Biden Trip Marks New Alliance with Iraq

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 1, 2011 – Troops may be leaving Iraq by year’s end, but meetings yesterday between Vice President Joe Biden and Iraqi leaders promise continuing civilian engagement between the two sovereign nations after the end of the War in Iraq, a senior administration official said in Baghdad.

After co-chairing a meeting of the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, Biden held separate meetings with Maliki, President Jalal Talabani and Speaker Osama al-Nujaifi.

“They covered a broad array of issues in these meetings, including the transition to a civilian lead in Iraq for the United States [and] the security relationship going forward,” the official told journalists traveling with the vice president.

“They talked about the resolution of some of Iraq’s remaining international issues,” he added, including obligations under Chapter 7 of the Charter of the United Nations placed on Iraq after its 1990 invasion of and war with Kuwait, and its current relationship with Kuwait.

Biden and the Iraqi leaders, the official said, also discussed regional issues, including those involving Syria, Turkey and Iran.

On the topic of Iran, the vice president “made clear something that we’ve made clear repeatedly, which is, one, we fully expect Iraq to have a relationship with Iran,” the official said.

“There’s a long border and a long history [between the countries],” the official added, “and that is fully understood. But what is not acceptable and not understood would be to in any way allow Iran to use our presence in Iraq as a target.”

The United States has committed in the past not to use Iraq as a staging ground to act against other countries, he said, and that includes Iran.

“Reciprocally,” he added, “it is fully our expectation that the government of Iraq not allow Iraq to be used as an area to target U.S. personnel.”

Biden and the Iraqi leaders also discussed Arab-Kurd relations, internal security -- especially the need to keep pressure on violent extremist groups -- and Maliki’s visit in Washington with President Barack Obama later this month.

“All of this is very powerful evidence that the United States is not disengaging from Iraq,” the official said. “Rather, the nature of our engagement is changing from what has been a military lead to a civilian lead.”

The United States has “moved, as the vice president put it, from the security agreement that governed our military operations in Iraq to the strategic framework agreement, which is the basis for this comprehensive new relationship.”

As is the case at other embassies around the world, the official added, an Office of Security Cooperation has been established in Iraq to help Iraqis acquire and then learn how to use military equipment they buy from the United States.

In Iraq, that office will include 157 people assigned to the U.S. embassy and under the authority of the ambassador, he said, and some who might come in on individual contracts for two or three months at a time to help the Iraqis train on U.S. equipment.

“What we’re talking about going forward as possibilities of training beyond the Office of Security Cooperation includes things like … doing ongoing training of Iraqis outside of Iraq in other countries [and] integrating Iraqis into regional exercises,” the official added.

Today at Al Faw Palace at Camp Victory, Iraq, Biden spoke at an event hosted by the Iraqi government and held to honor the sacrifices of U.S. and Iraqi forces. "History will record that the liberation of our country was not only an important turning point in Iraq, but it was an important beginning for the region," Talibani said, referring to events of the Arab Spring.

Maliki thanked former President George W. Bush for signing the U.S.-Iraq status of forces agreement, which established the parameters for U.S. troop withdrawal from Iraq. He also thanked Obama for seeing the agreement through.

"Because of you and the work those of you here have done, we are now able to end this war,” Biden said, adding that the Iraqi people have not and will not yield again to any kind of external domination.

Biden was presented with a medal called a “shield of commitment," as were Army Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, commanding general of U.S. Forces Iraq, Jeffrey D. Feltman, assistant secretary of state for near eastern affairs, and ambassadors from other countries who fielded coalition forces.

After the ceremony, Biden met privately with troops for photos before traveling to Erbil in northern Iraq, 50 miles east of Mosul.

There Biden met with Kurdish Regional Government President Masoud Barzani at the official’s ceremonial residence before boarding his aircraft for Ankara, Turkey, the first stop on a four-day trip to Turkey and Greece.

U.S. Kills bin Laden in Intelligence-driven Operation

By John D. Banusiewicz

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 2, 2011 – An intelligence-driven U.S. operation in Pakistan killed al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden yesterday, President Barack Obama announced in a nationally televised address from the White House late last night.

“Today, at my direction, the United States launched a targeted operation against that compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan,” Obama said. “A small team of Americans carried out the operation with extraordinary courage and capability.

“No Americans were harmed,” he continued. “They took care to avoid civilian casualties. After a firefight, they killed Osama bin Laden and took custody of his body.”

Obama noted that bin Laden had been al-Qaida’s leader and symbol for more than 20 years and continued to plot attacks against the United States and its allies.

“The death of bin Laden marks the most significant achievement to date in our nation’s effort to defeat al-Qaida, yet his death does not mark the end of our effort,” Obama said. “There is no doubt that al-Qaida will continue to pursue attacks against us. We must, and we will, remain vigilant at home and abroad.”

The president revealed that shortly after taking office in January 2009, he ordered CIA Director Leon E. Panetta to make bin Laden’s death or capture the top priority of the U.S. war against the al-Qaida terrorist organization.

“Then, last August, after years of painstaking work by our intelligence community, I was briefed on a possible lead to bin Laden. It was far from certain, and it took many months to run this thread to ground,” he said. The president said he met repeatedly with his national security team as information developed indicating bin Laden was at a compound in Pakistan, and that last week he determined enough information was available and authorized the operation.

The president emphasized that the war against al-Qaida is not a war against Islam.

“Bin Laden was not a Muslim leader,” he said. “He was a mass murderer of Muslims. Indeed, al-Qaida has slaughtered scores of Muslims in many countries, including our own. So his demise should be welcomed by all who believe in peace and human dignity.”

Counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan helped in finding bin Laden and the compound where he was hiding, the president said.

“Indeed, bin Laden had declared war against Pakistan as well, and ordered attacks against the Pakistani people. Tonight, I called [Pakistani] President [Asif Ali] Zardari, and my team has also spoken with their Pakistani counterparts. They agree that this is a good and historic day for both of our nations, and going forward, it is essential that Pakistan continue to join us in the fight against al-Qaida and its affiliates.”

The president praised those who worked to find bin Laden and those who carried out the operation that killed him.

“Tonight, we give thanks to the countless intelligence and counterterrorism professionals who’ve worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome,” he said. “The American people do not see their work, nor know their names. But tonight, they feel the satisfaction of their work and the result of their pursuit of justice.

“We give thanks for the men who carried out this operation,” he continued, “for they exemplify the professionalism, patriotism, and unparalleled courage of those who serve our country. And they are part of a generation that has borne the heaviest share of the burden since that September day.”

Former President George W. Bush released a statement after he received a call from Obama:

"Earlier this evening, President Obama called to inform me that American forces killed Osama bin Laden the leader of the al Qaida network that attacked America on September 11, 2001.  I congratulated him and the men and women of our military and intelligence communities who devoted their lives to this mission. They have our everlasting gratitude. This momentous achievement marks a victory for America, for people who seek peace around the world, and for all those who lost loved ones on September 11, 2001. The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message:  No matter how long it takes, justice will be done.

