Despite several media reports suggesting it is a done deal, US officials deny that any decision has been made about removing its combat forces from Iraq at the end of 2011. They also say talks are ongoing, and Pentagon officials express confidence in reaching a deal.
“We still have time to go,” said Pentagon spokesman George Little. Despite this there is no indication that any progress is being made over what is really the only major issue in the deployment going forward.
That of course is the question of immunity, as the Iraqi government has not only agreed in principle to the idea of US troops staying, but has even formally requested 5,000 US troops to remain as trainers.
But the Iraqi government insists these troops would be confined to training missions on military bases, and therefore wouldn’t need the blanket immunity they now enjoy. Though US officials are ok with the idea of calling them “trainers,” they have insisted the troops must retain immunity.
Immunity? Who the hell would agree to immunity for foreign soldiers on their soil?
What gall US leaders have to insist on this.
What the hell?!! There was an "agreement" from long ago about finally leaving but now at the eleventh hour there isn't? Is Sadr going to say, "Make my day" to the rat bastards in DC? It's mind boggling.
Last I knew, Parliament has not OK'ed the troops staying as trainers. One US news article stated that members of a Military Unit from Texas were scheduled to come home early because they would not be the last unit to leave as earlier planned. If the Iraqis hold firm, they will really test the Militarys hope to stay as a face saving gesture. The Iraqi's need to start asking why the US Embassy needs to keep almost 20,000 employees at the huge embassy.