Next up for Bush in Iraq: "quick-strike" attacks

[ProSense]

General: Quick strikes planned in Iraq

By PAULINE JELINEK, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 3 minutes ago

WASHINGTON - The U.S. military is planning a series of "quick-strike" attacks all around Iraq to go after militants who evaded the big military operation of recent weeks, a top commander said Friday.

Army Lt. Gen. Ray Odierno also said commanders right now are planning to withdraw by August next year all troops sent as part of President Bush's buildup this year.

Military operations launched since America's troop buildup have helped coalition forces retake some territory in main population centers from extremists, he said, adding that militants have now moved to remote areas. He noted this week's devastating bomb attack in two remote northern villages that officials say killed at least 500 people.

"Due to the constant pressure and depletion of their leadership, extremists have been pushed out of many population centers and are on the move, seeking other places to operate within the country," Odierno told a Pentagon press conference by video from Baghdad.

"As a result, we are now in pursuit of al-Qaida and other extremist elements, and we'll continue to aggressively target their shrinking areas of influence," he said.

"Over the coming weeks, we plan to conduct quick-strike raids against remaining extremist sanctuaries and staging areas," Odierno said.

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So much for the failed surge. Now that hell has broken loose, Bush is going to try "quick strikes" to end Iraq's civil war.

[aquart]

1. Translation: We're going to kill lots of Iraqis very quickly.

Then run like hell.

[shadowknows69]

2. Quick Strike=500lb bombs?

Or leveling certain areas we've declared "enemy combatant zones" with artillery. The infantry brigades that have been going from our base always travel with an ARTY support contingent so they're using those howitzers and mortars on something.

[Javaman]

3. isn't this a fancy name for, "search and destroy" missions? nt

[EstimatedProphet]

4. Great. Bush got an idea off of a box of matches.

Next he'll recruit the WH press secretary by seeing who can draw the best pirate.

[shadowknows69]

5. Hilarious EP

if not so tragically, probably factual.

[karlrschneider]

6. Prolly more like who can BE the best pirate...

:evilgrin:

[ProSense]

7. Kick! n/t