolvable problem?
We made serious mistakes in the beginning, the biggest was going into the country under false pretences in the first place, but surely, after seven years we have made up for those mistakes, and given it our best shot!
They are like adolescents, whilst ever we keep supporting them and giving them spending money they will stay with mum and dad for as long as they can. So, there comes a time when you have to say, enough, now get on with it yourselves. I think this time has come, because we now have our own house to look after.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Michael Robbins — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:51:03 GMT

Does anyone remember the pictures of the U.S. Embassy in Saigon with desperate people hanging on as the choppers left? How about the bloodbath that followed in then South Vietnam? Considering the folly of the recent election not to mention the folly of the Obama and Democrat plans to "stop the downward spiral" of the current economic decline, it is time to realize that we Americans are experiencing a crisis which presents the very real question as to whether we are any longer capable of self government.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Steve17702 — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:53:36 GMT

It has always been this way. Why is this news. Anyone with half a brain could figure this out. Isn't this exactly what George Bush and John McCain told us would happen when the Obamaites labeled McCain as a warmonger during the campaign. Looks like the empty suit full of empty promises is going to have to start eating his campaign promises. But then again what did you expect from a junior senator who's only claim to fame was "I wrote a book" It was plain to see with every campaign promise how unqualified he was for the job to everyone with half a brain.

All Hail the Chief !!!! LOLOLOLOLOLOL

What a bunch of idiots......

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Patricia, Seattle, WA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:54:10 GMT

Read "The Forever War" by Dexter Filkins and then ask if we need to be there in Iraq or if the Iraqi's want nothing more then the financial resources the American People provide. We are smiled at as they remove our wallets. We are the greater fools and all those who war for their livelihood will not change because the USA decided they need to. I ache for the families who suffer from war; they are the unwilling collateral of the omnipotent few.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Mark Overas, Fredonia, AZ — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:54:35 GMT

Reply to Informed Citizen-
You don't get it-the lesson of Viet Nam , and of history, is that when you remove an dictator, you create a power vacuum. Which is why we should not have ever gone into Iraq to begin with- we upset the power structure, and so now we own the results. This was entirely predictable, and unavoidable. 5000 US soldiers will have died, thousands more maimed for life, all because George Bush would not, or was incapable, of learning the lessons of history.
anchor

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Sheri Watson NYC — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:55:19 GMT

Obama is making good on his promise.

We entered this debalce predicated on lies, thaks to BUSH and CHENEY.

Time to say goodbye. Stop giving Iraqis handouts-that's they will really miss.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Navy Sailor, San Diego, CA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:02:56 GMT

Hey, when they notice the drastic change in violence, they will want their superheros back. So who cares when we pull out. Because we will just have to go back over and help our friends again.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Blocker Texas — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:06:01 GMT

Iraqis---Get out now!
No, wait, dont leave.
Get out now!!
No wait,dont leave
Its time for the Iraqi people to MAN up and take care of themselves. There has never been peace in that area and there will NEVER be peace in that area.
We dont have a dog in that fight, let them sort it out.
Our recently dethroned govt...BUSH....has left his imprint on the area...or rather he left a crater.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Tab Uno, Clearfield, Utah — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:07:15 GMT

If I recall correctly, it is the Iraqi government that negotiated and demanded that all U.S. military forces be out of their own country by the end of 2011.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Bob — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:08:14 GMT

I hate to sound cynical, but if the Iraqi people choose to reject the democratic government we installed and choose a bloodbath instead once we leave, how is that our problem? We gave them the tools, they rejected it...therefore, its not gonna matter how long we stay. We'd only be delaying the inevitable...so why keep our guys in harms way any longer? If the bloodbath is gonna happen, better sooner than later

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jen, FTW, TX — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:09:35 GMT

I think Iraq enjoys the hand out at America's expense, but also like to complain about the Americans that come with all the hand outs. Suck it up and support your own country, defend your own country, take responsibility for your own country. OUR country is in such a mess, we need to focus on US. Spend our money at HOME, not abroad. That whole side of the world swims in oil, surely between the mafia front called OPEC they can squeeze enough out of the rest of the world to stop riding on America's financial coattails. Let them civilize themselves or eliminate themselves, either way our focus should be back here. I have traveled worldwide, everyone hates AMERICA but loves our HELP. I say its time to focus on us and let them worry about themselves.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

j12120 — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:10:32 GMT

That some Iraqis might not want the U.S. troops to leave is interesting, but irrelevant. Many other thier countrymen want us out. The U.S. military is not about nation building. The situation on the ground is relatively calm. It is time for the Iraqis to stand on their own. The U.S. cannot stay there forever and this is not "cut and run".

Those who died and were wounded, and those whose lives were disrupted, all of you made unbelievable personal sacrifices and deserve our gratitude and respect. That you were called upon to make those sacrifices, and the fact that they were made, however does not make the Iraq war a justified undertaking. It was a mistake, and leaving under conditions were there is a reasonable chance to have the Iraqi government maintain stability is the best exit strategy that will ever present itself for this tragic part of our history.

The sacrifices made may, in some opinions, have been made in vain, but that does not provide a justification for even more sacrifices being made going forward.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jason, Denver, CO — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:11:29 GMT

While some of you have mentioned that we only heard stories about how Iraqis wanted us out of their country while Bush was in office, this is untrue. As much as you like to blame the "liberal media" for one-sided reporting, realize that plenty of media outlets, including the Washington Post, the New York Times, and NPR also showed another side of the story from those in Iraq who were heartened and happy to have Americans over there.

