Senator Ted Kennedy On Iraq Surge Anniversary

January 9, 2008 -- WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on the anniversary of President Bush’s announcement of the surge strategy in Iraq.

“When President Bush announced the surge one year ago, he said a successful strategy for Iraq goes beyond military operations. He said the surge will give the Iraqi government the “breathing space it needs to make progress in other critical areas… and reducing the violence in Baghdad will help make reconciliation possible.”

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A year into the escalation, the violence has declined but political reconciliation hasn’t happened and Iraqi politicians are not being held accountable for the lack of progress or success. The Pentagon itself admits that progress is lacking on these important issues. It’s December 14 report stated, “Iraqi leaders have made only marginal progress on key legislation, constitutional revisions and in resolving other critical issues needed for political reform and reconciliation.”

The best way to protect our troops and our own national security is to put the Iraqis on notice that they need to take responsibility for their future. Unless there’s a binding timeline for withdrawal of our troops, the Iraqis will not feel the need to make the compromises essential for a political solution.”

Source: Senator Ted Kennedy