IRAQ - An Update

IRAQ - An Update

Most of the contents of the ISG (dubbed the Iraqi Surrender Group by some) are to be dismissed; for example, engaging Iran and Syria is nonsense since Iraqi turmoil is in their collective interest. It is true that most is pablum, "...about as daring as a glass of warm water," says Georgia Rep Jack Kingston, "They might as well have come out against crime...," yet there are kernels of truth, reflections of wisdom, and, these echo our original recommendations as presented in distilled form Nov/17. So ignoring all the report would be too easy, and indeed unwise, especially for Bush who can, if he looks closely, take some as an endorsement for plans already set for 2007:
It is clear that the first task is to secure Bagdad. The report is open to this idea. This will take more troops - we predict 30,000. The report is open to this idea.
Next, Iraqi troops and security personnel are to be strengthened, by the way of a larger US commitment of embedded troops, and $. The report is open to this idea.
Finally, the Administration intends to push for an entirely new coalition of cross-sectarian alliances. The report is open to this idea.
More later.
Bob