Bush Says Iran Still Poses Threat

By Sgt. Sara Moore, USA
American Forces Press Service

Dec. 4, 2007 - The national intelligence estimate released yesterday on Iran's nuclear program proves that Iran is still a threat to world peace and provides an opportunity for the international community to work together to persuade the country's current regime to stop its uranium enrichment program, President Bush said here today. Although the estimate says Iran halted its nuclear weapons program in 2003, it also states with "high confidence" that Iran had a covert nuclear weapons program that it has never acknowledged and continues to deny, Bush said in a White House news conference. This opens up the possibility that Iran could develop another covert weapons program and could transfer the knowledge of uranium enrichment, which the country has been pursuing since 2005, to that program, Bush said.

"I think it is very important for the international community to recognize the fact that if Iran were to develop the knowledge that they could transfer to a clandestine program, it would create a danger for the world," Bush said. "So I view this report as a warning signal."

Bush denied allegations that this latest estimate damages U.S. credibility because it points out that Iran's weapons program was halted, but U.S. leaders continued to warn of the impending danger of a nuclear Iran. Iran still is a threat to the stability of the Middle East, he said, because uranium enrichment is the most important step in developing nuclear weapons.

"Iran was dangerous, Iran is dangerous, and Iran will be dangerous if they have the knowledge necessary to make a nuclear weapon," Bush said, asserting that his opinion about Iran has not changed.

The intelligence estimate also found that diplomacy worked in the past to dissuade Iran from its nuclear weapons program. This proves that there is a better way forward for Iran, Bush said, and now is the time for the international community to come together and work toward a diplomatic solution.

"The best way to ensure that the world is peaceful in the future is for the international community to continue to work together to say to the Iranians, 'We're going to isolate you, however, there is a better way forward for the Iranians,'" Bush said.

Bush complimented the intelligence community for its work on the intelligence estimate. This report proves that reforms of the U.S. intelligence community have worked, and it is important for the public to see the facts about Iran, he said.

"I think the (national intelligence estimate) makes it clear that Iran needs to be taken seriously as a threat to peace," Bush said. "My opinion hasn't changed. If you want to avoid a really problematic situation in the Middle East, now's the time to work together. That's our message to our allies."

Bush to Ask for $42 Billion for War Operations

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 26, 2007 - President Bush will ask Congress for another $42 billion to fund operations in the war on terror in fiscal 2008, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told the Senate Appropriations Committee today. Gates; Deputy Secretary of State John D. Negroponte; Marine Gen. Peter Pace, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Defense Department Comptroller Tina W. Jonas testified before the committee. The request brings the total supplement for fiscal 2008 to $190 billion, Gates said.

"I urge the Congress to approve the complete global war on terror request as quickly as possible and without excessive and counterproductive restrictions," the secretary said. "That will help the department manage its expenses and people more effectively and minimize costly reprogramming actions."

The department had asked for $141.7 billion for war on terror operations in February. The request for fiscal 2008, which begins Oct. 1, was a straight-line projection of ongoing war costs. At the time, Gates told Congress that the number would need to be adjusted as more information became available and the picture on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan became clearer.

That request included $70.6 billion for operations, $37.6 billion to repair or replace equipment, $15.2 billion for force protection, and $4.7 billion to train and equip Afghan and Iraqi security forces.

At the end of July, the department asked for another $5.3 billion to buy 1,520 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles. These vehicles, known as MRAPs, offer better protection from improvised explosive devices and car bombs, the leading killers of Americans in Iraq. This brought the total request to $147 billion.

The $42 billion request the president will submit includes $6 billion to support Army and Marine combat formations in Iraq through fiscal 2008. This includes surge forces in the country and the president's announced intention to redeploy five Army brigade combat teams by next summer, Gates said.

The request also includes $14 billion for force protection, including another $11 billion to field 7,000 more MRAP vehicles. If approved, this would bring the request to 15,000 vehicles. "This also includes funding to better defeat enemy snipers and to modify Army combat vehicles to improve survivability," Gates said.

The request adds $9 billion for reconstitution of equipment. This is vital to ensure the armed forces have the equipment and technology needed for future operations, Gates said.

Another $5 billion will go for training and equipment to accelerate the deployment readiness of Army units. Also, $1 billion will go to support National Guard pre-deployment training.

In addition, the president will ask for $1 billion to improve U.S. facilities in Southwest Asia and consolidate bases in Iraq.

Finally, the request seeks another $1 billion to train and equip Iraqi security forces, Gates said.

The defense secretary also threw his support behind the State Department portion of the request. "As you know, the challenges we face in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere are fundamentally political, economic and cultural in nature and are not going to be overcome by military means alone," Gates told the senators. "It will be very difficult for our troops and their commanders to succeed without the key non-military programs and initiatives included in the request for the State Department."

During the hearing, anti-war groups interrupted the testimony on numerous occasions. The committee chairman finally had to clear the hearing room.

"I know that Iraq and other difficult choices America faces in the war on terror will continue to be a source of friction within the Congress, between the Congress and the president, and in the wider public debate," Gates said. "Considering this, I would like to close with a word about something I know we can all agree on -- the honor, courage and great sense of duty we have witnessed in our troops since Sept. 11.

"Under some of the most trying conditions, they have done far more than what was asked of them and far more than what was expected," the secretary continued. "Like all of you, I am both humbled and inspired by my trips to Walter Reed (Army Medical Center) and to the frontlines in Iraq and Afghanistan. And, like all of you, I always keep our troops – their safety and their mission – foremost in my mind every day."

Nations Must Unite Against Terrorism, Bush Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 25, 2007 - Nations of the world must unite against terrorism, which denies fundamental rights, President Bush told the United Nations General Assembly today. Terrorists are a threat to all civilized people, Bush said at the opening of the assembly's 62nd session.

"All civilized nations must work together to stop them by sharing intelligence about their networks and choking off their finances and bringing to justice their operatives," he said. "In the long run, the best way to defeat extremists is to defeat their dark ideology with a more hopeful vision, a vision of liberty that founded this body."

The president said the United Nations must encourage leaders attempting to build free institutions that fight terror, enforce the law and respond to the needs of their people.

The citizens of Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, Afghanistan and Iraq have chosen democracy, Bush said, yet terrorists have tried to overturn those votes. "It is not a show of strength. It is evidence of fear," he said. "And the extremists are doing everything in their power to bring down these young democracies."

The president spoke against the dictators of Belarus, North Korea, Syria and Iran as nations that deny their people the fundamental rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Bush called the declaration, negotiated 60 years ago, a landmark achievement in the history of human liberty.

Bush also spoke against the military junta in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, and said he will announce a series of steps to help bring peaceful change to the Southeast Asian nation.

