Iraq Finally Approves US Security Pact
The Iraqi government took the last step toward accepting the security agreement with the United States today. The three-person Presidency Council finally approved the pact, which was ratified by Iraqi Parliament last week. The main condition of the pact mandates the withdrawal of US troops from the country, with the last of them completely out by the end of 2011.
Ironically, the approval came on a relatively violent day in Iraq, compared to recent activity in the state. Currently, some of the most vicious attacks are occurring in the city of Fallujah, notorious for violence earlier in the war between the US and Iraq, and considered the heart of Sunni insurgency efforts. Control of Anbar Province, where Fallujah is located, was handed over to Iraqi security forces three months ago, because the US troops considered the security situation to be adequately improved. In the months to come before the end of 2011, it will be important to take note of how the security situation evolves.
Haley Hackendale
