“Real Consequences” in Near Future for Iraq?
In the ongoing saga of the renewal of a security pact between Iraq and the United States, advancements were made today as strong words were exchanged. US government officials warned Iraq of “real consequences” in the event that Iraq turns down the recently revamped deal. The legal basis for the US to maintain a military presence in Iraq expires on December 31st, and if Iraqi officials fail to make a deal with the Bush administration, the US may be forced to end its operations in Iraq sooner than anticipated.
In pushing for an extension to remain in the country, US officials declare that Iraq is not yet ready to defend itself and keep the peace. Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki, however, insists that unspecified revisions must be made before Iraq will sign the pact. If the Iraqi government does not sign in time, the US may be force to resort to a UN Security Council mandate to legitimize their military presence.
Haley Hackendale
