>>>When do you think we'll start withdrawing troops in significant numbers?<<<
Ah, a very great question!
I think the first step to take in order to do this, in a sensible way, is to first admit that the US made a grave error by invading Iraq--that the emotional charge not only from the 9/11 experience but also from the long years of bitterness and animosity of the US vs. Saddam, caused America to act blindly in its want for War on Iraq. In effect, a Duke Cunningham-like apology is in order.
Another aspect of the presentation would require an echo of the House Resolution recently passed asserting the US has no desire for permanent military bases in Iraq.
Where do you do this?
I'd think a presentation before the Arab League, or at a conference of Arab scholars would be an appropriate place to deliver such a statement. Perhaps even a speech before the United Nations. Or Bush could invite Arab leaders to the White House for a joint presentation.
Personally, I'd opt for the UN has much healing needs be done there as well.
So that'd be the first part theme of the speech. The second part would include a plea for helping to solve the conflicts in the area--perhaps a request for solutions from other nations to the problem.
The end part of the speech would set a date by which the US troops will begin significantly withdrawing, no matter what happens in followup to the offering of the olive branch. Remain firm on the timetable of the dates set.
You see, I think the necessary cure to this problem is first a need for a reduction of hatred. Diplomacy requires trust and no such trust can exist in a theater of hatred which presently prevails. America needs to restore its standing in the world. I think doing the above would go a long ways toward doing this and just might help us get our soldiers home safely. Then we can squarely confront more pressing international issues like nuclear proliferation, global warming, poverty and disease, etc. |