My question is this: Why should Iraq (or any other country) have a democratic form of government? Is it truely what's best for them as a society, or is it what WE want to see, as it is clearly our ideal? I think before we attempt to install this system of government, we need to look at the reasons why and whether or not to do so is ethical.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

T. Brown — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:12:22 GMT

If we stay troops get killed, if we leave more people get killed, there's nothing that can be done to resolve this. America has troubles of it's own than to deal with another country's "issues." Iraqi's have become too reliant on the US military presence and at some point they need to find their own strengh. Unfortunately the oil that we rely on is positioned in Iraq, which won't make the situation good for America in the long run if terrorist really want to hurt the US through tampering w/ oil. At some point the US has got to leave, it's drainng our pockets dry. This has become one big nightmare that won't end.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Marie Decatur, Georgia — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:12:40 GMT

I am amazed at the arrogance of some of the responses. If the terrorist can train to fight and military men and women from all over the world can be trained to deal wit combat then why oh why can't the MEN from Iraq? Are they genetically deficient? It is not like they are a third world country with no means of securing the arms and training necessary. They have 19 months left so Carpe Diem and get it together!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

kfd, McHenry, IL — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:13:10 GMT

Let me ask - how did we leave VietNam? How many years did that go on? Finally the People in the U.S said enough!! that's how we left - How many were killed there? Why are we still in Iraq?? Enough is enough and they don't even like us!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jerry Fryman,pekin,Il. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:19:30 GMT

All of you that are compaining about the U.S. troops leaving Iraq.Feel free to join the service and head on over to Iraq.
It's easy to say,stay there forever when someone else or someones elses sons or daughters are serving 3 tours and 3 years of their life in Iraq.
We can't babysit the people of Iraq forever with american lives and money.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

ed york, pa — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:22:54 GMT

Obama going to bring all them home to what? no work, no jobs, no future

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Drew, WA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:27:20 GMT

I do love the arguement that since we shouldn't have been there in the first place we should leave. It's pretty idiotic to act like iraqi lives don't matter and that leaving them unsafe is an excellent idea or leaving them to be slaughtered by Saddam was ok to. Does no one else think it's not only racist but inhumane to base our actions on the idea that iraqi lives are not worth as much as american lives.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

norm — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:29:51 GMT

You can never completely eliminate 100% the terrorist.
The best can be done is to make sure that they are marginlized in their efforts- which has already been accomplished (actually it was accomplished on the day Bush said - "MISSION ACCOMLISHED).
Had it nt been this experiment in instilling and installaing a democracy, we could have gotton out by make a truce with the Iraqi's by getting rid of Saddam the untrustworthy and install a friendly regime and got out quickly. It would have saved a lot in lives and resources. That would be prudent move.
The longer US stays in Iraq, the longer it will be to get out completely. (possibly more cost in live, money and loss to our economy)

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ron Booth, Westminster, CO — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:32:52 GMT

I can understand why Iraqi's might be nervous so it's time for them to start stepping up NOW to get trained and be prepared to take on responsibility for their own security. I'm not insensative to the fact that we weren't invited in the first place so we do have a responsiblility to help make things as right as possible before departing but the Iraqi goverment has said we are to be out by December 2011 and I feel that the current draw down timeline and the residual forces that will be in place through the end of 2011 should provide the Iraqi people ample opportunity to take charge of their own destiny.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Steve, New England — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:33:54 GMT

It isn't really 'terrorists' that the Iraqis need to worry about, that's just a convenient political excuse to try to get us and our money to stay after complaining for so long about our so-called 'occupation'. (They don't want us there, but they now fear for their safety if we leave, get it?) But the terrorists want to kill us, not them. Terrorists are OUR problem, not theirs. Their problem is ingrained by thousands of years of ignorance. If they'd just evolve out of the control of their svengali-like 'religious' leaders who have them brainwashed and slaughtering each other (in the name of Allah, of course, but actually for their own 'political' and power gains, and a life of luxury and worship, think Sadr and other such ilk) their problems would be over. They're sitting on a sea of black gold! If they would just stop their Shiite/Sunni/Kurd antagonisms and learn to be simply Iraqis and live together peacefully, they could join the rest of the modern world and have a nice, safe country with secure, soverign borders and, after our help with rebuilding the damage caused to their infrastructure by not only the war but 20-30 years of neglect by Saddam and his boys as they plundered Iraq's coffers, they could actually have a pretty nice life. Unfortunately, I don't think enough of them are educated enough for that to happen, so they will undoubtedly go on killing each other in the name of religion. It's too bad it has to end this way, but our boys and girls have been tied up there for far too long already. Our military can't respond elsewhere in the world to take on real problems that threaten us and innocent peoples, and they're just sitting there like clay pigeons to be picked off one at a time by OUR enemies with their suicide bombers and IEDs. I know it sounds cold, but we did them a favor, we got rid of their dictator. Apparently, we can't help them with their own ignorance. Now it's long past the time for us to leave, and let them either sink or swim.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Barbara, Harrisburg, PA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:34:12 GMT

To Edward Williams in Hinesville, GA: I agree, there is a time to stand up and be a man, to stand on your OWN.

So why is it we STILL provide Israel with approximately $3 BILLION, yes BILLION dollars a year? Their military has been created by US, and it's time they stand ON THEIR OWN. How long must we let this parasite suck the life out of us?

We need to cut the apron strings and let Israel stand on it's own like we want the Iraqis to stand on theirs.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Angela, Boston, MA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:36:50 GMT

The terrorists want to turn Iraq into a pure Islamic state, don't you get it people?!!! Democracy and Islam ARE NOT compatible. We've wasted too much money already on imposing Western style government on nations (mostly Islamic) that hate us, and for what? Bring back our troops and let them destroy the terrorist cells that exist in our backyard and help stop the cancerous growth of Islam and Sharia Law in the U.S.!!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Sally, Atlanta — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:43:13 GMT

I agree completely with Allen McCready. Think about it. All during the Bush administration, the blood bath continued until Barack Obama announced his candidacy and promised to get us out of Iraq. Slowly, things began to move toward less violence. Nobody says it, but that happened only when Obama announced an end to America paying for their foolish wars. We have to stop thinking of ourselves as the world's police force and let those who want to fight pay for their own wars and sacrifice their own soldiers.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Styguy New london wisconsin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:44:49 GMT

What is a terrorist anyway? IF some country like say china grew to be more powerful than the US and decides to overthrow our government for the things we have done as a nation and install a government that they see fit. Would you fight back and if you did would you be considerd a terrorist, dont get me wrong the things that people in Iraq have done to eachother are horrible but have we really been any better.

Its not our fight to begin with never has been, If there wasnt oil in the mideast we would never have gone to begin with. Without oil its a sand box with a bunch of religous freedom fighters or at least thats how they see themselves. We as a nation will never win the war in the mideast until we free ourselves from oil, in doing so we will free millions of women and children of the mideast who die at the hands of our big oil companies greed. So i guess what im trying to say is im not totally convinced that we should so easily use the word terrorist when our own country is at least partially to blame for most of the conflict in the mideast to begain with.

