Making it up as we go along

john tesh — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:32:24 GMT

THe flock of seagulls wrote a good song about Iran..

Making it up as we go along

J. Ross White, San Diego, CA. — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:48:00 GMT

Back to basics - Bush & Company know only one approach - get people who are bought and paid for to do their dirty work - Do you think that Gen. Petraeus's rapid rise from a single star general to a four star general is an accident? He is also bought and paid for and will say and do whatever the Bush Admin. orders.

Making it up as we go along

Joe Speranzi, Spokane Wash. — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:55:33 GMT

It is time for our military to gather up their belongings and leave Iraq.
Regardless of whether we stay or leave, the situation will not get any better...only worse. We stay, we lose more Americans and we continue to "Police" sectarian violence and an all-out civil war.

And no, they won't follow us over here, if we leave.
That arguement holds absolutely no credence. If anyone is "Going to follow us over here", they're either already here or they're not the people we're fighting in Iraq.

Our presence in Iraq only escalates the hate for our country...the longer we stay, the harder it will be to begin withdrawing. Time to come home!
Thank You

Making it up as we go along

USA — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:55:45 GMT

This is a bunch of nonsense. Grow up Engel.

Making it up as we go along

Ambrose Wilton CT — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:57:48 GMT

Richard can you get some men on the street interviews.
Good to see you back out there, glad to see someone understands your value.
Keep em coming, and somehow keep your head down over there. So easy for some to manipulate. Be smart, be safe.

Making it up as we go along

Jerry, Wisc — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:59:38 GMT

The only way to end this farce is to shoot bush and his buds. He has lied cheated and stolen his way all throughout his dictatorship. I would gladly give to any terrorist group that could rid the world of the nightmare.

Making it up as we go along

Robert Randle, Tacoma, WA — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:07:41 GMT

It has been said that "Music is the universal language," and nothing could possibly be closer to the truth. My recommendation is to sponsor a Lionel Ritchie concert in Baghdad or somewhere near the "Green Zone" in Iraq. Mr. Ritchie recently held a concert in Paris, France where he almost mesmerized those culturally sophisticated and picky 'Parisians.' If he can do that, then he should be able to get through to the iraqis, Iranians, Syrians, Mujhadeen militia and Al-Qaida fighters who are trying to kill American soldiers while at the same time trying to preserve their culture.

Making it up as we go along

Ieah PettePiece Long Beach, Calif — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:09:59 GMT

Well, that was certainly not enlightening! We are as my father would say stuck like a goat in the stantion! We can not, must not simply pull out and leave, yet how much longer do we intend to stay trying to move forward?! In any war there is only so much another country can do inside a country that is suffering from internal strife! Human nature causes us to want to "HELP" but we Americans are not Iraqi's and thinking that with enough time we can form the Iraqi people into our way of thinking is rather insane in a large way! I myself am US CItizen and also a citizen of Israel but I have no dellusions about what sort of country I want to live in! I love the freedom of a modern democracy...I could never survive in the constant upheavel of a country where religion is mixed with government, suffering from a still birth! I could never submit to the religious rules, the hard line between men and women, the suffering and poverty and turmoil of Israel! Neither would my friends who still live there want to live here, our country is our safety zone, Did anyone ever ask the average Iraqi how he/she would prefer to live? Did it ever cross our minds to poll the people to see which they prefer? War is a terrible tragedy, not all Iraqi's are terrorist. Likewise not all US citizens are in favor of democracy...how and where this ends may be anyone's guess. The real tragedy is that this war could lead to a larger war in that region of the world!Should we bring our troops home and abandon hope? I think not! What we have begun there, we must some how continue to an end! Otherwise we may be the ones in a civil war! Who knows how many terrorist are loose already here in our country where thousands of undocumneted aliens roam free every day! If we truly love our country than we must continue to fight terror on all levels! Otherwise the terrorist win! Perish the thought!

Making it up as we go along

Bill in Chicago — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:10:38 GMT

Sadly, all of this is irrelevant to the real War on Terror. We're in the wrong country, period. Anyone who hasn't yet figured that out should take a look at this:

www.asecondlookatthesaudis.com

All of the lives and treasure we're squandering in Iraq have truly been wasted. They are not making us (or the Iraqi people, for that matter) any safer. And those who truly are responsible for 9/11 have gotten away with it scot-free.

Making it up as we go along

Chris Ryan,Mt. Vernon,Maine — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:15:51 GMT

"We have now completed major operations in Iraq". It has been four years, we are making no headway! We are visitors in a very mixed up and violent part of the world. The USA is not the answer, as we empty our bank accounts. This was a retaliation, on a threat for Bush Seniors life. And it will go down in history as obne of the biggest military blunders of all time. We should send in LA SWAT, we have tried everything else. The general just put one more band aid on a wound that will never heal!

Making it up as we go along

Jim, the Mississippi Delta — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:28:22 GMT

Richard's assesment--as usual--is right on target. I respect General Petraeus, but I think he's just's guessing on how to best manage a very bad situation. America simply cannot be the world's policeman. As a veteran, I am very concernd that repeated deployments to Iraq will weaken our military. To sum it up, as Popeye used to say in the cartoons: "What a revoltin' development this is!"

Making it up as we go along

JW — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:41:52 GMT

Bush doesn't care one bit how many more lifes are lost due to his idiotic lunacy about staying over there and handing this problem off to the next president.
Just as this loon has done all of his very sorry life.
He gets in a bind, either declares bankruptcy, or has somebody else come in and bail his sorry butt out.
This has been the theme of this immoral idiots entire life.
He has no compunction about letting other people die because of his idiotic mistakes and lets them continue to die until somebody else figures our how to solve his latest problem.

Making it up as we go along

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:51:11 GMT

Dear Richard, I wholeheartedly agree with you on the assessment of the conflict in Iraq regarding the strategies, goals and results. When the statue was toppled of Saddam and we eventually found him and he was later hanged that did not solve all the problems of the region. The violence continued throughout the country. The Shiites an Sunnis battle eachother and the US troops are caught in the middle of a civil war. General Petraeus is correct that there is 'no military solution' to the conflict in Iraq. This is going to take a long time. The US troops are caught in the middle of a civil war and a cold war. If Iran wants to be a dominant trader and supporter of Iraq then do so positively. It was nice to read that they are rebuilding the minarets of the Shrine in Samarra. I agree with you Richard "cold wars take a long time". Thank you for your wonderful insight and fine reporting. Stay safe as always! Peace to you and to all!