Anticipating the eventual death of Cuban dictator Fidel Castro, Bush said, the United Nations must stand ready to assist a post-Castro Cuba. He also said the world body has a responsibility to work for change in Zimbabwe and in Darfur, Sudan.

Bush said the United Nations helps to build a world where "people are free to speak, assemble and worship as they wish, a world where children in every nation grow up healthy, get a decent education, and look to the future with hope, a world where opportunity crosses every border."

"America will lead toward this vision where all are created equal and free to pursue their dreams," he said. "This is the founding conviction of my country. It is the promise that established this body. And with our determination, it can be the future of our world."

The president said the family of nations must join together to fulfill the promise of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This means the world body must confront terrorism, deal with the HIV/AIDS epidemic, work to eliminate malaria, and guarantee education for all, he said.

"The declaration opens by recognizing the inherent dignity and the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family as the foundation of freedom and justice and peace in the world," Bush said.

He added that these standards must guide the work of nations. "Achieving the promise of the declaration requires confronting long-term threats. It also requires answering the immediate needs of today," the president said.

Bush said the nations of the world have differences, but they can agree on many things.

"When innocent people are trapped in a life of murder and fear, the declaration is not being upheld," he said. "When millions of children starve to death or perish from a mosquito bite, we're not doing our duty in the world. When whole societies are cut off from the prosperity of the global economy, we're all worse off."

The nations of the world need to unite to change these underlying conditions for all peoples, and the United Nations must be the catalyst for this change, he said.

"This great institution must work for great purposes: to free people from tyranny and violence, hunger and diseases, illiteracy and ignorance and poverty and despair," the president said. "Every member of the United Nations must join in this mission of liberation."

Bush, Maliki Discuss Iraqi Issues Before General Assembly Meeting

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 25, 2007 - President Bush and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki discussed key Iraqi concerns today in New York City before a host of international leaders gathered there for the United Nations General Assembly. During a photo opportunity at the Waldorf-Astoria hotel, Bush told Maliki it was good to meet with him in person instead of via videoconference, to which the leaders are accustomed. Bush said the face-to-face discussions with Maliki and his "distinguished delegation" covered a wide range of issues.

"We talked about a lot of issues and spent time talking about reconciliation and law," Bush said. "And the prime minister and the (speaker of Iraq's National Assembly) are dedicated to getting good law out of the assembly."

Bush said some Iraqi politicians may be trying to block certain laws in order to gain special advantage, and he warned that political parties there "must understand the importance of getting these laws passed."

The president told Maliki that the United States wants Iraq's security forces "well-trained, mobile and capable of handling Iraqi security on their own." The American people understand that a reduction of U.S. troop levels in Iraq will depend upon success, he added.

Iraq occupies a vital area, and success there would spawn success in the region, Bush said. "It'll send a message to other people who believe in peace," Bush said. "It'll make it easier for people to grow up with a hopeful future in the Middle East."

The president said success in Iraq also would further secure America. On the other hand, he predicted, failure in Iraq would invite chaos.

"If we were to leave before the job is done, chaos could ensue; innocent people would lose their life; extremists would be emboldened; nations that are worried about the (United States' commitment) would ... lose their nerve," he said. "The countries of the Middle East would be endangered, and that would cause America to be endangered, as well."

Bush underscored America's commitment to Maliki and said the United States -- like Iraq -- expects reconciliation and law to occur.

Maliki said the task that lies before Iraq is "gigantic." But with international cooperation, the prime minister said, he's confident that Iraq will succeed.

"Iraq's security is very important, and (President Bush and I) have talked about the importance of mutual respect between our two sides and working together for our mutual goals," he said. "We have a great deal of confidence that we will be victorious."

U.S. Goals Unchanged, But Timeline Extended, Bush Says

by Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 20, 2007 - U.S. goals for progress in Iraq have not changed, but the timeline has been set back in order to achieve those goals, President Bush said here today. Bush said the original goal of turning security control over to Iraqis in all 18 of the country's provinces by November has been delayed because progress has been slower than originally estimated. Still, he said, Iraqi control of the country's provinces is an important step in denying al Qaeda and other extremist groups' free movement in the region.

"I believe it's worth it for the security of the country. ... If we were to leave before the job is done, extremist groups like al Qaeda would be able to gain safe haven," Bush said in a wide-ranging White House news conference. "That's what they've said they want. They believe we won't have the will to hang in there and help this Iraqi government succeed, and they want us out."

Bush said he was willing to set back the timeline until summer 2008, based on military officials' guidance in the region, because securing Iraq will be "a major blow to extremists or radicals wherever they live in the Middle East."

"One of the things I feel passionately about is for the United States to recognize what a Middle East would be like if terrorists and extremists ... were to have safe haven and were emboldened by a U.S. defeat. And that's why ... one, I believe we can succeed, and two, I know we got to succeed," Bush said.

While more reconciliation is needed at the national level in terms of passing necessary legislation, local reconciliation is making progress in some areas and will eventually drive national politics, Bush said.

"There is local reconciliation taking place. I had a fascinating conversation in the Roosevelt Room earlier this week with members of provincial reconstruction teams from around Iraq who talked about how ... people are sick and tired of murder and violence and that they expect their local governments and their central government to be more responsive to their needs, and local governments are beginning to respond," Bush said. "Part of the reason why there's not this ... instant democracy in Iraq is because people are still recovering from Saddam Hussein's brutal rule.

"Local politics will drive national politics. I believe as more reconciliation takes place at the local level, you'll see a more responsive central government," Bush said.

Bush Speaks With U.S. Leaders in Iraq, Expresses Confidence

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 17, 2007 - After speaking with commanders of U.S. provincial reconstruction teams and brigade combat teams via videoconference from Iraq today, President Bush expressed confidence about the chances for success in that country. In remarks after the videoconference, Bush said that Army Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Corps Iraq, told him that for the week of Sept. 8-15, attack levels across Iraq were the lowest they have been since January 2006.

"And when you couple that with grassroots efforts that our ... provincial reconstruction teams are making, you begin to get a sense of why I'm confident that we can succeed in Iraq, why I believe that the efforts that we're making toward making sure that extremists like al Qaeda doesn't have safe haven from which to plot attacks and, at the same time, helping people realize the blessings of liberty which will yield long-term peace can happen, can succeed," Bush said.

Bush said he thanked the leaders for their service to the nation and the sacrifices they and their families make. He also cited the progress noted last week when Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker made their report to Congress.

"I told the folks there that, on behalf of a grateful nation, that we thank them for what they're doing," he said. "And I look forward to further discussions with those who actually see the progress that is taking place, with those who are living amongst the people and can report firsthand that the success that was reported on by General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker now ... is happening on a daily basis."

There is plenty of work still to be done in Iraq, Bush acknowledged, but the mission is important to U.S. security and success is possible, he said.

