Iraq Requests Troop Withdrawal

In a turn of events, the government of Iraq has requested for coalition forces to plan a withdrawal of troops over the next two years. The change of heart by the Iraqis can be viewed in many different lights such as an affirmation of the surge's success or as an ignominious political endorsement. According to McCain, "The Iraqis have made it clear to me, including meetings I had with the president and foreign minister in Iraq, that it is based on conditions on the ground. That's what I've always said. I've always said we will come home with honor and victory and not a timetable." On the other hand, Obama alludes the timetable requests as an endorsement of his plans, "I think that Prime Minister Maliki's statement is consistent with my view about how a withdrawal should proceed and how a status-of-force agreement should not be structured without congressional input and should not be rushed." Although the administration is considering how to proceed with the request, top advisers readily admit the situation is delicate and significant risks are involved with a withdrawal.

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