Making it up as we go along

Roger Warren, Anchorage, AK — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:10:11 GMT

I think we may have to accept the fact the Iran will be the leading influence and policy maker for a "new" Iraq. Anything the US does at this point is "tainted." Keeping the whole deck of cards from collapsing is about the only thing we have been able to do. But, maybe it should collapse. Let the "cards fall where they may." Keep a military prescence only to try and stop "ethnic cleasning" or genocide of any sort.

Making it up as we go along

Al Morrison — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:42:25 GMT

Richard:

Really fine article. First good short relevant summary I've seen.

Disagreements with you. There have never been any cold wars in Iraq. All have been hot wars. I cannot envision a cold war there. Religious wars, which have existed there for centuries hve always been hot violence. Britian knew this and withdrew. Belief systems and religions of zealots of belief systems don't become cold wars so history says. Such events usually disappear when one or both sides disappear in the backwaters of history do to famine and other disasters. The only possible end will be when and if the polulace get tired of killing and this seldom happens in religious wars.

The term go alng. We lied and created our own version of war and terrible destruction with bombs before we entered Iraq which the polulace will never forget. And history keep this story alive after those who were there suffered terrible death, injury, deprication and brutal conditions.

A cold war is not likely when we have helped create such destruction. We are a hated nation except for the good deeds of a few GIs which do not affect the brutality some of our GIs have committed.

I liked your summary but your conclusions about a cold war leaves me cold.

In addition there is the widespread chicanery pulled by our government and military from before we entered Iraq and which still exists in lying and cooking the books in a delayed withdraw. Now we have trapped ourselves for a long stay lest a quick withdrawal create even more havoc. Our nation is bankrupt economically and morally from this war

To make it worse, there was a better way it appears so all these expenditures in lives, money and reputation has no only been for naught but we are worse off now than we imagine and can correct.

Al Morrison
xzm@verizon.net

Making it up as we go along

MARK WELLMAN, BANGOR, MAINE — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:51:52 GMT

I think our gov is doing the responsible thing to preserving our world for a more peaceful future. I wish people could understand and foresee the ramifications of a democratic society in Iraq. Success breeds success. Freedom breeds success. Freedom breeds Freedom. What is wrong with that? And what will happen in the middle east if Iraq realizes freedom for its citizens?

Go Figure!

Making it up as we go along

Dr To — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 00:59:59 GMT

It's all quite simple really. al-Qaida attacked US to kick the US out of the Middle East. That's didn't work. US hit Afgh to get rid of the Taliban. That didn't work too well, but might given more effort. But OBL counterpart in the US, the Neocons, wanted to hit Saddam and what better excuse than 9/11. The military want along because the Pantagon was hit. Not to mention the possibility of large military bases in Iraq and the unlimited funding that comes along. Both sides became God's warriors, and dug themselves a million-foot rat hole where rats are manufactured faster than the US budget deficit.

Since Gen Petraeus is a straight talker he should stop the dancing and tell the American people the Real Deal - This is not a regular war. This is not a war on US security. This is not the stupid War on Terrorism. This is not even cold war. This is America's holy war in the middle of a land known to have thousand-year holy wars. And in a holy war, all the fancy strategies, tactics, high tech equipment, death and destruction, win or loose talks DOES NOT MATTER! Holy wars are fought to destroy or curtail the other side religion inspired hostilities. And that usually lasts at least fifty years, a hundred being more common. If that's not what the American people sought, that's what Bush delivered. 51% percent voted for him, Congress gave him authority - so stop the bitching. Bush will be gone soon. But the US will get to enjoy his gift for another 49 years. But that's not so bad. After all, Truman stopped MacArthur and we get to enjoy N. Korea for 65 years. With N. Korea coming to its end soon, isn't it God's will to have Iraq to play with for another century. If you find that a bit boring, you can easily add Iran.

Making it up as we go along

Richard Ussery Blanchard Oklahoma — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:00:41 GMT

Thats one small mess for a man. One giant mess for mankind.
I think general Petraeus and the house are dreaming about leaving Iraq.

I dont believe we'll ever actually leave Iraq, although we may have a reduction in troops over there.

Even if we do get things straight over there, we'll always need a lot of peace keepers.

I dont want another single soldier to injured or to die but, If we leave not only will we be leaving the USA wide open, we'll be sending a message to terrorist, that we are giving up, and they'll think, yes we can walk all over the USA, then al-queda will build up and organize there forces in Iraq as one massive unit. And does anyone out there want our soldiers to die in vain? I certainly DONT!

I want the ones who come home thinking: I was there for my country, and we won! Not for political gain from the congress.

Also imagine all the civilians there that will die, women, children, all left for al-queda to slaughter.

We maybe at war a long time but we do not want another no win like vietnam loosing thousands and thousands.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS AND THE USA

Making it up as we go along

Sara Johnston, Lynden, WA — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:12:30 GMT

I applaud Richard Engel for his continuing thoughtful coverage of the war in Iraq and today's succinct analysis is no exception.

I have gone back and forth on my position: do we stay in Iraq until we can leave it with some hope of stability? Or leave immediately to prevent any more pointless deaths that our valiant US troops and their families have suffered. I NEVER supported this war of agression against Iraq. Even if some small case could be made that there was some Al-Qaida activity inside Iraq before we invaded it, let's face it: it was not Saddam Hussein who orchestrated 9/11; Iraq did NOT have WMD; Iraq was NOT an imminent threat to the US. I think Cowboy-in-Chief Bush just wanted to haul out his six-guns and extract some revenge for 9/11 from somebody.

I always believed invading Iraq would engender more hatred of the US all over the Middle East and undermine our international credibility. It made no sense to me tactically either: through military history guerilla tactics can't be successfully battled by conventional troops and warfare. How can we have a "war" on "terror"--isn't that like shooting at ghosts?

In the meantime, we've so poisoned any potential sympathies among tentative allies who could have helped us get Osama bin Laden that we have let the person really responsible for 9/11 go uncaught and unpunished, while the world shakes it head at our misguided and dangerous course.

But now that we have gone in and destabilized Iraq how can we simply walk away and say, "oops! our bad..." I have been absolutely against the war all along, but is it really moral for us now to abandon the Iraqis and let all the worst things our enemies are saying about us be the last word the Iraqi people hear?

I don't know how we can fix this mess. It makes me heartsick to think how many Americans knew this war was a mistake from day one and our leaders didn't listen to us. What do we do now?