Bush Supports Petraeus' Recommendations on Troop Levels

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 15, 2007 - President Bush said today he supports the recommendations on reducing troop levels in Iraq made earlier this week by Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq. During his weekly radio address, Bush voiced confidence in Petraeus' suggestion that U.S. forces reduce their size by 5,700 troops in Iraq by Christmas, and that troop levels could be scaled down from 20 combat brigades to 15 by July. Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker presented their report to Congress Sept. 10-11.

"I have accepted General Petraeus' recommendations. And I have directed that he and Ambassador Crocker deliver another report to Congress in March," Bush said. "At that time, they will provide a fresh assessment of the situation in Iraq and of the troop levels we need to meet our national security objectives."

The president said his guiding principle on troop levels is "return on success."

"The more successful we are, the more troops can return home. And in all we do, I will ensure that our commanders on the ground have the troops and flexibility they need to defeat the enemy," he continued.

Bush pointed to Anbar province as an example of progress in Iraq. This time last year, an intelligence report concluded that Anbar had been lost to al Qaeda. In a dramatic reversal, local sheiks expressed desire to work alongside coalition forces, prompting the U.S. to send an additional 4,000 Marines to Anbar as part of the troop surge. Since then, young Sunnis who formerly aligned themselves with insurgent groups are joining Iraq's security forces.

"Together, local sheiks, Iraqi forces, and coalition troops drove the terrorists from the capital of Ramadi and other population centers," Bush said. "Today, citizens who once feared beheading for talking to our troops now come forward to tell us where the terrorists are hiding."

Bush said Anbar's successful model is being replicated in other parts of Iraq, including Diyala province. Once a sanctuary for extremists, Diyala is now the site of a growing popular uprising against the extremists, Bush said.

In Baghdad, he added, sectarian killings are down, and life is beginning to return to normal in many parts of the city.

"Groups of Shia extremists and Iranian-backed militants are being broken up, and many of their leaders are being captured or killed," he continued. "These gains are a tribute to our military, to Iraqi forces, and to an Iraqi government that has decided to take on the extremists."

The president said the success of a free Iraq is critical to the security of the United States, and failure there would embolden extremists.

"Al Qaeda could find new recruits and new sanctuaries. And a failed Iraq could increase the likelihood that our forces would someday have to return -- and confront extremists even more entrenched and even more deadly," he said.

By contrast, Bush said, a free Iraq will deny al Qaeda a safe haven, serve as a partner in the fight against terrorism and counter Iran's "destructive ambitions."

Bush mourned the loss of Sheikh Abdul Sattar, a Sunni sheik who was a close ally to coalition forces. Sattar was assassinated this week by extremist perpetrators. "We mourn the loss of brave Iraqis like Sheikh Sattar, and we stand with those who are continuing the fight," the president said.

Bush said Iraq's youth can ensure a more hopeful future for their country, and a more secure America by standing up to extremist influences.

"If Iraq's young democracy can turn back its enemies, it will mean a more hopeful Middle East -- and a more secure America," Bush said. "So we will help the Iraqi people defeat those who threaten their future -- and also threaten ours."

Bush Speaks at Quantico, Emphasizes Iraq's Importance

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 14, 2007 - President Bush spoke to Marines at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., today, thanking them for their service and explaining the way forward in Iraq. After meeting with young Marine officers and the enlisted troops who train them, Bush said he told the troops about his address to the nation last night, in which he endorsed Army Gen. David H. Petraeus' recommendations for the future of the U.S. mission in Iraq. Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker this week provided their assessment of the situation in Iraq following the recent troop surge.

Last night, Bush endorsed Petraeus' recommendations for reduced U.S. troop levels in Iraq by next summer and a change in the U.S. mission in Iraq to one of support for Iraqi forces.

Bush said he told the troops today that he was able to make his speech last night because of the progress on the ground in Iraq.

"I hope the American people listen very carefully to what our commanders and Ambassador Crocker had to say," Bush said. "They're there; they understand the progress that's being made."

It is in America's interest that Iraq's democracy succeeds, Bush said he told the troops, because chaos in the Middle East would embolden terrorists around the world. "I made it clear that the sacrifices that they and their families were going to make were necessary for the short-term and long-term security of the country, that we'd rather defeat the enemy overseas than have to face them here," he said.

The Iraqi people are courageous and are stepping up to the fight, Bush said, but the United States still expects the Iraqi government to pass laws to enhance reconciliation. This new approach to Iraq is a chance for Americans on both sides of the war debate to agree, because security progress is being made and the troops are coming home, he said.

"I told the American people last night we've got what's called 'return on success,'" Bush said. "I also told them that our commanders will have the flexibility and the troops needed to achieve the mission, which is an ally in this war on terror and a stable country that can self-govern, a democracy in the heart of the Middle East."

Bush noted that he was impressed with the Marines he met during his visit today.

"It's an amazing country where people volunteer in the face of danger," he said. "A lot of these Marine lieutenants fully understand the nature of the world in which we live, and they're willing to serve. They're willing to serve to protect and defend this country; they're willing to serve to help shape the conditions so the world is more peaceful."

Bush Announces Decision to Support Petraeus Recommendations

American Forces Press Service

Sept. 13, 2007 - President Bush said tonight that he accepts Army Gen. David H. Petraeus' recommendations on the U.S. strategy in Iraq and reduced troop levels. Bush said in a White House address that the strategy implemented eight months ago, which included a 30,000-troop surge, has enabled coalition troops and Iraqi security forces to make progress against al Qaeda and other extremists. He cited turnarounds in Baghdad, where violence is down, and in Anbar province, a region previously considered lost to terrorists.

While acknowledging that the challenge in Iraq remains "formidable," Bush said that testimony to Congress this week by Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker led him to conclude that conditions have improved enough to begin reducing the U.S. force.

"The premise of our strategy is that securing the Iraqi population is the foundation for all other progress," the president said. "The goal of the surge is to provide that security, and to help prepare Iraqi forces to maintain it."

Success in meeting these objectives "now allows us to begin bringing some of our troops home," he said.

Petraeus recommended that a Marine expeditionary unit deployed as part of the surge not be replaced when it leaves Iraq later this month and that one of 20 U.S. combat brigades not be replaced when it redeploys in mid-December. Four more brigade combat teams and two surge Marine battalions will redeploy without replacement during the first seven months of 2008.

This plan, which Petraeus emphasized must be carried out with close scrutiny to changing conditions on the ground, would bring down the U.S. presence in Iraq from 20 to 15 brigade combat teams by mid-July.

Bush said the principle that guided his decisions on troop levels in Iraq was "return on success."

"The more successful we are, the more American troops can return home," he said. "And in all we do, I will ensure that our commanders on the ground have the troops and flexibility they need to defeat the enemy."