I also find it humorus that most people think there is such a big differance between dems and republicans anyway, its all about the money power and greed. Do you honestly believe our government gives a shit about peace in the middle east, hell no with peace in the middle east comes control of there own oil revenues. That is why the so called west has destabelized the region to begin with well i guess all of this is just my opinion anyway. As americans i just believe we could be a whole lot better~!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

joelc — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:44:55 GMT

Understand, the insurgent groups will continue to strike in Iraq irregardless if America is present or not. Obama does not plan to abandon Iraq but give the responsibility of its security to them. It is time to bring this colossal mistake to an end.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

j askins — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:53:07 GMT

We have done enough. Let Irak stand or fall....

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Dale C. Scott — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:56:19 GMT

Hey, Mr. Salman ----- If you and your neighbors are so certain and concerned about the future with the U.S. military gone, then you had better be getting ready to step up to the plate. We are not going to stay in your country forever. If you will not fight for your own country and safety, why should ANYONE
ELSE do so? Your people have had PLENTY of time to train. If you are so sure that "insurgents" are just waiting for us to leave, start a neighborhood watch and communication system in your own community. Make plans, NOW, to deal with these insurgents. You're burning daylight, pal. You had better get going.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Plain Jane, Somewhere, AZ — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:57:32 GMT

So just out of curiosity for those who seem to be so against the idea of pulling out (by the way this is well over a year away, not tomorrow or next week), when do we draw the line? How long does it take to train the Iraqis to do their own dirty work? We've been training them for seven years now. We're giving them another 16-19 months for more training. Either they're the dumbest human beings on the planet or they're just lazy. They've had enough training. They just don't want to take the reins.

Will extremists pop up again? Probably. Though we're more to blame for that than anything by sticking our nose where it didn't belong in the first place. But if so it's because the Iraqis didn't take the initiative to prevent it. Obviously the average Joe in Iraq knows it's a possibility. If their own peace-keepers can't figure it out and prepare for it, there was no hope for them anyway. We can't be there forever. Unlike Germany and other nations where we kept a presence for decades to remove and prevent another hostile take-over by some dictatorship, WE invaded Iraq without cause. They weren't invaded by someone else whom we tried to free them from. We ARE the invaders and thus a pull-out means we're freeing them from our invasion. The extremists have always been there. Nothing we do now or ever will get rid of them. It's up to the Iraqis themselves to prepare for and defend themselves against this inevitability. That's my opinion anyway.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

fkim — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:59:07 GMT

Why are we there in the first place? That's the question.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

mra — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:03:25 GMT

Been there 7 years, nothing hasty about the withdrawal. Perhaps if we see massive "Please stay" protests like the "Get out" protests...

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

mra — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:04:06 GMT

Maybe they can ask the UN to send troops.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

David in Dalls — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:05:28 GMT

Perhaps the "fear" of US withdrawal will force the Iraqis to stop-look-listen and foster and understanding that they MUST control their destiny now that their "parents" are kicking them out of the house. We, the USA, should not be expected to support them forever. If they self destruct because of bad decisions made after we leave, so be it.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Randy Nemec, Redwood City, CA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:08:32 GMT

Fact, Iraqi's have to defend their own country. Fact, They want us out by 2011. Yes it was a complete waste of time, treasure and, lives. These things are incontrovertible, all the rest of the blather by the right wingnuts on these comments is self evident. Stay there for years at 12 billion a month. Really?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

M. JOHNSON — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:15:58 GMT

I’m not too religious- but doesn’t anyone pay attention to the bible; or history for that matter? People in that region have been fighting FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS!!!! What are we doing spending BILLIONS of dollars in a country who has an ECONOMIC SURPLUS when we can’t even provide HEALTHCARE & JOBS for OUR OWN PEOPLE??!!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ann Chambersburg, Pa. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:16:07 GMT

My son did 2 tours in Iraq. What you did not see on TV is the people crying thanking our troops for being there helping them
The one thing he said to me was. We either fight the terrorist here now or in our own country when it happens and it will

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

ViroGen, Paonia, CO — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:17:36 GMT

PLEASE PEOPLE! THIS IS A HOLY WAR! Nothing we do will EVER change this! We can keep troops there forever and this Iraqi internal war would never end. Bush messed up. Where were the WMD? Why were we there in the first place? Iraq has over 600k military/police in force now. How long do we need to hold their hands? I feel for the Iraqi people, I do, but this is a hard decision to make for Obama. I think his plan is good. Afghanistan is where we should have been in the first place. That is where the 9/11 terrorists came from.

Look, holy wars have been going on for centuries. Nothing will change these. Democracy, or the idea of, is not in the agenda for those fighting these wars in the middle east. We have stayed longer in Iraq this time as apposed to Bush Sr. We took out the dictator who killed his own people and kept them poor and starving. We have lost thousands of US military souls. No more hand holding. Iraq needs to take responsibility for their country now. They have the numbers, they have been fighting since they were kids... come on, what else do they need? WE CAN'T STOP HOLY WARS. THESE PEOPLE DIE FOR THEIR GOD(s). THERE IS NO SENSE OR REASONING WITH PEOPLE WHO FIGHT AND KILL FOR THESE REASONS.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Robert C Mineral Ridge,OH. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:23:21 GMT

Perhaps we should inist that Iraq, Pay for 25-50% of costs, of our armed sources in their country. I'm sure I read that they have large amounts of cash in our banks from their oil products. By paying this their security teams maybe more interested in learning their jobs faster.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Allen, Albuquerque, New Mexico — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:27:22 GMT

My brother is serving his 3rd tour there. He has told me countless times that the people still need our help. When we leave, that place is going to be turned upside down.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Don Nightengale — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:37:07 GMT

Maybe the next time a "wag the dog" Right Wing, misanthropic, presidential freak like GW asks permission to "invade" a sovereign nation with a legitimate government, we'll think twice about getting ourselves into positions like we have in Iraq. We destroyed two countries thanks to that peanut brained, redneck, Howdy Doody idiot GW, and his puppet bossing big banks and global corporations. Actually, we won't have to worry about foreign involvement much longer, we're going to be too busy fighting to save what's left of America at home.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Tim, North Miami, Fl — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:37:17 GMT

Iraqi's are now concerned over our withdraw? Where were these people during the Bush years? That's right, killing our troops and throwing shoes at our President. They got what they deserve...Obama is president...we're leaving...to hell with them! Let them all kill each other!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Dave — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:37:27 GMT

