Iraq Policy a 'Tragedy of Errors,' Kerry Says
By THE NEW YORK TIMES
Published: April 18, 2004
MIAMI, April 17 — Senator John Kerry used the Democratic response to President Bush's radio address on Saturday to continue hammering the administration on its handling of the Iraq war.
"The president may not want to admit to mistakes, but his choices in Iraq have so far produced a tragedy of errors," Mr. Kerry said. "The failure of the administration to internationalize the conflict has lost us time, momentum and credibility — and made America less safe."
"Staying the course," he added, "does not mean stubbornly holding to the wrong course."
Mr. Kerry laid out an agenda starting with adding troops. He also proposes "an international mission authorized by the United Nations" to serve as the main civilian force to revive the Iraqi economy and government, and a NATO security force led by an American commander to keep peace.
"Because of the go-it-alone policy in Iraq, our troops have borne 90 percent of the risks and casualties, while our taxpayers have paid 90 percent of the costs," he said. "Our stubborn unilateral policy in Iraq has steadily drifted from tragedy to tragedy. Our troops deserve better."
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