Making it up as we go along

Preston Rodrigue, La Place, LA — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:22:34 GMT

For all of the so-called progress we are making, have been making, these past 4 years, there is still no strategic justification, real or virtual, for our being in Iraq. All it would take for the American people to back this war is a statement by the administration of a real and unfabricated reason to make war. In my mind, there is only one reason to go to war in the 21st century and that is purely one of self-defense. The administration cannot demonstrate this necessary and sufficient condition for the war in Iraq.

Making it up as we go along

William Golji, San Diego, California — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:22:55 GMT

As the General said, Iraq will be a traumetized state for a long time to come. And, we owe that, in large part, to the inept and war-mongering President Bush and his administration. Also, we owe that, in no small measures, to the Congress and people who allow this president to steal the election once, and get "elected" once. These are the two biggest errors in the recent history of this country. Ones that we will pay for, for years to come. As it has been said before, Iraq's recent regional instability started with the invasion, and the blood-bath will continue for decades, with or without US presence. Removing the stable yet dictatorial, regime of Sadam Hossein is no different than throwing a lighted match into the "Powder Keg". The only winners of this war will be the Corporations and the rest of the defense industry. The Bush's circle will say and spin anything to keep this war going. Now the Administration is picking on Iran, again, to create a bigger chaos. That way, Bush can spin the Constitution so he doesn't have to give up the Presidency.

Making it up as we go along

Al Morrison — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:28:12 GMT

Making it up as we go along

David Struder, Miami, Fla. — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:44:04 GMT

I saw No End In Sight this weekend, and the MSNBC article echoes the newly released documentary. I encourage all Americans to see the film after reading this article. You will be shocked and awed - at what we have done in Iraq since the occupation began in 2003. And so as we ask, What do we do?, we must also ask, What have we done? (I heard one filmgoer quietly ask just that of anyone within earshot: My God, what have we done?!) We have, my fellow countrymen, waged a terrible, costly war, largely making it up as we went along, with no end in sight for any of us. Now, it may be time to do what we should have done five long years ago - seek diplomacy. For the sake of our future, if there is anything for us as a nation to learn, particularly as oil and gas reserves become less available, before military resources are expended and enemies are emboldened, and if people are to die, it may be this - pursue diplomacy more and wage war less. Perhaps then, we may avoid a future chock full of needless and endless wars made up as we went along.

Making it up as we go along

Cliff Hipsher, Richmond, Virginia — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:00:23 GMT

So far only one person "got it." Most of you sheeple have tunnel vision. This isn't about Bush, or Cheney, or Rummy, or Haliburton, or the left or the right.

Ya'll need to wake up and smell the camel dung.

Point #1: Radical Islamists want nothing short of total world domination.
Point #2: Point #1 is non-negotiable.
Point #3: All who oppose Point #1 are worthy of death.
Point#4: Neither Bush and the "neo-cons" nor Clinton and the liberal left started this mess. This whole thing started nearly a century ago when Egypt was a British Colony.
Point#5: The only good terrorist is a dead terrorist.

Making it up as we go along

Richard, Fort Worth, Texas — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:00:47 GMT

You could have written Gen. Petraeus's speech the day the first shipment of troops for the surge left the US.
If one remembers, in October of 2005, it was announce that there were 350,000 trained Iraqi troops. Plus they were still training troops; troops that would allow US troops to come home.
Now the US has added a SURGE and things have improved according to Gen. Petraeus, and yet only 1000 US troops can come home. And the 30,000 troops added, can not come home till next year.
Just how good are things working?
Time goes on; troops keep dying, the Iraqi government is NOT working, and things are getting better.

I guess like Mr. Bush keeps using the word VICTORY, which needs a definition, not the statement, GETTING BETTER, also needs a definition.

Wake up America!

Making it up as we go along

Glen B. — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:01:37 GMT

I have never seen propaganda of this magnitude in our country. I was sick as I watched this report today.

Making it up as we go along

Sue Filutze, Idaho Falls, Id — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:11:23 GMT

I doubt many remember when many Iranians were coming to this country in droves during the 70's and being educated. A good many returned to Iran, they became very westernized. Now, however, there are the mullas and others like their wacko Prez. (who says we don't have anything in common) who want to go backwards.
But I believe in the end those with more Western views will prevail. They don't want millions more Iraqi's moving into their country as refugees, that's what's been happening and those surrounding countries are saying wait a minute, we cannot keep this up, supporting all these immigrants, ( who knew another thing we have in common). So as much as Bush and Cheney want a war with Iraq, I truly believe that their people will revolt. Besides, Bush made this mess in Iraq and a majority of Iraqi's want us OUT, ASAP. Gee which choice would you make if say we were invaded, our country blown to hell, we were left not being able to send our kids to school, without electricty, water or job. We open our door not knowing if it's friend or foe! Who would you choose to be friends with, Canada or Russia?? Hum let me think.
Our military men and women are not losing a WAR, they lost nothing, Bush told everyone they were going into Iraq after WMD. None, then to get Saddam, done, then his boys, done, then a government needed to be formed, done, elections, purple fingers, done.
Train the military and cops, we've been training these people for over four years, I really don't think they get it. Our kids in boot camp get as little as eight weeks, so four years of training would make them well, GENERAL material.The military has done everything it was suppose to do, Bush and his administration and a good many Republicans failed Iraq, not the Democrats, or the public, or the Generals, but BUSH/CHENEY/RICE/ROVE/RUMMY and others. So our military should come home now proud of what they accomplished. Because were certainly proud of them.
The American people want us to leave, the Iraqi's want us to leave, and Bush says, WERE KICKING ASS! See ya in 2010, talking about this same subject.

Making it up as we go along

Scott Wray, Minneapolis, MN — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:18:06 GMT

So our troops being in Iraq has prevented another terrorist attack here? Fight them there so we don't have to fight them here? Osama sponsored the first attack on the World Trade Center in 1993, our troops stayed home and security remained lax at the airports. Eight years later the World Trade Center was attacked again. In my estimation keeping our troops home and doing nothing would have resulted in eight years of peace. So, even if there were a positive correlation between our saftey from terrorist attacks and having our troops in Iraq we wouldn't be able start measuring the effect until eight years after 9/11. Why does such an obvious huge flaw in thinking get accepted without challenge by the press?

Making it up as we go along

Pablowood — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:28:01 GMT

I remember TET.(68) I lost commrades, brothers & brothers...... I think we should redirect our fight (troups) Semper fi... to our mexican border. We have done all we can do for Islam. Retreat, and fight our enemies on AMERICAN SOIL!

