Many positive developments in Iraq

Did you know there is a vast region of Iraq where no U.S. troops have been killed, enemy terrorist activity has been negligible, there are few U.S. troops deployed, it is safe for Westerners to walk the streets, new business investment is taking off and there is a stable, democratic government providing more than adequately for the regions security? The good — no, make that outstanding — news from Kurdistan is that life in the northern Iraqi region is well on the way to normalcy. It’s not your fault for not knowing. The relentlessly negative Western media have not told the Kurds’ story. Read the rest HERE.

U.S. COMMANDER OPTIMISTIC ABOUT IRAQI FORCES TAKEOVER WITHIN 18 MONTHS: General George Casey, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, was optimistic yesterday (August 30th) that Iraqi forces will be able to provide their own security within 18 months. Casey said, "I don't have a date, but I can see over the next 12 to 18 months, the Iraqi security forces progressing to a point where they can take on the security responsibilities for the country, with very little coalition support." Once that happens, U.S. troops wouldn't leave immediately, however. The plan is for the U.S. forces to hand over responsibility to the Iraqis and then move into large bases and provide support while Iraqis take the lead. A drawdown of U.S. forces would begin after that.