Trump is determined to bring our troops home from our longest war and now he is working on reducing our military footprint in Iraq as well.
Yes this is one of those promises Trump made back in 2016…..and now he may be holding to it…..
Many months after the Iraqi parliament voted unanimously to expel US forces, the question of future troop levels is finally up for discussion at this weeks talks.
Iraq is driven by trying to avoid hosting a US-Iran proxy war, and sees not hosting US troops as the path of least resistance. US officials took permanent basing in Iraq as a given and are willing to do anything to Iraq to protect that.
This was why Trump threatened sanctions worse than Iran for the very suggestion the US should pullout. Even then, there was no consideration of leaving.
This is also why these talks cover the full US-Iraq relationship and not just troop levels. This allows the US to threaten cuts everywhere else if they don’t get what they want.
Pentagon officials say they expect Iraq will at least let them stay through the “final final victory” over ISIS. But again, there is no suggestion the US might actually leave after that.
Contrary to popular belief….I give credit when it is due…..and Trump gets credit if he is entering into these negotiations honestly and not just trying to gain a few points for the election.
I Read, I Write, You Know
“lego ergo scribo”
I can attest first hand, that the US footprint in Iraq is shrinking and has pulled back into a few hub bases, with more reduction to follow. What remains to be seen however, is if the new PM can reign in the rogue militia groups (Iranian backed) while reducing the ISF’s reliance on Coalition assistance.
Another promise that took 3+ years to start….thanx for the update chuq
Entering into discussions is a very long way from the troops arriving home. Let’s hope they all get back safe.
Best wishes, Pete.
True that but I think Trump needs the lift in the polls so it looks better than average. chuq
If he is entering the negotiations honestly? Did you say “Honestly?” Surely you jest!
Poor choice of words on my part…..but no matter he needs a boost in the polls and this could help chuq