In testimony to the House & Senate Armed Services Committees today, U.S. Gen. George Casey, the most senior commander of coalition forces in Iraq, says the number of combat-ready Iraqi battalions has dropped from
three to one!
Poll and more below fold
"It doesn't feel like progress," says Rep. Susan Collins (R-ME). As for Sen. McCain...according to USA Today:
Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., questioned
why the generals are discussing troop withdrawals when it's clear Iraqi security forces aren't ready.
"You're taking a very big gamble here. I hope you're correct. I don't see the indicators yet that we are ready to plan or begin troop withdrawals given the overall security situation. And that just isn't my opinion alone," he said.
So, what's up with all the Pentagon chatter about U.S. troop withdrawals starting real soon (in 2006)?