How about a Canadian perspective? Canada got involved in WW1 at the beginning - 1914 and remained till it ended. When WW2 came along, we were there at the beginning - 1939. These were world wars, important wars, but you didn't joint until 1917 (WW1) and 1941(WW2) Where were you when the rest of the world was calling on you? But you guys jumped single handed into Vietnam, lost big time, pulled out, causing major genocide by the Khmer Rouge. You get involved in Afghanistan...did you not learn anything from the Russians? As a matter of fact, the CIA helped the Afghans defeat the Russians, now you are fighting them yourselves? You attack Iraq, why? We're still not sure on that one, but you got rid of a dictator, who although may have been ruthless, at least held a ruthless country together. When are you going to learn you can never invade a foreign country and win, unless you plan on occupying it? This is why Americans are not greeted well when they travel abroad. I love you guys, but seriously, you need to think more before you start throwing your weight around the world!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

LouH — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:48:28 GMT

It'stime theat Iraq take responsibility for its own future. Time has come to pass the baton. Wringing hands and worrying won't do. There are no suprises being dropped upon the Iraqi's. They know who their enemies are and need to take responsibility for their own welfare. The Iraqi people are capable, intelligent and now must be able. Peace to the people of Iraq.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ender, Indianapolis IN — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:51:56 GMT

It occurs to me that WHENEVER the US leaves Iraq there is the possibility of things falling apart. The question is, how much more money do you plan to funnel into Iraq, with people losing jobs, homes, and livelihood back home in America? Seems to me that you're putting out fires in faraway places while your own house is burning. The US never had any business in Iraq, and it is prudent to leave prudently.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Chet OKC, OK — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:56:09 GMT

I'm for pulling out of Iraq when it is secure. I hope this plan works. Pres. Obama has hopefully listened to his experts in the military and those on the ground. If not, then he is making a huge mistake. Either way, there is a time that the Iraqi's must take control of the country. BUT telling everyone in the world about the date is a HUGE mistake that WILL cost lives, Iraqi and most likely Americans. I refuse to HOPE this plan works. Hope is NOT what you bank on in a military conflict. I will agree with Sen. McCain, I will be cautiously optimistic.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

TN Woman — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:04:31 GMT

I fear a bloodbath after we are gone. God help them.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Skip, Roseburg, OR — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:04:33 GMT

If they want us to stay, then they can pay for it. Maybe with some of their oil?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Eddie "LongShanks" King MPRI/KOCT, FOB Yankee, Kuwait — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:05:46 GMT

We (the USA) invaded on lies told by George "Mission Accomplished" Bush and Dick "Darth Vader" Cheney.

Our well meaning troops slaughterd 10's of thousands innocent Children, Women and Men through Collateral damage, not my numbers!, go to ARCENT Website, its their numbers (US Military numbers).

It is time to leave, we lose (Ha, ha, ha), Al-Queda is still there, anything that starts wih a lie, always ends in failure. I am laughing my head off, looks like America's campaign of Imperialism is coming to lackluster and weak end. All you America is number 1 people, you just got whipped by the Middle East extremist. I'm laughing my bloody head off.

Obama is on the right track, God Bless him. we love him in Kuwait keep that money coming, we American COntractors love it.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

T.H. Graham, Anchorage, Alaska — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:08:09 GMT

I do not see the US leaving as early as President Obama says. If we do history will repeat itself and we will be back there within ten years, just like the last gulf war ended 1993, we did not finish it....started in 2003, lets not forget that during those ten years we were still fighting and droping bombs on Iraq, Operation Northern and Southern watch. Let us not repeat the mistakes of the past. But with war we always do, Politicians are an expert of hype, propaganda, and speeches and nothing else. Get the Politicians and Media out of the mix and let the military fix this already. Create a permament base in Iraq, and have that as our base of operations

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ramon Buel — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:08:21 GMT

I am a contractor. This is the easiest money I have ever made.

I hope we stay here in Iraq, Bush put allot of money in my pocket.

long live Iraq

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Prem Kalicharan, Washington,DC — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:11:23 GMT

We had never had a reason to be in Iraq in the first place.
There is no such thing as a gradual pull out. Iraq will be
lead Iraqi style, call it democratic or islamic. Those Iraqis
who worked with us will find it difficult to survive
in that climate especially when they are labeled
as "sell-outs to the Americans"

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Will, Norfolk, VA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:12:32 GMT

Fellow citizens, I understand your concerns of troop withdrewal, but what we (the US) must comprehend is that the Iraq Govt wants a timetable for US troop withdrewal. No matter how we feel Pro or Con - the US govt must leave. Therefore our only issue should be how to withdrew in a safe and orderly manner. Because to stay in Iraq without the support of the Iraq Govt would make the US a hostile Occupying force.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Jack Bauer — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:15:09 GMT

So, whatever happened to the planend withdrawl that was negociated between the Bush Admin. and the Iraqi governemnt? It had the same timeline, but it was condiitonal on readiness and certain predetermiend milestones.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Proud Mom, Clarksville, TN — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:15:26 GMT

We all knew this was coming with Obama. I hope the liberals will be pleased with this plan. I hope Nancy Pelosi jumps up and down some more. I have 2 active service military sons. They are proud of their mission. If Obama actually does withdrawal troops early, everyone knows what will happen. How can anyone believe otherwise. We will close bases that were built from nothing. When the jets fire up and fly from Balad each and every day there is no doubt who's keeping the peace. Who will keep the peace when we are gone.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

DAN CLINE MOUNT VERNON,MO — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:15:58 GMT

WE ARE IN THIS WAR VIA A HUGE MISTAKE IN THE FIRST PLACE. REGARDLESS, WHEN WE LEAVE, IT WILL BE NO TIME UNTIL SOME TERRORIST GROUP TAKES OVER. I DON'T THINK IT MATTERS WHEN, EXCEPT TO SAVE US A LOT OF LIVES MOST IMPORTANTLY, AND SECOND, SAVE US A LOT OF EXPENSE. LET'S GET OUT OF IRAQ NOW.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Nick, Rocky Hill, CT — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:16:22 GMT

