So, what Petraeus basically said is that we'll be back to square one by next summer, right ?

Question

force reduction of 30,000 = same force level before the so called surge

what don't you people get about we'll be back to the same troop levels in Iraq that we had BEFORE the surge...by next summer, IF we're lucky...i'd call that square one

Answer 1

They were hoping you wouldn't notice that

Answer 2

If by square one, you're referring only to the level of troops, then yes -- but you need to take into account that the reason we'll back to that number is that the Iraqi army is becoming more capable of providing its own security, which it definitely was not before the surge.

A great deal of progress has been made in Iraq in the last ten weeks, and General Petraeus expects the progress to continue, so in that sense, no, he did not say that pre surge levels of violence will return with the pre surge number of troops.

Answer 3

If you're incapable of complex thought processes, then your best bet is to think of it in those terms. Otherwise, you might consider that the troop levels are a secondary consideration, and what has really happened the past few months is not just a surge but a change in operational and tactical stance that Petraeus brought with him. Previously, the coalition were basically using the same blockhouse-and-rail tactics the British used against the Boers, only slightly updated. Petraeus changed to a more modern method of operation.

Answer 4

You should pick up a paper and read. I watched both Petraeus and Crocker testify before Congress, and that is not what they said.

Answer 5

GENERAL Petraeus DID NOT say that!! The answer to the question is N O!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 6

Um, someone wasnt paying attention.