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Hobson: Time to plan U.S. transition in Iraq
Springfield congressman cites al-Maliki's statement that U.S. could redeploy up to 50,000 in 3 to 6 months.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
WASHINGTON — — Just back from Iraq, U.S. Rep. Dave Hobson, R-Springfield, said Tuesday that the Iraqi prime minister should be held to his claim that Iraqi troops could begin to relieve U.S. combat troops within six months.
The lone Republican on a visit led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., Hobson said the delegation met with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki in Baghdad.
Extras
"He said that if his country had the command and control equipment and our backing, that they could begin to take over their own security, and we could begin to redeploy up to 50,000 of our troops in three to six months," Hobson said at a press conference.
"It's imperative that our U.S. troops begin to transition from a combat role to one focused on training, counter-terrorism, force protection, and controlling Iraq's borders."
He said the time has come to hold al-Maliki to this promise and redeploy U.S. troops on that timetable.
"The United States has done its part and is continuing to do its part to bring stability to this region," Hobson said. "Now it's time for other countries in the region, the Iraqi people and NATO countries to step up and fulfill their responsibilities."
Hobson said the trip convinced him that the United States is lagging in its diplomatic outreach in the region and that Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Syria and Iran need to be engaged in efforts to stabilize Iraq.
