Secretary of Defence makes Unannounced Visit to Iraq

by Karl Gotthardt - albertacowpoke | July 28, 2009 at 08:16 am

91 views | 16 Recommendations | 0 comments

U.S. Secretary of Defence made an unannouced visit to Baghdad today. He will be visiting U.S. troops and Iraqi government officials, including Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

Gates stated that the security situation seems to have improved substantially since his last visit. Gates is meeting with top U.S. Military Commanders to determine how quickly he can shift assets to Afghanistan.

While the Kurds are of some concern, there is still a major concern with the conflicts between Shiites and Sunis.

The Obama Administration is holding firm on its commitment to withdraw the bulk of its Forces by 2011-2012.

There are still some concerns about Iran's influence in the region.

Baghdad, Iraq (AHN) - U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates landed in Baghdad on Tuesday as part of an unannounced trip to Iraq. Gates will meet with American military commanders on the ground and Iraqi political leaders including Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

The visit to Iraq will allow Gates to coordinate with military commanders as the U.S. shifts its focus from combat operations to support and training. The Obama administration is holding firm on its commitment to withdraw the bulk of combat troops by 2011-12. Gates will also see what assets can be transferred to Afghanistan where the fight against Taliban supporters and al-Qaeda militants continues.