I think a US withdrawal will cause others to take responsibility in that region. The Iraqis will have to step to the plate and begin fending for themselves. The other free nations of the world will also have to pick up the slack as the US withdraws exhausted from their effort put forth since 2003. 6 years of blood and money drain. It is time for the world to take responsibility and for the US to stop playing Dad over there. This is what we should have waited for when Bush lied to the entire country and rushed us in there without UN backing in the beginning. This tarnished the US's reputation around the world as the US invaded a sovereign country without a valid reason. We need to strengthen our boarders and our security here.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

GJG, Grand Junction, Colorado — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:27:31 GMT

When will Americans wake up- there is no winning this war "War on Terrorism". We must realize that this is a global tactic of brining nations slowly to their demise. We need to reevaluate what war we want to be a part of. And that war should be the "War for National Strength" resulting for a collaboration of nations on the "War for Global Growth and Prosperity". Lives have not been lost without Victory- Lives have been given towards a goal of humanity that our country must realize through its strength first. We can not afford the slow demise of our country-"Economy-debt-job-loss-". We must make our country strong once again. And this is not accomplished by winning or losing. This is accomplished by the quality of our life- first

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Scott, NY, NY — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:32:17 GMT

After spending $1 trillion dollars on invading, occupying and rebuilding Iraq--and nearly bankrupting our own country in the process--its time for us to leave Iraq to the Iraqis and focus on rebuilding America-- like real patriots. Thank you President Obama for finally putting a end-date on this foreign policy fiasco.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

PRM in Louisville, KY — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:32:53 GMT

Can anyone explain why US troops are still in Europe?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Lawrence De Mayo, Binghamton, New York — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:33:26 GMT

Well, during the campaign Obama suggested that after the withdrawal from Iraq he would leave a force of 500 US soldiers in Baghdad to protect the american embassy and other assets. At least he now realises how ridiculous that idea was!

Unfortunately, while 35,000 to 50,000 have a much better chance of defending themselves then would 500 it is still not enough. If the Iraq government can not handle it then poof and we will have to figure out how to get our soldiers home. We kind of pulled if off when we left Vietnam so maybe we will kind of pull if off again, I sure hope so.

We are so close to actually ending this successfully I just wonder, President Obama is keeping your naive campaign promise more important then the security of the United States and the very lives of the Iraqi people? I guess not.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

JDettman — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:35:36 GMT

I think the time for Iraq's to rise up and take repsonsbility for their country. If it all falls back into chaos, they've got no one to blame but themselves.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Margaret Whiteside, Asheville, NC — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:40:49 GMT

Yes, extremists do what they please, and they have been doing it for years. They will be doing it whether we are there or we are not. We do not need to lose more Americans to this war. We have lost enough money for those private contractors to be there as well as our military. Let's take care of our own country for a change. Wrong country anyway. They did not want us there, but now they DO want us there? We cannot protect them forever.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Tom, Pittsburg, Texas — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:43:36 GMT

Today President Obama finally set a clear definition of what winning the war in Iraq is. Under the Bush administration, winning the war meant: getting rid of WMDs, then "Regime Change", then it was establishing a democratic form of government, then it was stability, etc., etc.
Technically, we won the war as soon as American troops rolled into Baghdad and Saddam Hussein and his military and political party were no longer in power.
When did "Nation Building" and the stability of that nation, define what winning a war is? Isn't rebuilding a government and the stabilizing a government the job of a defeated nations liberated people to accomplish? If those people want peace and stability, won't they fight for it? We did after all, didn't we?
I'm not saying we shouldn't help, especially since we were so wrong about the WMDs, but six years of help and thousands of our solders lives is more than should be expected of any nation. Isn't it time Iraq's people took control of their own destiny?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Mitch Jones MPRI/Iraq — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:46:49 GMT

I worked in Iraq for 2 years-don't believe the hype-they want us out now!!

How would you feel if someone, invaded your town, killed allot of your neighbors and like unwlecomed houseguest, refuse to leave.

I've been there, they want us out. The only Iraqis that don't want us to leave are he ones working for the US Military/Embassy, they have never had it so good.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Marie Weber Matteson, IL — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:49:59 GMT

111 Democrats voted to authorize force to remove Saddam Hussein - Bush's war. 3 Republicans in name only support Nobama's stimulus plan - bipartisan effort!???????
God Bless GWB & USA!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

cj, gulfport, fl — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:50:59 GMT

And for all you war-mongers: just how long would you have us stay in Iraq? We cannot be the world's babysitter forever; that is one of the reason's our economy is in the toilet! We send the most troops, equipment, and money and we are continually left holding the bag!! For all those countries we have helped and supported over the years, have any of you heard of any of them coming to help us?? NO!! Yet they have the Ba*ls to spew their anger because they depend on our economy for their own!! It is disgusting to say the least!! We will not get anywhere with our own country if we continue to spend 11B a month for them. We have other business nationwide and worldwide to attend to!! You cannot "win" anything with guns alone!! And whether we've "won" or not, our troops have never given their lives in vain!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Brad, Lusby, Maryland — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:51:04 GMT

Iraq will implode within a year after our total with drawl of troops; then what will President Obama have to say for himself and the DEMs in congress. I’m sorry for cutting and running, but the American people wanted us out and some in Iraq hated us. The current Iraqi government isn't strong enough to take on Al-Qaeda and the Islamists; some of the posts are correct they (Al-Qaeda) will wait, train, recruit, and attack when they know they have the advantage. Unfortunately I foresee a civil war erupting in Iraq by 2011, with Iran backing the Shiites and Jordan or Saudi Arabia backing the Sonnies. What of our troops that had fought and died for the freedoms Iraqi’s have today, it will have been in vain, thanks DEMs. The terrorists have already won; they changed public opinion and our politics.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

mark — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:51:53 GMT

i say after 9-11 we should of just bombed the middle east and devastated there terrorists organizations from the skys are troops do not belong on the ground over there.. are battle was against terrorist that attacked us.. we should of gotten rid of the terrorist and gotten out but no we stuck around to try and fix everything... and as for are troops in all these other countrys bring them home to as someone said troops have been in korea for 50 years bring them home we got no buiness there.. and bomb the mountains that bin laden is hiding after we pull out us intelligence from afghanistan

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

DC Smith — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:52:21 GMT

oh well..what a shame. Guess they'll have to fix their own problems now. No more US soldiers dying in vain. Enough of that has occurred already since our disgraceful ex-president took us there under completely bogus circumstances. We lost thousands to rid that ungrateful country of one madman. That is done. Now, pick yourselves up Iraq. There are many other places in this awful world where our service men can do noble work. The work they did in Iraq was unecessary to say the least. It was a sham from the get go..now get out.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Steven Friedman Haughton , LA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:54:02 GMT