Iraqi leaders support the vision of a reduced U.S. troop presence in Iraq, the president said. But, he added, they also understand that their country's success will require U.S. political, economic and security engagement that will extend beyond the Bush presidency.

"These Iraqi leaders have asked for an enduring relationship with America," he said. "And we are ready to begin building that relationship, in a way that protects our interests in the region and requires many fewer American troops."

The president conceded that political progress in Iraq hasn't occurred as quickly as hoped. "The government has not met its own legislative benchmarks, and in my meetings with Iraqi leaders, I have made it clear that they must," he said.

The Iraqi government must exert the same determination it is demonstrating as it takes on extremists to achieve reconciliation, Bush said. He acknowledged that this represents "an enormous undertaking after more than three decades of tyranny and division."

Bush expressed optimism about reconciliation taking place at the local level. "The key now is to link this progress in the provinces to progress in Baghdad," he said. "As local politics change, so will national politics."

He emphasized that Iraq's national leaders are making progress in other areas. For example, they've passed a budget and are sharing oil revenues with the provinces. Many of the positive developments aren't recognized because they "don't make headlines," Bush said, "but they do make a difference."

The president disputed claims from some corners that gains being made in Iraq have come too late. "It is never too late to deal a blow to al Qaeda," he said. "It is never too late to advance freedom. And it is never too late to support our troops in a fight they can win."

Now is no time to abandon Iraq, a U.S. ally fighting for its survival, Bush said. What happens in Iraq will have a major impact, not just on Iraq and its neighbors, but on the United States, he said.

"Terrorists and extremists who are at war with us around the world are seeking to topple Iraq's government, dominate the region, and attack us here at home," he said. "Tonight, our moral and strategic imperatives are one: We must help Iraq defeat those who threaten its future and also threaten ours."

Bush conceded that the war has left divisions, but called on the country and Congress to come together to support the mission in Iraq.

"Americans want our country to be safe and our troops to begin coming home from Iraq. Yet those of us who believe success in Iraq is essential to our security and those who believe we should bring our troops home have been at odds," he said.

Bush said the way forward he described tonight "makes it possible, for the first time in years, for people who have been on opposite sides of this difficult debate to come together."

Failure in Iraq isn't an option, the president said. "The success of a free Iraq is critical to the security of the United States," he said.

"Whatever political party you belong to, whatever your position on Iraq, we should be able to agree that America has a vital interest in preventing chaos and providing hope in the Middle East," he said. "We should be able to agree that we must defeat al Qaeda, counter Iran, help the Afghan government, work for peace in the Holy Land, and strengthen our military so we can prevail in the struggle against terrorists and extremists."

Realizing this vision "will be difficult, but it is achievable," the president said. "Our military commanders believe we can succeed. Our diplomats believe we can succeed," he said. "And for the safety of future generations of Americans, we must succeed."

Bush Agrees to Transition to Next Phase in Iraq

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 13, 2007 - In addition to a drawdown of surge forces in Iraq, President Bush said tonight that he also had accepted Army Gen. David H. Petraeus' recommendation to begin transitioning to the next phase of the U.S. strategy in Iraq in December. "As terrorists are defeated, civil society takes root, and the Iraqis assume more control over their own security, our mission in Iraq will evolve," the president said during a televised address from the Oval Office.

"Over time, our troops will shift from leading operations, to partnering with Iraqi forces, and eventually to overwatching those forces," he said.

Bush said this mission transition will enable U.S. troops to focus more on a limited set of critical tasks: counter terrorism operations, and training, equipping and supporting Iraqi forces.

After consulting with the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other members of his national security team, Bush said, he agreed to this mission shift and directed Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker to update their joint campaign plan for Iraq. This, the president said, will provide a basis for adjusting the military and civilian resources it requires.

Bush said he also directed Petraeus and Crocker to deliver another report to Congress in March. "At that time, they will provide a fresh assessment of the situation in Iraq and of the troop levels and resources we need to meet our national security objectives," he said.

The president announced tonight that he also had approved Petraeus' recommendation to begin reducing the U.S. troop strength in Iraq, based on progress being made.

"Because of this success, General Petraeus believes we have now reached the point where we can maintain our security gains with fewer American forces," the president said. "He has recommended that we not replace about 2,200 Marines scheduled to leave Anbar province later this month. In addition, he says it will soon be possible to bring home an Army combat brigade, for a total force reduction of 5,700 troops by Christmas. And he expects that by July, we will be able to reduce our troop levels in Iraq from 20 combat brigades to 15."

Bush said he based his decisions on troop levels in Iraq to "return on success" and said that the more success that takes place, the more U.S. troops can return home.

"And in all we do, I will ensure that our commanders on the ground have the troops and flexibility they need to defeat the enemy," he said.

Bush extended praise to all servicemembers, who -- along with intelligence officers, diplomats and civilians serving in Iraq -- have made a difference in Iraq.

"The progress I have reported tonight is in large part because of your courage and hard effort," he said. "You are serving far from home. Our nation is grateful for your sacrifices, and the sacrifices of your families."

Bush noted that he had received an e-mail earlier this year from the family of a National Guard soldier killed in Baghdad, Army Spec. Brandon Stout of Michigan. "His family has suffered greatly," the president said. "Yet in their sorrow, they see larger purpose."

Stout's widow, Audrey, wrote that her husband felt called to serve and knew what he was fighting for, and his parents, Tracy and Jeff, said they believe in the cause he gave his life for, Bush said. "We believe this is a war of good and evil, and we must win even if it cost the life of our own son," Bush said they wrote. "Freedom is not free."

"This country is blessed to have Americans like Brandon Stout, who make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe from harm," the president said. "They are doing so in a fight that is just and right and necessary. And now it falls to us to finish the work they have begun."

Bush said the success of a free Iraq is critical to U.S. security. A free Iraq will deny al Qaeda a safe haven and become an anchor of stability in the region "A free Iraq will be our partner in the fight against terror,- and that will make us safer here at home," he said.

In contrast, if the United States were driven from Iraq, it would embolden extremists and set up a chain of events that would be catastrophic to the United States, Bush said.

"We would leave our children to face a far more dangerous world," he said. "And as we saw on September the 11th, 2001, those dangers can reach our cities and kill our people."

Bush said he disagrees with those who say gains being made in Iraq are too little, too late.

"It is never too late to deal a blow to al Qaeda. It is never too late to advance freedom," he said. "And it is never too late to support our troops in a fight they can win."

Bush Commends Progress Made in Iraq's Anbar Province

By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 8, 2007 - Coalition and Iraqi forces have reduced violence and driven al Qaeda out of strongholds in Iraq's Anbar province, President Bush said today during his first radio address since his surprise visit there earlier this week to visit troops and assess progress. "Success in Anbar is critical to the democratic future of Iraq and to the war on terror," Bush said, as he described the significance of the province that spans nearly a third of the country and until recently served as al Qaeda's main headquarters for operations throughout Iraq.

