Sadr to disarm if U.S. withdraws on timetable

[denverbill]

Source: Reuters

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Influential Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr would dissolve his Mehdi Army militia if the United States started withdrawing troops according to a set timetable, a spokesman said.

The comments come at a crucial point in talks between Baghdad and Washington over a new security pact that will provide a legal basis for U.S. troops to operate in Iraq when a United Nations mandate expires at the end of the year.

...

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080808/ts_nm/iraq_dc_3

[high density]

1. But then when we leave, he'll rearm himself!

We can never leave! We must stay and win! If we win, we have won the war! Win win win win win win.

[northernlights]

2. but, but, but...

but if we leave, we'll be surrendering. Without honor. We'll lose if we leave. Like a bunch a losers.

[GoddessOfGuinness]

9. We must crush them.

Death to all infidels.

[Javaman]

3. He will disarm, but will his army?

they barely listen to him now.

[Turbineguy]

4. On the other hand...

he may change his mind.

[Canuckistanian]

5. But then they'll follow the troops home!

But I suppose it's all right if they're disarmed.

[Montypython]

6. al Sadr

I don't think this means much in and of itself. I say wait and see. The downside is that it makes Chimpy look like a "statesman". As if! LOL!

[WhiteTara]

7. kicking for peace

[yellowcanine]

8. This is what we are reduced to, negotiating with thugs. Thanks Bush.

Anyone who thinks Sadr will disarm is smoking happy weed. He may pull the militias off the streets long enough to make sure the U.S. is gone, but as soon as he perceives any opportunities to regain lost ground the guns will reappear. Don't get me wrong, I think we should leave as soon as possible. But let's not kid ourselves. Say hello to "peace with honor." (1973 Paris Peace Accords, for those who are too young to remember)

[hacktivist]

10. It is clear

they want us gone. The majority of American's want out. Why isn't Governor Bush planning the withdrawal?

Arn't we there to help the Iraqis? They don't want our so-called help (its been anything but), so lets just get out!!