White House and Pentagon spin-men have been working overtime in the last two weeks to make clear that the United States had fully intended to continue its military presence in Iraq past the deadline, but was thwarted by the Iraqis' unhelpful refusal to allow American forces to commit crimes with impunity in their country.
The residual military presence of 3,000-5,000 troops, placed strategically around the country, was to be concentrated in Baghdad. The negotiations with Maliki failed, hence the claim that the WH was being forced to honoUr the existing agreement on withdrawal.
Meanwhile we are also told that the Pentagon will keep "at least" 5,000 armed "security personnel" -- mercenaries mainly. These 5,000 will be stationed in strategic locations around Iraq goes the story. The truth is most likely nothing like the message these statements convey.
As you said before -- - they are leaving --- except those that are staying - - .
ReplyDeleteThe others will be stationed near by for another redeployment.
This is far, far from over.