Jared Black in Idaho is WRONG!! This is the same old B******T line of propaganda that has kept us in this LIE OF A WAR for longer than it took to WIN WORLD WAR II, REMEMBER??? The "now they know the date an will plan around that is B@#@#@#@T!! I have DONE MY TOUR Baghdad 04-05 w.1st CAV!! 16 of my friends have DIED THERE!! Let me tell you of the last -(No Names)25 yrs old / Silver Star holder / 2 Purple hearts/ Soldier of the Year his Division 3 times running!/Wife, 2 very young sons, a REAL American HERO Gawddamn you, KIA Baghdad '07 on 2nd tour, DO YOU WANT MORE??? BECAUSE I HAVE MORE!!!! Iraq is the most corrupt country on earth, THAT is what this is all now about and has been for years,all that MONEY! Did all the Warriors sent to Iraq that were KIA die in vain? You AIN'T EVEN GOT A CLUE!!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

JesterJames — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:55:08 GMT

I am afraid this might be one of those things like overdue invoices. The longer it's overdue the slimmer the chance of it ever be paid. If we are gonna pullout, pullout ASAP, no dilly dally. The longer we delay the more likely something will happen that will delay it some more. As for the Iraqis, we glued most of their country back together, I say we hand it back to them and get out before it falls apart again. :P

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ernie, Charlotte, NC — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:55:39 GMT

Im a former U.S. Marine who served in the Gulf war. As much as we like the idea of not allowing terrorists to succeed, it is not right for us to stay there any longer. Morally, we should not occupy another country.

Imagine if we were occupied by Russia in the 70's and 80's. Most of us would have been trying to sabotage any of their efforts. I know I would have been. I know how much I disliked the Russians growing up. And how people were terrified of a nuclear attack. It would have been worse than this terrorism we have seen. As much as we would like to make the world "Good," it's never going to happen. Anyways, we just don't belong there anymore.

I read some sentiments that the terrorists just have to wait us out until we leave...well, even if it's 10 years, they'll still wait us out. Their hatred for Christian nations(the US being one of them) goes back hundreds of years. Are we naive enough to think that it's going to go away completely if we just stay 5 more years or some other period of time? Please......

Just think how much hatred we would have for the country that occupied us would be. I can't even imagine.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Mohamed MALLECK Toronto, Canada — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:56:11 GMT

There won't be any chaos whatsoever; in any case nothing even remotely resembling the apocalypse that the catatrophic US invasion has unleashed on the country. The sooner the American invaders are out, the better. According to what I read in Arab media and on the Juan Cole site informed comment, even Muqtada Sadr and a very appreciable proportion of Kurds are eager to collaborate with Nouri-al-Maliki, even though more courageous Iraqis believe that Maliki has been too much of a 'collaborator' -- the Vichy/ Marshall Petain-type of collaborator with the Nazis

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Robin, Ohio — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:56:57 GMT

The idea that when we withdrawl out troops, all of a sudden the soldiers who died will have died in vain is nonsense. We have to withdrawl sometime. We can't stay forever. We are occupying a foreign country and had no business being there in the first place. Do we really need to stay longer so more can die? Will that make the other's sacrifice more justified? I think not. It doesn't matter when we withdraw, they are a patient people. Whether we withdraw now or we withdraw 10 years from now, the outcome will be the same. A long as politics and religion are mixed in that area (and they will awalys be so) there will be no peace. Our own country is in an economic tailspin and we can't afford to do this any longer. Remember we forced democracy on them, they didn't cry out and ask for it. Do you think they will keep something they never actually asked for?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Land of confusion — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:57:20 GMT

The scary part isn't what will happen to Iraq once we leave, the scary part is reading the absolute hatred now days that conservatives have for liberals and what might spark another civil war in this country. (Dave Butler). Are there any sane people out there?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

DJ, Salem, MA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:57:38 GMT

To all you idiots on here who are calling this a "withdrawl" or "retreat", read agian the text of the article and the part that says we will leave 35,000 troops over there. We did not go and build one of the biggest bases in the world over there to just pack up and leave. We will have troops in Iraq for decades to come, and anybody who didn't understand that when they voted for Obama is an uninformed idiot.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Mossad, Boston, MA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:57:56 GMT

Hasty withdrawal? Excuse me? How long have we been there? It's time to get the troops out now. Beginning today, and in 18 months ALL troops should be out. Period.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Paul Gorton Columbus Wi — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:01:33 GMT

How long does it take to train and equip local security forces. The answer is less time than it will take to clean up the mess if we withdraw too early. Patience is a small price to pay for a free stable Iraq. Lets not throw away what we have so heavily paid for. Nation building takes longer than a made for TV movie.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Tom, Pittsburg, Texas — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:16:47 GMT

President Obama has finally defined what "Winning the Iraq war" is. Under the Bush administration the definition kept changing. First, it was WMDs, then regime change, then establishing a democracy, then security. Its hard to win a game if the coach keeps moving the goal post.
Technically, we won the war in Iraq on the day our troops took control of Baghdad, Saddam Hussein and his party were no longer in power and his army defeated. We could have left a month or two after and let the country and those that wanted a democratic form of government fight for it, just like our nation did.
Morally though, we couldn't leave Iraq in the shape it was in and with a people that have never known democracy. We had to help rebuild the government and the security of Iraq. However, there comes a time when you have to let the Iraqi people do their own fighting and provide for their own security. President Obama has set that time.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Robert W. Prell — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:18:40 GMT

Telling the enemy when we are withdrawing is just plain foolish. Dear Lord please watch over the 35,000
or 50,000 brave men and women we will leave behind in
"non combat" roles.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

J. Overlin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:24:42 GMT

Just because Sadam used or gave away all his wmd's doesn't mean he didn't have any. Go to National Geographic and check out the Kurds. Look at the thousands of dead people laying about. We should ave done this during the first gulf war but didn't because the DEMOCRATS were in charge of congress and wouldn't let Norman do it. So years later, here we are. Same-o Same-o Viet Nam. I was in both places so I know! Democrats have this narrow view.... If we can't win immediately we will say we didn't have all the facts or somebody lied to us, so let's cut and run.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

SFC Mike Devinny FT Myers, VA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:25:59 GMT

Thank you President Obama!

