Recently I mentioned something about Hilary Clinton’s thoughts about the war in Iraq. I would like to continue discussing her thoughts and ideas about the war. It has been five years since the invasion into Iraq by United States troops. Is that too long? Should we simply pull out because some objectives have or have not been met? What kind of message does this send to our troops as well as the rest of the world?
Senator Hilary Clinton made a speech recently at the University of Washington. She said that increasing the number of troops in Iraq over the last year has, “not accomplished its goals.” She continued her speech delivering her plans to end the war in Iraq while at the same time criticizing her opponents and the current president about their positions on the war.
“By the middle of this summer, when the additional surge forces have been sent home, we’ll be right back at square one: 130,000 or more troops on the ground in Iraq.” In saying this, she was trying to point out that the Iraqi military has yet to take over where the United States military currently exists. The plan has always been to train the Iraqi military so that United States forces could vacate after a stable democracy has been developed.
Senator Clinton made some other comments that I would like your opinions on. She sharply criticized Bush and McCain saying that their philosophy is to “stay the course keeping troops in Iraq for up to 100 years if necessary.”
“Withdrawal is not defeat, defeat is keeping troops in Iraq for 100 years,” Clinton said.
What do those of you reading this blog make of Clinton’s accusations? Is there validity to what she is saying? Or is she merely trying to win votes by means of spouting oppositional philosophies to those of her opponents.
In hearing this, I can’t help but keep wondering what the troops in Iraq would say to Hilary Clinton’s words about their efforts. Whether you are currently involved in the military, or an active citizen, we welcome your comments and input here.