The president commended the local citizens and tribal sheiks in the region who have come together to fight the al Qaeda terrorists who have brutalized and killed those who opposed their "dark ideology."

Though a year ago it was widely reported that Anbar was lost, Bush said, local governments are again in session, young Sunnis are joining the police and the army, and normal life is returning for the province's citizens.

"The people of Anbar have seen that standing up to the terrorists and extremists leads to a better life," he said. "And Anbar has shown that improving security is the first step toward achieving economic progress and political reconciliation."

During his visit to the war-torn land, Bush met with the country's president, vice president, prime minister and deputy prime minister. Although the men come from different religious and ethnic backgrounds, Bush said, they all understand the importance of success in the region.

And while he thanked them for their efforts in the "bottom-up progress," Bush said he told the men that the American people expect them to meet their commitments and pass the legislation they've agreed on.

While in Iraq, the president also met with the U.S. military's top commander in the region, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker. The two updated him on military, political and economic efforts there as they prepare to give Congress their formal assessment of conditions on the ground.

Although he visited with the Iraqi and U.S. leaders in the region, Bush said, the most important part of his trip was the opportunity to visit with U.S. troops serving in Anbar.

"Every day, these fine men and women show courage under incredibly difficult circumstances," the commander in chief said. "The work they're doing on the sands of Anbar is making us safer in the streets of America." He said their bravery and sacrifices are denying al Qaeda safe havens from which to plot and carry out attacks against Americans worldwide.

"I know how hard it is for our men and women in uniform to be away from their families," Bush said. "I told them our nation appreciates their willingness to serve and that the American people stand with them."

Bush said that following consultations next week with the Joint Chiefs of Staff, his national security team, members of Congress and Iraqi leaders, he will address the American public directly.

"I will lay out a vision for future involvement in Iraq, one that I believe the American people and their elected leaders of both parties can support," he said. "By coming together on the way forward, we will strengthen Iraq's democracy, deal a blow to our enemies, secure interests in the Middle East, and make our nation safer."

Bush Proclaims 'National Days of Prayer and Remembrance'

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 6, 2007 - President Bush is urging Americans to light candles and ring bells to honor terrorism victims and servicemembers during "National Days of Prayer and Remembrance" tomorrow through Sept. 9. Bush carved out the symbolic calendar days to encourage Americans to remember the 2,974 people killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and to reaffirm the global terror war's foundation, according to a proclamation the White House released yesterday.

"During this year's National Days of Prayer and Remembrance, we honor the thousands of victims who died in the brutal and ruthless attacks in New York City, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon," Bush said in the proclamation. "I ask that the people of the United States and their places of worship mark these (days) with memorial services, the ringing of bells, and evening candlelight remembrance vigils."

He also invited people around the world to participate in the days of prayer and remembrance.

Bush added that the nation remembers with gratitude the firefighters, police officers and citizens who acted with courage and compassion after four hijacked commercial airplanes crashed at three sites on U.S. soil, and he issued a stern warning to those who perpetrate or condone such attacks.

"Never forgetting that terrible day, we remain determined to bring our enemies to justice, defy the terrorists' ideology of hate, and work to make our world safer," he said.

The president paid homage to some 4,177 servicemembers killed during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and thanked members currently serving in the U.S. military.

"We are grateful for those who continue to protect our nation and our way of life. Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication help preserve our freedom," Bush said in the proclamation. "We pray for their safety, for all those who love them, and for the peace we all seek."

He said the nation remains hopeful, due to kind and compassionate Americans' commitment to freedom and opportunity.

"During these days of prayer and remembrance, we reflect on all we have lost and take comfort in each other and in the grace and mercy of our Creator," the president said. "May God guide us, give us strength and wisdom, and may He continue to bless our great country."

Military Surge Working, Bush Tells Troops in Iraq

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 3, 2007 - The military surge into Iraq is working, President Bush told troops today during a surprise visit here. The president said he came to Anbar province so he could see the success in the war on terror and thank the men and women who are making sacrifices for that success.

Bush, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Gen. Peter Pace, and U.S. Central Command chief Navy Adm. William Fallon flew in to meet with Army Gen. David Petraeus, Multinational Force Iraq commander, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker.

The president also met with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki and Iraqi President Jalal Talibani.

The president told the more than 700 servicemembers assembled in the morale, welfare and recreation center at this sprawling base that he is "incredibly proud to be the commander-in-chief of such a great group of men and women."

The soldiers, Marines, sailors and airmen in the audience gave the president a rousing welcome. Calls of "Hooah" came from the soldiers and "Oorah" from the Marines, many of whom have had multiple deployments to the region.

"I want to tell you this about ... my decision about troop levels," the president said. "Those decisions will be based on a calm assessment by our military commanders on the conditions on the ground – not a nervous reaction by Washington politicians to poll results in the media."

The president said he will order redeployments from Iraq "from a position of strength and success, not from a position of fear and failure."

Their service in Iraq is making the United States more secure, Bush told the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines, some of whom had waited four hours for the president to appear.

Bush highlighted the results of the "Anbar Awakening" and other progress as a result of the surge of five brigades of U.S. soldiers into the country.

He told the servicemembers that the Sunni tribesmen, who once fought side-by-side with al Qaeda in Iraq, are now fighting side-by-side with coalition troops against al Qaeda.

"Anbar is a huge province," Bush said. "It was once written off as lost. It is now one of the safest places in Iraq, because of your hard work."

The president credited the bravery and sacrifice of U.S. servicemembers for denying al Qaeda a safe haven to plot and plan and carry out attacks against the United States. The sacrifice in Iraq makes America safer, Bush told the servicemembers.

The work is not done, Bush said.

"The surge of operations that began in June is improving security throughout Iraq," he said. "The military successes are paving the way for the political reconciliation and economic progress the Iraqis need to transform their country."

Once secure, Iraqis can concentrate on building a stable, civil society with functioning local, provincial and national governments. "That's important, because a free Iraq, an Iraq that's an ally against these extremists and murderers will be a major defeat for the terrorists," Bush said.

Reconciliation cannot be forced on the Iraqis, they must do it themselves, the president said.

"Earlier today I met with some of the tribal sheiks here in Anbar," he said. "It was a really interesting meeting. And at the table were the leaders of the central government, as well. They told me that the kind of bottom-up progress that your efforts are bringing to Anbar is vital to the success and stability of a free Iraq."

Iraq needs stability to build a better future, he said, "and America needs this stability to prevent the chaos that allows the terrorists to set up bases from which they can plot and plan attacks on our homeland.

"If we don't want to hear their footsteps back home, we have to keep them on their heels over here," he said.

"That's exactly what you're doing," he told the troops, "and America is safer for it."

