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October 01, 2005
President Bush's Math: 1 = 100
Gen. George Casey, commanding general of coalition forces in Iraq, told Congress on Thursday of this week that there was only one Iraqi battalion capable of fighting on its own.
In June, the Pentagon told lawmakers that three Iraqi battalions were fully trained, equipped and capable of operating independently. Today, Casey said only one battalion is ready. [AP via MSNBC]
During this morning's radio address to the nation, President Bush said,
I'm encouraged by the increasing size and capability of the Iraqi security forces. Today they have more than 100 battalions operating throughout the country, and our commanders report that the Iraqi forces are serving with increasing effectiveness. In fact, this week coalition forces were able to turn over security responsibility for one of Iraq's largest cities, Karbala, to Iraqi soldiers. As Iraqi forces show they're capable of fighting the terrorists, they are earning the trust and confidence of the Iraqi people, which will ensure the success of a free and democratic Iraq. [ Whitehouse Press Room ]
Now I understand that differences in combat readiness are an issue but there is a whole lot more that just definitions of combat readiness involved in this disconnect. And I'm sure the Pentagon's definition fully trained, equipped and capable of operating independently has not changed in the last four months.
If you reread the President's statement, you will see the words, "this week coalition forces were able to turn over security responsibility for one of Iraq's largest cities, Karbala, to Iraqi soldiers." This is likely intended to provide cover for both the President and General Casey should anyone ask them to explain their differences. Hiding the truth among a group of vague and misleading statements is just another way to lie.
Posted by DuaneSmith at October 1, 2005 08:31 PM | Read more on Current Events |
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