Iraqis to lead role for security by years end

[edward]

This sounds good, but who are they kidding, the new Iraqi govenment officials can't even travel outside of the greeen zone. Policemen are issued a single Glock handgun, and soldiers are issued an AK47.

On the other side the insergents have morters, RPG's, rockets and heavy machine guns. Dozens of newly trained Iraqi soldiers deserted recently when they found out that they would not be serving in their home towns.

In reality The situation in Iraq hasn't changed in the past several years. This sounds like American election year hype and it is coming from an Iraqi.

Iraqis to assume lead role for security by year's end, leader says

BY LIZ SLY
Chicago Tribune
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said Monday that Iraqi forces will assume the lead role for security from U.S. forces across most of Iraq by the end of the year, with the exception of "hot spots" such as Baghdad and the restive western province of Anbar.

Speaking during a surprise visit to Baghdad by Britain's Tony Blair intended to show support for Iraq's newly installed government, al-Maliki said the two southern provinces of Amara and Samawah, which are under British control, would be handed over to Iraqi forces next month, with "most of the provinces" to follow in the months after that.

His timetable coincides closely with the targets set by the U.S. military, which aims to give Iraqis the lead role for security over all of Iraq by the end of the year, according to the U.S. general in charge of training the Iraqi army.

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/world/14636375.htm

 

[Astronuc]

I'll believe that when I see it.

Frankly, I am deeply skeptical, almost to the point of cynicism.

I do know that there are many Iraqis, both Sunni and Shia, and Kurd, who simply want the conflict to end, so that they can get on with normal lives. May it be so!

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

I would say that while it is certainly a positive step for Iraqis to take on a larger role in their own security, there are still many challenges and obstacles that need to be addressed. The fact that Iraqi government officials are unable to travel outside of the green zone and that newly trained soldiers are deserting due to concerns about serving in their home towns is concerning. It is also worrying that insurgents have access to more advanced weapons than Iraqi police and soldiers.

While it is important to have a timeline and goals for Iraqi forces to take over security, it is equally important to ensure that they are properly equipped, trained, and supported in their efforts. Without addressing these issues, it is unlikely that the situation in Iraq will see significant improvement. It is also important for the international community to continue supporting and assisting Iraq in their efforts towards security and stability.