Making it up as we go along

Jeff Oregon — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:30:18 GMT

Bush should realize that the American people have realized that "new" isn't always improved. Why does he keep telling us that we have a "new" approach when it is just the same old one with a new name.

Making it up as we go along

Kevin---Heartland USA — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:53:41 GMT

It take blood to win wars people the men fighting believe in what they are doing. Just because our leadership cant make a clear path for us, doesnt mean we should give up. Not to affend anybody but if would of pulled out of WW2 because of soldiers who died we would lost it. It takes sacrifice to win wars and believe that we will prevail. Iran is just sitting and waiting for us to leave so they can make it a terroist nation. We should stay their to we get it done right nothing else is acceptable.

Making it up as we go along

Norm Hodges Seattle, Wa — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:58:21 GMT

It is interesting how we are again runing our security from the Oh So Know it all section of the lost leaders section... the also ran away from any form of responsibility... Are these not the same spoiled bastards who set us up for a vitual fall in Viet Nam? They want to look all knowledgeable and caring, but they can not get their heads out of their lower orfis. Yes Viet Nam was WON but the talking heads and the Cowards in the office of power had no intention of wining this or any other battle as long as it ment standing for FREEDOM for ALL not just for their own PUNNY ASS. Get off the backs of the Military and let them win this operation, quit puting restrictions on the.. WIN THE PEACE THROUGH STANDING FOR FREEDOM EVERYWHERE. THE UN WILL NOT AND CAN NOT WITH THEIR POLUTED POICIES WIN ANY BATTLE BECASUE THEY HAVE NO TEETH.

Making it up as we go along

Ernesto Moore Ill — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 02:58:28 GMT

I wish all those that think they are right about letting this war continue would suit up or have their love ones go play in the sand. This is about all and we all know it. They will follow us home is the biggest lie ever told. They are already here. Some one in congress needs to say enough already, pull the plug on this. Is it going to take another 58,000 name to be put on a wall before we stop this war. Bush is the worst thing to ever happen to this county and it going to take a lot to put us back in the standings that we were in with the rest of the world before his tenue. There is no end to this until some one with the guts to say it and end it. If they don't then every voter should pick another name to repersent the incombant up for re-election this time around. Those of you talking about freedom not being free and haven't been to combat, pack your bags and let's roll. Put your boots on the ground. These are brave young men and women fighting, and dieing not for our freedom or their's. Oil that we are not getting, and history will remember Bush and this war that had nothing 9/11. He and his administration have sleep all the way through this past seven years claiming to have vision for the US. I hope you see!!

Making it up as we go along

Murfreesboro, TN — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 03:22:47 GMT

Give me till March, give me till November. Give me the time to get the Hell out of here.
(A Bush cheer)

Making it up as we go along

Jeff Charney Winnipeg Canada — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 03:43:26 GMT

Has mankind evolved far enough to take an honest look at a serious situation, or will our emotions get in the way? People are dying over in Iraq.The military toppled Saddams brutal regime, and tried to replace dictatorship with democracy. We all knew how the elections would result. there are more shites and less sunnis, and even less kurds. With a system of democracy, which is built on the principle "majority rules", we are asking the smaller groups to hand over power to the larger group.. it is simply not going to happen. This makes me take a second look at Democracy. Should majority rule ? Is majority always right? who does majority rule.. minority? is this fair? Should we improve democracy? is it time for a democracy scrutinization? I agree elections are peaceful way of finding out how the citizens think , and decisions could be made according to the results. but lets look at some of the problems with democracy. First lets agree all parties have some good ideas , but we cannot split our vote.. this is a problem which could be easily solved . Second problem , with majority rules it seems the ruling party decides on the budget, I never hear the opposition announce the budget comes spring time. Shouldn't the budget be divided equally amongst the parties according to their percentage of votes?for example if the shites have 50 % of votes they should be entitled to disperse 50% of the budget. If the sunnis have 30% of the votes , well same thing, they should recieve 30% of the budget to disperse with as they please . and same for the kurds if they have the remaing votes of 20% , than 20% of the budget belongs to them. My point is, the solution for this Iraq problem may be with improving democracy, one which would provide a more accurate distribution of power, while removing the ability for one party to oppress another.

Making it up as we go along

Doug — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 03:55:41 GMT

"There is no military solution to Iraq". Wow, what an ignorant statement in absolutism. ONLY talking/diplomacy will work? Really. What planet are you from? Take another hit of your bong and stop writing such garbage that people with no brain pick up and start chanting in our streets. I know you are smarter than that. Perpetuating talking points that are idiotic doesn't help matters.
- Iraq War Vet.

Making it up as we go along

emma morelli maimi. florida — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 04:05:07 GMT

Richard your reporting on Iraq is as usual the most insightful and creditable,I happen to agree with you that Iran will never let this opportunity go, and we have to remember the mayority of people in Iraq are shiite so is Iran we better try a diplomatic approach to this situation.I ask all of you reading this blogg to find Richard's map of Iraq and his detailed explanation of the country political and geographical
diversity. Richard take care we value and appreciate your keeping us inform and educated.Thank you

Making it up as we go along

rick — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 04:09:38 GMT

This war is only about money. I firmly believe that Bush has and is doing this solely for money for him and his friends period. For the rich everything revolves around money, nothing else. Bush and friends do not care about democracy in Iraq, US or anywhere else only that they can start a war $$, get friends huge contracts $$ with oil and without oil in iraq, and prosper while the average working american pisses in a pot. 3000 plus american lives dead and who knows how many innocent iraqis. People wake up! This is simply a war to get the rich richer $$$$. There are more money oppurtunities in this war than most people can imagine but only if you know the right people period!

Making it up as we go along

rick nick — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 04:43:37 GMT

its a sad shame that millions and billions of dollars can be spent on weapons to maime and destroy people and no money can be spent to better the facilities at walter reed and other VA hospitals. Veterans and VA hospitals are suffering everywhere in the US. Its pathetic that money is spent in these manners.

Making it up as we go along

Katherine Long, Hunters, WA — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 04:51:14 GMT

Frankly, there is a lot about this war, I don't understand but I do see what effect it is having on the people of the U.S.A.. One conclusion I did come to is: if the rich people want to have a war then THEY should PAY for it.
This war has hurt too many people and most will tell you 'they don't know for what! There are many different opinions as to why we are there, what we should do and how we should do it.

If we 'win' this war, what do we 'win'?

Making it up as we go along

John Harding — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 05:55:00 GMT

The next strategy, already underway, will be the US uniting with Sunni insurgents, to attack the Shiite majority and Iran.

