Defense Secretary Robert Gates, left, with Gen. Ray Odierno, leaving Baghdad Wednesday for Irbil, Iraq. Getty ImagesU.S. Brigade May Leave Iraq Early: Gates -- CBC News
A U.S. combat brigade may withdraw from Iraq ahead of schedule because of a sustained drop in violence in the country, says U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates.
"I think there's at least some chance for a modest acceleration," Gates said Wednesday after concluding a two-day visit to Iraq.
The early withdrawal of a heavy fighting force following Iraq's elections in January is under consideration because the situation is "better than expected" following the June 30 handover of control of Iraqi cities, Gates told reporters.
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