U.S. general casts doubt on 2006 troop cut in Iraq

[Eugene]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20050928/ts_nm/iraq_usa_troops_dc

U.S. general casts doubt on 2006 troop cut in Iraq

By Will Dunham 2 hours, 39 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The top U.S. general in Iraq on Wednesday
cast doubt on his previous forecasts of a substantial cut in American
forces in 2006, saying Iraq was in a period of heightened uncertainty
that made it "too soon to tell" if troops can be brought home.

In March and again in July, Army Gen. George Casey, who commands the
147,000 U.S. troops in Iraq, predicted a "fairly substantial"
reduction in American forces next spring and summer if Iraq's
political process goes positively and progress is made in developing
Iraqi security forces. Pentagon officials said that meant a
reduction of perhaps 20,000 to 30,000 troops.

After briefing U.S. lawmakers behind closed doors on Capitol Hill on
Wednesday, Casey was more cautious when asked whether the troop
reduction was still possible.

"I think right now we're in a period of a little greater uncertainty
than when I was asked that question back in July and March," Casey
told reporters, noting that Iraqis vote on a draft constitution in
an October 15 referendum and, if they endorse it, then elect a new
government on December 15.

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more...

[UrbScotty]

1. Hopefully he has a retirement plan ready (nt)

[bluestateguy]

2. Just watch

2 or 3 days later another "unnamed general" or "Pentagon official" will make an off the record remark about optimistic prospects for troop cuts for 2006.

Just watch.

Pass the popcorn please.

[Mr_Jefferson_24]

3. "...now we're in a period of a little greater uncertainty..."

...Gee, that would be anything like the bottom falling completely out, would it?