Making it up as we go along

David, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:08:32 GMT

Interesting poll regarding how history is likely to regard Petraeus...

http://www.buzzdash.com/?page=buzzbite&BB_id=38366

Making it up as we go along

awabnavi, Yangon — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:23:17 GMT

"And what will happen in the middle east if Iraq realizes freedom for its citizens?" IF! IF! IF! A very big IF! How many more American lives are you willing to sacrifice and how many more Iraqi lives you are willing to take for this very PROBLEMATIC IF!

Making it up as we go along

michael fellion, carmichael ca — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:29:15 GMT

Many threads miss the point. Bush and his folks were/are incompetent, need I say Katrina. We are were we are in Iraq and, finnally, someone is in charge over there who has some clue of what makes the place tick. Iraq would be a very differnt place if we had gone in with the 500,000 troops orginally called for by the army. At the end of WW2 we had more troops than that in Germany and Japan and stayed 60 years to ensure democracy. If we had not fired the Iraq army, the Sunnies would not be fighting us. Saddam hijacked the reform movement in Iraq and set Sunnie against Shia to stay in power. However the Army and civil governmental organizations contained many people (perhaps most of the 2,000,000 in exile)with a western outlook and beliefs who should have been our natural partners in rebuilding Iraq. We fired them and turned the government over to thugs, thiefs and Mullahs intent on sending Iraq back 500 years. Naturally the Sunnies blamed us and walked into the terriost open arms. We cannot walk away as that gives the crazies who think God is talking in their ear the keys to our country. We can argue to the cows come home about the past or we can find someone competant to fight the war of ideas and blood against fundamental Moslems who think God wants us dead. They already have convinced between 17 to 70 percent of the population depending on country they are speaking for God while we and our politicians sat on our hands worrying whether Senator What his name is Gay. Our choice is clear defeat them or die because that is what they have already done to us on 9/11.

Making it up as we go along

Robert W. Arnold — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 06:52:29 GMT

Something someone said before the conflict ever began always rings true to me. It doesn't matter who controls their oil. They will still want to sell it. So I ask, what are we wasting lives and treasure for. They will sell us the bloody oil.

Making it up as we go along

Alex — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 07:21:59 GMT

Food for thought: one positive about pulling out of Iraq: the country would go into absolute chaos for quite a while (at least until a new dictator takes the helm), pipelines will be blown up to the point that the oil supply will be completely disrupted. With Iraq not producing oil we may have to pay $50/gallon for gas, but our worries of global warming may diminuish.

Al Gore and the democratic party will be twice as happy: kill two birds with one stone!

Satire aside, this is an extremly complicated political problem that the US did not invent and was not able to properly detect and act on the early warnings.

History teaches us that terrism is a 10-20 year (more?) process to contain, not defeat. What we need now in front of the world is the same internal unification that we are asking the Iraqi people. There's no Bush or Pelosi: there's one America and they are both elected to serve us, the people, by protecting us in the long term.

So Washington should stop playing politics for the sale of politics and start serving the country by defining the path to a long term solution, not a "quick fix" patch.

Making it up as we go along

Capt. Casey Grant, USMC — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 07:45:55 GMT

Thanks Richard for your meticulous insight. Your reports always carry a note of awareness and thought - no wonder you are a bureau chief!

I strongly disagree that shooting the President or attacking Gen. Petraeus is going to solve the issues that our country faces with our involvement in Iraq. Iraq is just one of the many places our military and government based out of to fight the global war on terror, and until that policy is changed, we are in it for the long haul - me and other Americans are right there with it; insults, paranoia and conspiracy theories are not constructive, intelligent thoughts on the matter.

The General is an honorable man, and a very educated one at that. Many of our fighting men and women are that way. America should be thankful that there are sly foxes within the foxholes. You can read more about Gen Petraeus at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Petraeus or you can read his official bio in the Pentagon's DefenseLink site.

God Bless America!

Making it up as we go along

Pam CRocker — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 08:12:34 GMT

We need to wage peace, not war. In doing so we may once again be respected throughout the world community. China right now is making great inroads by helping undeveloped countries build their infrastructures (in exchange for promised natural resources.) We're destroying... The American people want us out of Iraq, the Iraqui's want us out of Iraq, the world community thinks we should leave Iraq. But our leaders, democrats included, say it will take years to physically leave. I say we need to ask for the help of the world community. Can they help us evacuate our troups? Can they shelter Iraqui people who have helped us who want to leave? How many immigrants can we welcome to our shores?

Then there's the ultimate argument. What does a war do to global warming? How much CO2 is released into the atmosphere from the manufacture of weapons? How much is released with the use of those same weapons?

Making it up as we go along

Brian — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 08:13:14 GMT

You cant make 3 different religions stop hating each other.

How do you "get rid" of terrorists by killing people. For every father you kill terrorist or civilian you have just turned their kids into future terrorists.

Pull out today. 100% .. do not live a single troop their and cut your losses, because we definetly lost.

Either that... or become another ruthless dictator. The only way to stop terrorism is to mass murder, torture, and install fear. See Saddam.

Making it up as we go along

joe earley scituate ri — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:37:21 GMT

Most (Americans) were opposed to the revolutionary war!!! Imagine if we listened to the people back then. The majority of people wanted to impeach George Washington, arguably the greatest American to ever live. Point is we cannot wage these battles based on the public opinion. Most often the public is wrong and history prove them so.

Making it up as we go along

jorge — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 11:53:57 GMT

For all these people defending Bush and asking what would have happened if we pulled out of WW2 or didn't fight the British, it's all immaterial. Those were different wars, fought by different peole, for different reasons. We don't know what would have happened had we pulled out out of those wars or sought some other solution. It could been better for all we know.

The bottom line for all of you in the "we must stay there and we dare not leave" crowd is that we don't have the troops to pull this off. Not without a draft. Are you willing to sacrifice your son or daughter for George Bush's war? If yes, then they should already be over there with you cheering them on. If not, shut up.

