US forces will leave Iraq only when Iraqi army and security services get able to control and ensure security in the country,Trends special correspondent reports from Astana quoting General John Abizaid, Head of the US Central Command.
В"Iraqi forces today consist of 230 thousand servicemen and policemen that partially control the country. Nevertheless, there is a problem with security around Baghdad. Some terrorist groups counteract here, which is linked to confrontation between Sunni and Shii confessions, said Abizaid, In the long-term outlook, US forces will be reduced and Iraqi increased n number. I would like to note that Iraq needs not only security services development but also more experienced governmentВ", he said.
Answering the question about the war in Lebanon General Abizaid said the situation was very difficult and participation of Syria and Iran made it even worse. But I do not suggest any escalation affecting US forces in Afghanistan or Iraq, he added.
US military official disproved the suggestion of US military assistance to Israel. Further, answering the question if US is ready to fight at three fronts, i.e. Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran, general said the US are not seeking new fronts as we aim at stabilization of situation in the region. The conflict is always possible but US forces objective is first, to ensure security in Iraq and Afghanistan and, second, to provide uninterrupted oil transportation to world markets, and, third, fight against terrorism, wherever this menace arises.