U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker says Americans need to look at Iraq with 'strategic patience' because the stakes for the United States in the region are so high, Associated Press reported.
The veteran envoy is in the middle of tough negotiations with Iraqi officials to define the basis for a continuing American military presence in the country.
Crocker says even though conditions have improved in Iraq there is a danger that the achievements could unravel if U.S. involvement flags. The veteran diplomat was interviewed by The Associated Press Sunday at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
He also says Iran wants to see the negotiations fail.
Crocker says "this is not the time when we can afford to lose interest or lose focus."