Making it up as we go along

M, An American Patriot — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 12:04:47 GMT

It seems that most of you people writing these blogs have a very distinct defeatist attitude. When the heat gets turned up, you're more likely to get out of the kitchen. It really seems that, since 9/11 when our country was attacked by a bunch of extremists from Islam, that you have lost the focus or main point about that event. Acting on the very best of intelligence our country and Europe had to offer, our president chose to take the fight to the enemy on his own turf rather than to have to sit here and wait for another attack on our soil. The WTC was attacked not once but twice by the very same individual and his henchmen. How many more chances are you willing to give that person to attack us on our own soil? The old saying of turn the other cheek can apply here. Since most of you people seem to be born with more than two cheeks, one for each attack, how many times are you going to turn before you say enough is enough? You live in this country and are saying this is not my war and we should not be there. Because 9/11 didn't happen to you or one of your family members, it really doesn't matter to you that other Americans died at the hands of the lords of Islam. Shoot Bush? Maybe, instead that they should shoot all of you spineless cowards who want to just give way to the terrorists and just tolerate their insistent attacks on our way of life. I spent 18 months in Bagdad and, from the people I talked with, They were most happy to see Saddam gone. You only get to hear the bad things about Iraq, what the media wants you to hear because they are using their own form of propaganda to undermine our war efforts. How many reports about the good things happening over there have been broadcast? Very few or practically zero!! America did not cause the mass destruction and huge loss of life there. Rather, realizing that they could not defeat us head on, the enemy changed his tactics to get the people to turn against us by killing the innocent. Like it or not, if you are an American and live here, support is all that matters for our troops over there. Congress does not have a clue or is in denial about what to do other than to cry foul and cut and run and another thing, they have convinced most of you that is the right course of action. Open your eyes, people! That is the blind leading the blind for you see nothing for yourselves and what is reality. Diplomacy? You'll still be talking while your enemy is killing you. Get rid of your yellow streak and stand up for our freedom!!

Making it up as we go along

John, New York, NY — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 12:36:22 GMT

Thank God for His grace and mercy and while my heart goes out to all of those affected by the 9/11 aftermath where many of the first responders have become sick, or died themselves, of respiratory problems and cancers they blame on exposure to World Trade Center dust. Nevertheless, for Congress to bail these individuals out of his/her respective situations and/or circumstances while having degraded military personnel whom congress has already taken away past and present veterans rights after having served faithfully this country, giving up a portion of his/her life to serve a country while having to pay for his/her medical, dental and optical benefits that were initially guaranteed for service. For congress to act on behalf of first responders while continuing to leave veterans out in the cold would be a travesty and injustice of astronomical proportions. As veterans, we too, have to decide between paying rent, mortgages or prescriptions. My back was injured while in the military and the government has done everything humanly possible to keep from assisting me and so many other veterans suffer a similar fate. So, if Congress wants to be fair while acting with any form of truth, honor and integrity first restore full veterans’ rights and privileges as initially agreed upon instead of outsourcing and using veterans as corporate guinea pigs while compelling us to pay to go to a Veterans Administration Medical Center now controlled by corporate America. We served this country faithfully and with honor and integrity and deserve nothing less than that which was initially agreed upon with dignity and respect as oppose to being seen as something less. – Vietnam era veteran on behalf of all veterans. Thank God for His grace and mercy for He helped me where no man would, he sustained me while congress and the likes of Clinton, Obama and Giuliani sought to use me for his and her political aspirations, which he and she can forget about. The likes of these have given illegal immigrants far greater rights and privileges than veterans have in terms of governmental assistance and protection. THIS IS A NO VOTE NOTICE.

Making it up as we go along

ernest z simmons — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 12:43:54 GMT

i beleive the war in aftasganstan is just for 9-11 but the war in iraq is one of greed by the us and others for the control of oil.i beleive the losers are our veterans who are promised medical help and we serve and get no help from the va for all our injuries.my prayer is on judgement day i see those in the va give a account for their denial to veterans.may God richly bless them.

Making it up as we go along

Rod Hardesty, Mechanicsville, Maryland — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:15:04 GMT

This blog allows and posts comments that suggest shooting the President? Makes me not only wonder about this blog but the folks running it, and the person posting it should be punished. BLAME BUSH! He controls everything from the weather to price of rice in China!! Wake up people! There have been for a longtime forces that wish the American people harm for many reasons. No US President ever started a war. If anyone desires to have a leader who considers turning the other cheek when Americans are killed, and thinks that is not a dangerous path, you must be unaware of the events of the world today. For those that don't believe in the system and condem everything this country does and stands foor, THERE ARE OTHER PLACES TO LIVE!!! Try the grass on the other side of the hill.

Making it up as we go along

Acosta — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:37:39 GMT

You know what I just love about these political people how they try to just continuously pull the wool over our eyes. The "withdrawal" as they are calling it is such a sign that they don't intend on bring anyone back. The Marines that they are bringing back are the ones due to come home after finishing their deployment. And then they are generous enough to bring back more in December him isn't that when more troops are also due home because their tour is over. But it get better, by July of 08 they are bring back even more troops. Guess what that’s the exact month my husband and his unit are due to come home after their long agenizing 15 month tour. So I ask you is this a coincidence? I think not I think they are just "playing" it perfectly. Announce withdrawal when our soldiers are due back anyway and it will make it seem to us that finally they hear us when they are just trying to blind us with more lies.

Making it up as we go along

Rainer Zirbs — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:43:07 GMT

Dear Sirs...
thinking it over and over I may not find an an easy solution...
Perhaps this recommendation: "get ou to get in"
I mean it in a way exercised in Serbia: standing outside observing a most cruel massacre between Sunnits and Schiits (which is liekely) means that there will no way bu to invade again, this time supported by appropriate UN resolutions and a broader understanding to intervene again born by unanmiously willing of nearly all democratic nations after having decided not to stand aside.
Going this way Germany will be with you.

R. Zirbs, former communal politician, now teacher
in Germany

Making it up as we go along

Albert M — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:00:24 GMT

I might be a little more willing to stay in Iraq if Bush wasn't president. I just simply can't believe a word that comes out of that man's mouth. He has lied so many times before, how do we know he's not still trying to fool us? If we had a Democrat in office telling us that they needed to stay a while longer THEN I might believe it. Most people get fired from their jobs for failure after failure and lying about it afterwards. Why in the world isn't Bush impeached?

Making it up as we go along

Mike, Montgomery, TX — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:05:27 GMT

Mr. White, you are right for one thing. The good general is bought and paid for but, not by the current administration. His salary is paid by the American taxpayer, you and me, unless you are one of those that don't pay taxes. The general gets his orders from the commander-in-chief which happens to be President Bush set by our constitution. You, like the Democrats in Congress, laid a deaf ear on the general's statement that his assessments were his own and not that of the president. Their minds, like yours , were already made up as to how they would view the situation in Iraq. Mr. Bush is letting the general fight the war and who would better know how it is than General Patraeus? It doesn't take a genius to figure that one out but, I guess that was over your head as well as congress'. When you can make an intelligent statement that has some thought into it, then you can make rash stements and make them stick. The Shiites and the Sunnis are no different in comparison than our own Democrats and Republicans. All are loyal to their respected affilliations and are reluctant to cross party lines to work side by side on a common goal. That happens everyday in our own house and senate. What viable solutions have the Democrats to offer to end the war that the president can use other than desertion in the face of the enemy? Public opinion is a strong tool but it never won any wars. Some people are of the opinion that this war is only for the rich to benefit from it and the poor die. This war is for the good of all Americans rich or poor. Most wouldn't believe that until the enemy is marching down their street and then it will be too late. Let the military do what they do best and find some other means to occupy your mind other than the useless drivel you are spewing.