I am on my second tour here in Iraq.

It sucks, and I feel my efforts are futile.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Adept Havelock — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:27:07 GMT

We've given the Iraqi people their nation. We should provide all the material support, intelligence, training, and funding they require.

That said, we've given them their nation. It's now entirely on them to decide if they are willing to fight to keep it. We've done far more than our share.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

david armstrong, little rock, ar — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:28:52 GMT

the people of Iraq, historically, have been the most contentious, ungrateful, argumentative, critical, corrupt and opinionated group in the mid east. I don't hear any thanks from them for the work we have done and the lives we have lost. I am sure some are uneasy. However, nothing
we have done or will do, well intentioned as it is, will change them.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Yank, Nashville, Tn. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:30:03 GMT

I have never heard since the first night of aerial bombing in Iraq of the Iraqi's ever spending any of their own treasury on their defense. They supposively have the world's second largest oil reserve and that is the only commodity they have for trade. Isn't it about time the Saudi Arabian government allows them to sell oil and pay for the expenses of the American government. I'm sure America paid for the rebuilding of the Bagdag mueseum that reopened a few weeks ago. We are now promising $900 million to add to the Saudi's $1.2 billion for for the residents of the Gaza Strip. Enough is enough for those people. I am against the US Government funding these countries and now allowing them access here thru immigration.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

arthur cleveland, ohio — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:37:14 GMT

We will have to wait and see about the doom and gloom of Iraq withdrawal. I am playing the waiting game about Obama and his policies. But as a Vietnam veteran, my gut tells me that history will repeat itself.People voted and were very liberal after Vietnam.But what I fear the most is an attack from muslims already in this country. Does anyone realize that there are already terrorist training camps in this country, and all they have to do is sic their dogs on us. People better wake up to the fact that Obama is ultra liberal, and he could change sides. The people of Iraq will have to fight just like the Israelis did after Israel was declared a sovereign nation.Personally, I think that everything will be alright, Obama does not want to lose face. And the shadow army of blackwater will not go away.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Douglas Miller, Detroit, Michigan — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:38:50 GMT

So just as peace and freedom are about to flourish in Iraq, there is President Obama pulling the rug out from under those long suffering people. Terrorists everywhere are celebrating today as the administration without conscience snatches defeat from the jaws of victory. Islamo-fascists are high-fiving each other while planning the wholesale slaughter of Americans here at home. Thank you, President Obama, for cheapening the price of life in America and for turning us all into targets.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Tom, Pittsburg, Texas — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:39:51 GMT

Unlike us, the terrorists have always had the luxary of waiting us out. After all, the terrorists live there or just a country or two away. Wheather we leave next week, next year or in ten years, the terrorists can take over the day we leave, if the Iraqi people allow them to do so.
We've taught the Iraquis how to drive the car, now its time for them to pass the driving test and hit the road. Lets hope they don't drive off a cliff.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

bkraul, Memphis, TN — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:40:22 GMT

What the heck!! First these people say get out of our country, you invaders...then when we do get ready to get out, they don't want us out...talk about stupidity...

Let the troops come home. Newsflash for Jared. Dying is dying, set the "in vain" issue aside. If we stay soldiers will continue to die. If we leave, then that's it. We will honor our fallen, and cut our losses. Common Sense 101.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

matt, california — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:46:52 GMT

Well, they can't have it both ways. According to what the BBC and other sites say, the average Iraqi hates the US and wants us out ASAP. So which is it? My opinion is that a civil war between the Shiites and the Sunni's will begin as soon as the US leaves. Iran will support the Shiite's, while Saudi Arabia will finance and support the Sunni's.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Matt, NJ — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:52:58 GMT

Giving the Iraqi's a blank check as far as our gold and blood is not the right answer. A timeline was necessary.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Patrick, Omaha, NE — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 19:56:44 GMT

Um, we've come to an agreement with the sovereign Iraqi government to have ALL troops out by 2011. They've told us to get out, we want to get out, so we're getting out. The debate is about how, not if.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Matt, NJ — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:03:28 GMT

I love all the Repugs on this board yelling and screaming about getting out of a country we SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN IN. What would you rather us do? Stay forever? You want a 51st state called IRaq? How about Iraqo to make it sound more American? Idiots want to fight wars with other people's blood. Let them know we're leaving. If they can't get their house in order with the money and blood we've already provided then they deserve to be part of a bloodbath. So long as its not Americans' blood.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Bruce Des Moines — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:09:52 GMT

This is what I don't get. I thought the libs were for the little guy and the downtrodden. I guess they have no qualms at all about the slaughter of innocent, ordinary folks in Iraq that will occur when OB, Nancy, Harry and the rest of the libs get their wish and pull our troops out. Iran, Syria and all of the radical gihadists love the liberal infidels who don't really give a damn about anything except making their political points and spending defense money on their various social programs and inane social agenda rather than on a military action that could bring lasting peace to the Mideast and finally reduce the threat to world instability from that region. The blood of the poor, ordinary Iraqi citizens that is about to flood the desert over there is clearly on the hands of OB, the Dems in Congress and any lib that voted for any of them.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Razz P.G.B.C. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:14:33 GMT

Well a lot of good comments,,yet as usual a lot of negativity,,The neg. part Iv'e gotten used to,, though the world might be alot better if the Nay sayers would change their tune a little..But hey thats not going to happen...I would like to be optimistic for the sake of the troops over there, I'm sure those in the face every day of those that would kill for no more reason than to kill would like to feel they have done there jobs well and Iraq will be a good place to live and also a place to visit {which most certainly I would like to go there one day}I am and will stay optimistic that the Iraqi people will fight like Hell to have peace and solidarity within their borders.Just like teaching a kid to ride a bike at some point you have to let go and allow them to ride on their own.I believe they can do it and as long as the U.S. remains in the background for advice and maybe a little help along the way,,we all will see Iraq and its people in a new light....May their God be with them in their new world and freedom.. Razz