President Assembles 'War Council' in Anbar Province

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 3, 2007 - President Bush has assembled his "war council" here in a surprise holiday weekend-meeting, at this remote air base, in what is probably the group's last meeting before the president makes his decision on next steps for U.S. involvement in the war. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Navy Adm. William Fallon, commander of U.S. Central Command, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker are all slated to meet with top Iraqi political leaders over the next several hours.

Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki, President Jalal Talabani, Vice President Tariq al Hashimi, Vice President Adel Abdul Mahdi, and Massoud Barzani, president of the semiautonomous Kurdish region, are all slated to meet with the U.S. officials.

"This will be the last big gathering of the president's top military advisors and the Iraqi leadership before the president makes a decision about the way forward," said Geoff Morrell, Pentagon press secretary. "This is very much a decisional meeting. This meeting will put him [the president] much closer to making a decision, if he hasn't already."

The president and his top decision-makers traveled here to discuss progress in Iraq "face-to-face" with key leaders on the ground as he prepares his recommendations for the next steps in the theater, officials said.

The meeting comes days before Petraeus is scheduled to report before Congress on progress made here.

Gates did not address the press during the overnight flight, but a senior Defense Department official traveling with the secretary, speaking on background, told reporters the trip is all within the "context of making a decision" about future plans for Iraq.

"Nothing beats looking your commander in the eye ... and saying 'What do you think? What do we need to do? How's this coming along?" the official said. "I think it's instrumental to the decision process, for what the military recommendations are going to be, and the defense department's recommendations are going to be to the president."

The group is also slated to meet with local tribal leaders to discuss the recent surge of support for coalition forces in the region.

This is Gates' second trip to this western-most province in Iraq that was once considered hopelessly lost to the insurgency. In recent months, though, tribal leaders and forces have begun siding with U.S. and Iraqi forces to repel al Qaeda in Iraq.

The official said Gates has read and heard military and media reports on the emergence of support for coalition forces in the former insurgent stronghold, but wanted to see the progress first-hand.

"This is an opportunity for him to get a perspective on it while he's out there," the official said. "These are other people that are reaching out to work with the coalition, work with the Iraqi government. And even though they are unofficial at this point, it's important for all of us to hear what they have to say and recognize that they can be, and have been up to this point, a healthy part of stabilizing Anbar and other parts of western Baghdad."

Gates is also slated to meet with about 700 Marines at the base during his visit. Nearly 35,000 Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen serve in Multinational Force West.

Al Asad Airbase is the second largest air base in Iraq and is about 120 miles northwest of Baghdad.

Bush: With Continued Success, Fewer Troops Will Be Needed

By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service

Sept. 3, 2007 - President Bush said here today that if reported successes continue in Iraq it will eventually be possible to maintain the same level of security with fewer troops. Flanked by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, the president spoke to reporters for a few minutes following meetings with top military and political leaders in the country. He stopped short of stating when troop sizes could be drawn down in the region.

"General (David H.) Petraeus and Ambassador (Ryan C.) Crocker tell me if the kind of success we are now seeing continues, it will be possible to maintain the same level of security with fewer Americans," the president said.

In a surprise visit here, President Bush assembled his "war council" at this remote air base in what was most likely the group's last meeting before the president makes his decision on next steps for U.S. involvement in the war.

Gates, Marine Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Navy Adm. William Fallon, commander of U.S. Central Command, Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, Rice, and Crocker all met with top Iraqi political leaders as well as Anbar provincial tribal leaders.

Bush said he was encouraged by the update he received today from Petraeus and Crocker and touted recent progress especially in the Anbar province.

"I was pleased with what I heard," the president said. "The strategy we put in place earlier this year was designed to help the Iraqis improve their security so that political and economic progress could follow. And that is exactly the effect it is having in places like Anbar.

Bush said continuing this progress is vital to meeting the strategic interests of our nation.

"We can't take this progress for granted. Here in Anbar and across Iraq, al Qaeda and other enemies of freedom will continue to try to kill the innocent in order to impose their dark ideology," Bush said.

Bush later met with tribal leaders from Anbar province, sending a message of support for the successes in the region that have brought heralded by top leaders as key to a secure, stable Iraq.

"I am going to reassure them that America does not abandon our friends. And America will not abandon the Iraqi people. That's the message all three of us bring," Bush said.

Bush said he was told last summer that the region was lost and could be recovered. But that the locals rejected the ideals of the al Qaeda extremists and eventually sided with coalition forces to drive out the insurgents.

"They rejected the dark vision of al Qaeda. They didn't like the idea of murderers deciding their fate," the president said. "They organized themselves. They took on the terrorists and they asked for our help."

In response to what officials are calling a tribal "awakening," military officials sent 4,000 more U.S. Marines to help reinforce the areas cleared of al Qaeda and secure the gains the tribes were worried about holding.

"Together with the brave Iraqis we have gone into al Qaeda strongholds and have driven them out," Bush said.

As a result, the level of violence is down, police are more in control and normal life is returning, Bush said.

"The people of this province are seeing that standing up to the extremists is the path to a better life. That success is possible," Bush said.

Bush said that the Anbar province represents the future of Iraq.

President Thanks Troops for Their Hard Work During Labor Day Visit

American Forces Press Service

Sept. 3, 2007 - During a surprise Labor Day visit to Iraq today, President Bush thanked about 700 U.S. troops at Al Asad Air Base for their hard work. "Every day, you show bravery under incredibly difficult circumstances," the president said. "Every day you're working on the sands of Anbar that is making it safer in the streets of America. Every day the United States of America is grateful for what you're doing."

Bush also expressed his gratitude to the troops' families back home. "I want you to tell your families the commander in chief stopped by to say hello and he said, 'I'm incredibly proud to be the commander in chief of such a great group of men and women."
Al Asad Air Base is the second largest airbase in Iraq and is about 120 miles northwest of Baghdad. The Marines are among nearly 35,000 Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen serving in Multinational Force West.

Bush told the troops he was traveling in good company, referring to the top leaders who met with him in Iraq's Anbar province -- Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker,, National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley, Navy Adm. William Fallon, commander of U.S. Central Command, and Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq.

"I brought out the A Team," Bush said, "so they could be with the folks that are making a significant difference in this war against these radicals and extremists. In Anbar, you're seeing first hand the dramatic differences that can come when the Iraqis are more secure. In other words, you're seeing success."

Bush Stresses Importance of Iraq Fight

By Sgt. Sara Wood, USA
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 28, 2007 - Defeating extremists in the Middle East is essential to America's security, and the most important way to counter these extremists is to win the fight in Iraq, President Bush said today. "The challenge in Iraq comes down to this: Either the forces of extremism succeed, or the forces of freedom succeed. Either our enemies advance their interests in Iraq, or we advance our interests," Bush said at the 89th Annual American Legion National Convention in Reno, Nev.

The violent ideology that inspires extremists in the Middle East has two main strains, Bush said: Sunni extremism and Shiia extremism. These two strains are vying for control of Iraq, and both want to drive America out of the region, which would represent a direct threat to the United States and its allies, he said.