Making it up as we go along

john florida — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:22:20 GMT

I think that most of you did not hear what the general's report said.All you heard was the 2 week attack on the general before he spoke on word.And now we see the finishing touches on the general.All you heard were the attacks made on this GREAT MAN by politicians because so much is invested in a loss for the U.S. A presidential election is at stake and you can't have the truth stand in the way.Harry Ried would rather set fire to the white house than have a republican in it again.But there is time before the elections in 08 to get it all out in the open and see who IS AND HAS BEEN DOING WHAT AND WHY!! "THE WAR IS IN MY OPINION LOST" "THE ARMY IS BROKEN" "OUR SOLDIERS ARE TERRORIZING WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE DARK OF NIGHT" "OUR SOLDIERS ARE MURDERING INNOCENT PEOPLE" THOSE ARE QUOTES MADE BY OUR WASHINGTON ELITES !! THESE ARE PEOPLE WE ELECTED TO SERVE AND PROTECT THE U.S.A. BUT INSTEAD THEY TURNED ON US FOR AN ELECTION. THESE LEADERS WOULD RATHER TURN ON THEIR OWN COUNTRY FOR THE 08 ELECTIONS THAN BACK OUR SOLDIERS IN HARMS WAY.THIS ARTICLE IS NO SURPRISE TO ANYONE(THIS IS MY QUOTE "IF THE TRUTH DOES NOT SUIT YOUR NEEDS, MUDDY THE WATERS SO IT NO LONGER CAN BE FOUND ANYWHERE BY ANYONE"

Making it up as we go along

WDRussell, East Liverpool,Ohio — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:27:49 GMT

If the General's report was so important, why wasn't the General sworn in?

Making it up as we go along

joe m — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:38:26 GMT

the last war we won, we won it with 2 bombs. we have better bombs now and we can win this war. and iran along with it.

Making it up as we go along

Dave, Canada — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:40:47 GMT

You broke it you buy it.

USA created the mess and now its time to fix it- 150,000 troops? get real face reality- You need 500-750 thousand on the ground- yes you need the draft.

If USA does not have that comittment than pack er up and let the chips/blood fly- This half baked surge will help no one in the long run

Making it up as we go along

rob, oakland, ca. — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:48:00 GMT

It's a global struggle, and will end once the muslim world is secularized, respects freedom of religion, free press, democracy, gets rid of inciting clerics and madrassa hate schools, and treats their women as equals. It truly is like a cold war at times, and a hot little war at others. It took over 70 years for the USSR to collapse, and will take likely several more decades, and wars in Iran and Saudi Arabia, before that sick swamp over there is drained and cleaned out.

Making it up as we go along

JC, Woodridge, IL — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 16:22:20 GMT

Partition Iraq along religious lines. If the U.S. leaves, it will happen anyway, but with more bloodshed. The Kurds show that partition will work. These people cannot live together peacefully without a vicious dictator. You can thank "W" for removing the only glue the held that lousy country together. I hope he is happy with his vendetta.

Making it up as we go along

sgt shot, just got back from second tour — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 16:26:33 GMT

America is more than a country, it is more than an Idea, it is more than a philosophy. America is a great experiment in human freedom that has been cunducted for over 200 years. When we were founded, many thought the Idea was absurd. We still made it, we grew, we developed, we made mistakes and we learned. We continue in this great experiment to this day. We have our problems, we fight, we debate, we make mistakes and we learn some more. For all of our problems, we still have people from all across the planet flocking to our shores. We offer a genuine chance at making lives better. Our Statue of Liberty holds the beacon and her silent lips cry "Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp! Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me, I lift up my lamp beside the golden door!"

We are a country of mutts, sons and daughters of poor immigrants, we come from a hearty stock that is not afraid of hardwork, a little sweat and a good fight. We are a mix matched bag of the worlds refuse that has banded together and saved the world. And in this crazy world, we have become the last super power. Our economy drives the world economy (why do you think the insurgents want to destroy it) Our fashion trends set the world fashion trends. I have travelled this planet and everywhere I have gone people are facinated with americans. Why? because we do not give a shit what people think of us. We want fairplay above all else, and if you have a problem with that, screw you. The europeans call us crass and rude, we saved their asses with our good old american style smack down on the Nazi's, we may be percieved as rude, but in reality, we just don't give a shit about their heritage and hierarchy.

So, where does this involve the war on terror? we are involved in a war to save our freedoms, I have served 2 combat tours, I have lost good friends, I have killed my enemy and I have looked the insurgents in the eyes (then pulled the effing trigger) This war is going to be a world war, we are fighting an ideology, there are no geographical boundries, Iraq and Afghanistan are just the current boiling points.

Americans wake up, Politicians wake up. These people are not going to stop attacking america, we represent everything they are opposed to. Freedom.

I think we have made some mistakes in this war, and we have paid the price, now it is time to cash in our chips and bring our A game. I have never failed a mission, I have never been given the objective I wanted, but I have always completed whatever was assigned to me. Come hell or high water, I accomplished my mission.

Now let me do this american style, forget the Iraqi military and police, forget the Iraqi government, forget trying to play politics in War. That is not our way, how long did we occupy and govern Japan and Germany? They were still countries but we maintained their security. Look at them today.

Lets do this thing, pull all of our troops out of the cities (I have been to them all) Take all of our weapons and vehicles. Seal the north, west and eastern borders (yes it will take a massive troop surge) then lets drive in from the south, sure we will be retaking ground, but this time we clear every square foot of the damn country, if there are women and children, pull them behind the advancing army and take care of them, if there are men surrendering we pull them and put them in a temporary prison, any body else, we kill. Sealing the borders will allow us to kill any retreating insurgents and kill any insurgents coming in from Iran or Syria or turkey or Saudi. After we have marched through the country, we allow the women and children back in and we feed them as we rebuild, we take the men that have surrendered and put them on chain gangs to help rebuild the country, as they show that they are trust worthy, we give them more freedom until they are eventually released to return home and help rebuild. We continue feeding them and rebuilding them. We spend alot of money but they see that Americans are there to help. We keep the borders sealed, allow for elections (even if we need to divide the country into 3 (I don't like it, but it may be the only way)different "states") They get a strong government, the streets are quiet, we start training their police and military.