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

working poor — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:17:22 GMT

Although I feel sorry for the citizens of Iraq, I am more concerned about my government taking care of the needs of its own citizens. The Iraqis may fear chaos there, but I fear the chaos here if our economy doesn't improve. I fear not being able to afford the basic needs of children if my husband and I lose our jobs. Right now, we both work full time but can barely meet our obligations and we live in a very modest home with 2 old vehicles. We never take vacations, never eat at restaurants, never spend any money on social activites, and buy most of our clothing at garage sales. Yet our income is just above the guidelines to receive any government assistance. It's very hard for me to swallow the fact that we have spent so much money helping people halfway across the world.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Mr. Herrera, Huntsville, Al — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:19:51 GMT

this is the worst blunder the U.S has ever gotten herself into, mainly because of Bush and the lame duck Congress, who voted in favor of attacking and occcupying a country based on lies and fear instead of facts. Obama will fare no better, he will make worse the error of Bush's ways. 8yrs still no answer, hundreds of thousands of live on both sides, still no answer, what is truly wrong with this picture? and Afganistan is next, yet again!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Ken Morford — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:25:43 GMT

Most people believe everything the news tells them, if you believe that this war was over OIL or WMD, you are so sadly mistaken, the war was to rid the US of a real threat, A leader that if we would have ignored would have come up with the means to attack anyone who stood in his way, I am glad we went in and removed the threat, my only problem with this is that we hung around and started dragging this out, you all blame Bush, you better re think that, there is a whole lot more people involved in this mess, he is just an easy target.

We should have gone in, taken out Saddam and got the heck out of there, and told our troops good job mission accomplished, but now do our troops really know what there mission is?? Is it really to stop terroirism or is it to keep a country from civil war?? It sure isn't for free oil, we still are paying for it.

I agree we need to get out, we should have been out a long time ago, but it really isn't going to matter a whole as to when we do, because once the US is out, what happens next in IRAQ is anybodies guess, most likely civil war and unless it endangers the US, we need to keep out of it

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

John Hendrick — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:28:34 GMT

The Iraqi's had democracy handed to them in a basket with a bow on top. They didn't earn it, nor do they cherish or even realize what they have. I give them 4 to 5 years at the most. Their people certainly aren't united, nor deserving, or thankful of the freedoms that U.S. troops provided for them.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Andre Anthony Rivera — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:28:57 GMT

The Iraqi's threw a shoe at the one man that did not abandon them. When we are gone (minus the contingent we leave behind) there will be chaos..and oh how they will wish we never left, and they will wish they had a man like President Bush who proved his resolve and commitment (to the Iraqi's and the US Troops). This is starting to remind me of the Clinton years...on the cover great things happening for us at home...but the repercussions of irresponsible and faulty defense strategies will be felt for years to come...just like with Clinton...open your eyes America and read History! Clinton is the reason 9/11 occured and why we had no dependable intel on the ground or the proper force necessary at the time..it took years to build it up to where we are today because of his bludering...Somalia? Tanzania? USS COLE? OSAMA?

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Debbie, Palmdale, CA — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:38:48 GMT

By all means, bring our troops home; but be careful how you do it!!! The Iraqis are only crawling, but they need to learn to walk before our troops are out. So many lives are at stake!! This truly is a catch-22.

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Claudia, Dillon, Colorado — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:43:28 GMT

So, are these the same people that want us out of their country? The same people who made a hero out of a man who threw shoes at our president that is the one who sent Americans there to save their butts in the first place (wether you like Bush or not that is diserspectful!)? The same people that march the streets in protest when a civilian dies? (I'm sorry about that, but that's called casualty of war!) Well the Iraquis need to get their a**es together and defend their country! We can't keep sending our soldiers to die for them and keep spending money there that we need to be spending in our own country! As far as I'm concernded they are a bunch of ungrateful people and we need to cut our losses and get out of there ASAP!

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Razz P.G.B.C. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:43:40 GMT

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Andre Anthony Rivera — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 20:49:07 GMT

To answer the person above...we are there because we committed forces a decade before when the dictator of Iraq elected to invade a smaller and weaker nation who requested the aid from allies, the US being one of many. After "owning" them on the battlefield we set up ground rules, because that’s what civilized nations do today...in the past we would have simply slaughtered the losing side and pillaged what’s left. Now we make written agreements...one of the main agreement was to ensure by inspection that they aren’t going to make MORE WMD's...the question was not whether Saddam has in the past...that was an already known fact. He murdered thousands in a blatant demonstration of genocide when used nerve gas against the Kurds. Bottom line: When Saddam refused to let us inspect we gave him months to reconsider. He didn’t...we attacked and that’s one of the main reason why we are there. Based on the intelligence on the ground that is what we knew (and lest us forget that the reason why our intel was so flawed was due to the cuts in the defense budget Clinton issued during his term). And why have we been there so long? Because we had to rebuild the nation or we would be facing another Afghanistan in 5-10 years (actually way worse due to strategic location among a multiplicity of other factors). The American Revolution lasted from 1775-1783 and even after being recognized as a sovereign nation it took many decades to iron out the details that ultimately ended in a Civil War. However, American's expect Iraq, a nation with no previous unified structure, to have had a harmonious aftermath after the last brass case landed in 2003. We were not invaders, we were and are liberator's, I was there...so go back to your cafe latte and reality shows and leave politics and warfare to those that do it for you...and provide you with the right to criticize us. nations do today..in the past we would have simply slaugtered the losing side and pillaged whats left. Now we make written agreements...the main agreement was to ensure by inspection that they arent going to make MORE WMD's...the question was not whether Saddam has in the past..that was an already known fact. He murdered millions in a blatant demostartion of genecide when used against the Kurds. Bottem line: When Saddam refused to let us inspect we gave him months to reconsider..he didnt...we attacked and there we are. And why so long? Because we had to rebuild the nation or we would be facing another Afghanistan in 5-10 years (actually way worse due to strategic location). The American revolution latsed from 1775-1783 and even after being recongnized as a sovereign nation it took many decades to iron out the details that ultimately ended in a Civil War...However, American's expect Iraq, a nation with no previous unified structure, to have had a harmonious aftermath after the last brass case landed in 2003. We were not invaders, we are liberator's, I was there...go back to your cafe latte and reality shows and leave politics and warfare to those that do it for you...and provide you with the right to critisize us

Many Iraqis fear ‘hasty’ withdrawal

Earl — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:02:16 GMT

America need to pull it's aremed forces out of all 'occupied' countries and territories, --start concentrating on repairing this country (USA)-- we have failing schools, failing infrastructure'we cant even make a decent car anymore--how sad is that?
I do believe president Obama will make a difference if we only give him some time,---I am so happy that we finally have a articulate president!---Thank you ,thank you!
Earl