America has enduring interests in the Middle East, such as creating a region of secure democratic states participating in the war on terror, drying up the stream of recruits for al Qaeda, encouraging the government of Iran to be accountable to its people, and advancing a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, Bush said.

"We seek justice and dignity and human rights for all the people of the Middle East," Bush said. "Achieving this future requires hard work and strategic patience over many years. Yet our security depends on it."

Iraq is the central front in the war on terror, and it is where Sunni and Shiia extremists are staging sensational attacks in an attempt to bring down the young democracy, Bush said. Sunni extremists are led by al Qaeda and frequently target innocent Iraqis with violent attacks, many carried out by foreign fighters. Shiia extremists are backed by Iran and are training Iraqis to carry out attacks on coalition forces, the Iraqi government and the Iraqi people, Bush said.

"We've seen what these enemies will do when American forces are actively engaged in Iraq," Bush said. "And we can envision what they would do if they were emboldened by American forces in retreat."

Momentum in Iraq is in the coalition's favor, Bush said. The new U.S. strategy in Iraq is showing results in better security, with sectarian violence sharply decreasing in Baghdad and al Qaeda being displaced from former strongholds in Baghdad and in Anbar and Diyala provinces. Also, since January, coalition forces have killed or captured an average of more than 1,500 al Qaeda terrorists each month and have targeted Iranian-backed militants and their supply networks, he said.

The U.S. strategy also is producing encouraging results at the local level in Iraq, Bush said. In Anbar province, which was once thought to be lost to insurgents, local Sunnis have turned against al Qaeda and joined with U.S. forces to drive terrorists out of their cities, he noted. Virtually every city and town in the province now has a mayor and municipal council, he said, and local officials are forming ties with the central government in Baghdad.

Other provinces also are showing signs of progress, Bush said. In Diyala province, the city of Baqubah re-opened six banks, and in Ninewah province, local officials have established a commission to investigate corruption.

"Iraqis are increasingly reaching accommodations with each other, with the coalition, and with the government in Baghdad," Bush said. "This reconciliation is coming from the bottom up. It's having an impact in the fight against the enemy, and it's building a solid foundation for a democratic Iraq."

Bush acknowledged that Iraq has much more progress to make on the national level, but said he was encouraged by the agreement reached Aug. 26 by the top leaders in Iraq's government. The leaders agreed on several draft pieces of legislation, such as a law on de-Baathification reform and legislation on provincial powers, which are among the benchmarks identified by Congress.

"These measures still have to be passed by the Iraqi parliament, but the agreement shows that Iraq's leaders can put aside their differences, they can sit down together, and they can work out tough issues central to the fate of their country," Bush said.
At the international level, the new strategy in Iraq also is showing results, Bush said. International developments include:

-- The United Nations and Iraq, with support from the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and other nations, have finalized an International Compact for Iraq that will bring new economic assistance and debt relief in exchange for aggressive economic reform.

-- The Iraqis have convened a neighbors conference, which is bringing together countries in the region to help Iraq through security, economic and diplomatic cooperation.

-- The United Nations Security Council has decided to expand its mission in Iraq and is seeking to help with local elections and reconciliation. The UN will soon name a new high-ranking envoy to Iraq to coordinate the expanded effort.

-- Saudi Arabia is looking to open a new embassy in Baghdad.

"The international community increasingly understands the importance of a free Iraq. They understand a free Iraq is important for world peace. And that is why we'll continue to rally the world for this noble and necessary cause," Bush said.

Bush noted that some critics say the lack of political progress on the national level in Iraq proves the surge has failed. However, improving security is the vital precursor to making gains in other areas, like the government and economy, and local political progress will come before national progress, he said.

Bush also emphasized that Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and other leaders are dealing with complex and emotional issues that can be likened to the struggle for civil rights in the U.S. They are trying to resolve these issues in a challenging security environment, after decades of tyranny and oppression, he said.

"Iraq's leaders aren't perfect, but they were elected by their people," Bush said. "They want what we want: a free Iraq that fights terrorists instead of harboring them. Leaders in Washington need to look for ways to help our Iraqi allies succeed, not excuses for abandoning them."

The challenge the United States faces in Iraq is hard, Bush said, but Americans should appreciate how difficult establishing democracy can be. The men and women of America's military understand why they're in this fight and one day will join the ranks of veterans and look back on their service with pride, he said.

"One day, years from now, another president will be in a room like this," Bush told the room of military veterans. "That president will look out upon a sea of caps worn by those who show a quiet pride in their service.

"Some of that audience will include people who've won the fight against fascism and Nazism and communism. You'll be joined by younger veterans who have fought in places like Kandahar and Ramadi," he added. "And just like you, the new generation of veterans will be able to say proudly they held fast against determined and ruthless enemies, helped salvage an entire region from tyranny and terror, and made a safer world for the American people."

Bush Praises Iraqi De-Baathification Agreement

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 27, 2007 - President Bush today praised Iraqi leaders for an agreement that will allow former low-level Baath Party officials to serve in the Iraqi government. The agreement helps meet one of the specific benchmarks set by U.S. legislators and shows progress in the political arena, Bush said during a stop at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, N.M.

Iraqi President Jalal Talibani; Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki; Vice President Tariq al-Hashimi; Vice President Adil Abd al-Mahdi; and Massoud Barzani, president of the semi-autonomous Kurdish region, hammered out the agreement and announced the breakthrough yesterday in Baghdad. The agreement still must pass the Iraqi parliament, but U.S. officials are hopeful for its success, since the men represent the largest sects in Iraq.

"I congratulate Iraq's leaders on the agreement reached yesterday in Baghdad," Bush said in New Mexico. "These leaders ... recognize the true and meaningful reconciliation that needs to take place, and they recognize this is a process. Yesterday's agreement reflects their commitment to work together for the benefit of all Iraqis to further the process."

The agreement will begin to establish new power-sharing arrangements, the president said. It also commits to supporting bottom-up security and political initiatives and advances agreement among Iraq's leadership on several key legislative benchmarks.

Reforming the de-Baathification law has been a top priority for the Iraqi government, along with a hydrocarbon law and a revenue-sharing law. Sunni Arabs held many positions of responsibility in Saddam Hussein's Baath Party, and Shiia Arabs and Kurds worry that the Sunni minority will return to power.

Bush called the agreement an important step, but said he reminded Iraqi leaders in phone calls that much more needs to be done.

"The Iraqi parliament will convene again in early September, and it will need to act to codify this political progress," he said.

The president said the United States will continue to help the Iraqi people succeed. "Success in Iraq will be a major blow to the extremists and radicals who would like to attack America again," he said. "And that's why the United States will continue to support Iraq's leaders and all the Iraqi people in their efforts to overcome the forces of terror that seek to overthrow a nascent democracy."