For five (almost six) years, we have invaded and given Iraq back to its people. However, our "results" have been small in comparison to what we have put into Iraq these past years. We are at the point where our next move in Iraq is very critical to us and to the welfare of the "new" Iraq. On thing is certain, we must start to see more positive results if we are going to be able to "leave".
Our current situation in Iraq is at a stand still. We cannot withdraw all of our troops but we cannot remain there for much longer. I feel that if we stay in Iraq any longer, we will start to lose the faith other countries had for us going to Iraq in the first place (if we haven't lost it already). Iraq will serve as a constant reminder to many nations for future generations. We may lose allies or support just because of our stay in Iraq which has been longer than any of the World Wars. Then there is the military funding as well. We simply cannot afford to spend money on this war like we have these last few years. Our economy is in shambles. The Rescue Plan is only prolonging the situation long enough for the next President to come into office. Every single cent that our government spends is needed to help our economy. Staying in Iraq only uses valuable funds that our country needs back home.
Now, for those who want to pack up our troops and send them back home, hit the brakes. Our involvement with Iraq is so deep, we CANNOT do that. With all the money we have spent, we simply just cannot walk away. We have to finish what we have started, one way or another. I feel that to leave Iraq will draw more countries to despise us. We went in and completely changed their whole government structure and wiped out their former armed forces. Now in order to leave, we must re-arm them, build up their forces, and stabilize their government. If not, they will be helpless and defenseless against Al-Qaeda or the countries surrounding them, especially Iran. However, our prolonged stay could prove different to Iraq.
Time is a valuable source. But we have wasted too much of it in Iraq. Whether we like it or not, our time in Iraq is coming to an end. But how will our new President be able to use it to our advantage? Only time will tell...
1 comment:
Dear Revan,
Great thought-provoking post! I thought it was extremely interesting that you pointed out the gradual decline of respect that other countries have for us because of the stand-still Iraq war. We definitely need to figure out our plan soon, for withdraw or for a prolonged stay, because the less confidence our country has in our troops and our military advisor's decision the less respect other nations will have for our awesome army.
Keep up the great work!
Thanks, Merritt
PS--It might be cool for you to juxtapose two opposing families that both have a son or daughter in the war...one who is against the war and one who is for the war.
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