U.S. troops listen to U.S. Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta at Camp Victory, Iraq, July 11, 2011. DOD photo by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jacob N. BaileyWhat To Leave Behind In Iraq -- Jacob Stokes, Real Clear World
After a period of stalling that has infuriated U.S. officials - "Dammit, make a decision" were Defense Secretary Leon Panetta's words - earlier this month, the Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, announced that it would enter talks with the U.S. about keeping troops in the country past the end of the year.
If that process can result in an official request from the Iraqi government, America should consider a narrow presence that focuses on training, not combat support, and providing security for U.S. civilians in the country.
Read more ....
My Comment: My altitude towards Iraq has always been .... good riddance. Unfortunately, some form of agreement is going to be reach with the Iraqi government, and a good number of Americans are going to stay behind ... whether they are military and/or civilian contractor.