Posted by
Robert Morris on Wednesday, November 15, 2006 2:58:41 PM
We all know the two conflicting arguments about our presence in Iraq.
1) Iraq has to take care of itself. We can't stay forever. We need a timetable, so the Iraqis get this message.
2) A time table would give the terrorists a goal date that they need to hold on until, and they will be certain of their eventual victory.
What's troubling, is both arguments have merit.
I propose the proper answer may lie in a one to one approach. Basically, for every Iraqi troop fully trained and ready to maintain freedom in his country, one American soldier comes home.
This sends a message to Iraq that they are accountable to take care of themselves, but we will help them get to the point where they can succeed.
This also sends the message to the terrorists that they cannot wait for a certain time where they can succeed.
The ratio of Iraqi soldiers trained to American soldiers returning need not be exactly one to one, but with this approach, progress is measurable and definite.
I have never heard someone propose this. Doesn't it sound reasonable?