Either that or we pull the hell out, seal our borders and never again mess around with helping the world. I do not even like to think of what our life would be like.

We are the last super power, we are the great satan (I think of it as a compliment when some rag head stops screwing his goat long enough to yell it at a passing camera crew) We are freedom, we are fairness, we are justice and we are all of these things because we have learned to overcome differences and work together.

I for one am proud of being a mutt (my family tree looks like a great oak that was turned into planks and then used to construct a brothel) I am proud of being a grunt, I am proud of being american and I am proud of my service in Iraq.

Lets just do the damn thing and finish it.

Making it up as we go along

Albert M — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 18:51:31 GMT

Dear Sgt. Shot. (sgt shot, just got back from second tour (Sent Tuesday, September 11, 2007 12:26 PM))

I want to commend you for your service and your attitude. A belief in Freedom and the courage to fight for it is a precious comododity. So I really hate to break it to you, the biggest threat to our freedom isn't the Islamic terrorists - it's the Bush Administration. While you were away, they were doing everything they could to erode or outright bypass the Constitution. And they used the fear of another attack to get away with it. The Patriot Act is the most obvious example, but Executive Order 51 is the most dangerous. The voter caging (that Monica Goodling testified that the GOP was doing) is an outright attempt to destroy democracy. It's a recepie for a coup. (Steal votes and get your cronies in office (especially in the justice department so the law can be selectively enforced), wiretap your political enemies and dissenters so you can deal with them before they can even do anything, and then declare a "national emergency" to stay in office for a 3rd term despite the outcome of the 2008 election). The pieces are all in place (research them for yourself if you need to) so why wouldn't they do it?

I understand you want to do what's right for the Iraqi people. And that's good. However, please remember that questioning authority and standing up against powermongers are a couple of the most sacred and essential American traditions. Without it, a dictator would have taken power long ago.

America is ruled by "We the People." Bush works for us. Or at least, that's how it's supposed to be. If Bush acts on Executive Order 51 then he is throwing down the gauntlet. At that point it doesn't matter how many Al'Qaeda there are, the real threat to freedom will be our own government.

America = evey vote counted and election results enacted. For two presidential elections that hasn't happened and a third is getting ready to happen. The dream of America is at risk - which is exactly what Osama Bin Laden wanted when he hatched the plan for 9-11. That is what (in my opinion) makes your sacrifice such a tragedy. I'm sorry if that offends you. But I strongly feel that if we ask our soldiers to fight for freedom abroad, we should maintain that very same freedom at home... terrorist threat or not.

Making it up as we go along

JJ Waterboy — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 23:36:03 GMT

It's easy enough to stop this war. Simply let the people that "advocate" this war...pay for this war. Those of us against it, don't have to pay anything. Wow, can you imagine how many neo-conservatives would turn democratic? The only thing they fear more than Vietnam is having to spend their money.

Making it up as we go along

rob, oakland, ca. — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:02:04 GMT

Sgt Shot-

Thank you for your service, and if you have to go back for a third tour please be safe and remain faithful to your training and brothers in arms. It seems this nation lost the stomach for total war like what we fought in WWII, and its unlikely to see us implement your recommendations. Still, you are right about it being a world war, against a sick ideology, and Afghanistan and Iraq are just the current boiling points. I am no longer physically able to serve, but I'd gladly serve again somehow in some capacity if the army waives certain physical requirements and if we as a nation really wake up, as you said, and fought it as the total war it really is, and is becoming more so every year. Freedom, one and all, forever!!!

Making it up as we go along

A.F. Santacroce, Steubenville, Ohio — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:37:23 GMT

Way to go Joe from R.I.!
And I enjoyed the segment by Mr. Engel in the helicopter over N.Y. It was a great to know there are many, many security measures to protect our citizens in New York! We do appreciate all the efforts by our police and the military. Let us always honor them.

Making it up as we go along

Madeleine Bryan, Delray BEach, Fl — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 02:42:33 GMT

As a Democrat, I will admit that the idea of stablizing the Middle East is/was an idea tht had some merit. However, the way the idea was manipulated and put into action has been a disgusting mess.....from the very beginning.

Please tell me how a bunch of men who are supposedly educated and functional, from William Krystol to Colin Powell to George Bush, could have created this travesty.

Can we leave? I don't know. I do believe it is a shame to leave many of those families to certain death from the primitive men who will certainly take over the country.

Making it up as we go along

Dot, Illinois — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:05:38 GMT

Excellent report, Mr. Engel.

In all that is said and written about this war, there seems to be nothing about any diplomatic attempts to stop it. Surely France, Germany and Russia have a vested interest in what happens to Iraq. Isn't the prospect of Iranian control of that country of concern to them? Iran--the country working on nuclear weaponry?

And what about the United Nations? Even though we thumbed our noses at them when we invaded Iraq, that organization is still supposedly dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of peace in our world. Are they doing anything?

If any diplomatic solutions are being proposed, why is there no reporting of such talks?

The acrimonious divisions this war is causing in our country is sad. We need united efforts to solve our country's problems, but unity will be impossible as long as the iraq war continues.

Making it up as we go along

bob johnson-perkins cebu city — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:41:27 GMT

I am fed up with the politics and the stupidness of the many Military advisors. What has gave some fresh enlightenment is that UK has gone out on a limb as they are pretty fed up with the US stratigy now that the Iraqi military forces and police have recieved by now acceptible training. My feelings are that there is a solution to close the book on Iraq and what is not exactly to my mind a war.

For those of you that may not realise that the British had a plan and its based on the British experience of urban terrorism please take a look at my Blog

http://thebabelfish.blog.co.uk/2007/09/11/basra_iraq_11_september_2007_british_pla~2961705

Hope it may inspire.......

Making it up as we go along

john florida — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:25:42 GMT

SGT. SHOT:
If more Americans thought like you and I this country would be TRULY the envy of the WORLD. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.NOBODY SEEMS TO GET THAT THERE SHOULD BE NO POLITICS WHEN IT COMES TO DEFENDING OUR HOME.WHEN IT COME TO OUR WAY OF LIFE THERE SHOULD BE NO OPINIONS BY ANY REPEAT ANY OTHER COUNTRY TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.