American and British troops face a switch from Iraq to Afghanistan

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Michael Evans, Defence Editor
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/iraq/article4327434.ece

Both the United States and Britain are hoping to reduce their military commitment in Iraq to focus on Afghanistan.

The US is considering cutting American troop numbers to below 120,000, compared with 170,000 last year. Up to three combat brigades could be withdrawn in September.

Britain is also looking to cut troop numbers by almost a half in Iraq, from 4,000 to about 2,500, although not until next year. This would give the Government the option of deploying more units to Helmand province, where the Taleban has intensified its operations, using suicide attacks, roadside bombs and mines.

More American and British troops are now dying in Afghanistan than in Iraq, and with both countries committed to supporting the Kabul Government, the availability of additional troops to fight the Taleban is becoming an increasingly pressing issue.

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1. The Ping Pong Doctrine is in Full Effect

Comparable to the Pendulum Doctrine; evolved from the See Saw Doctrine.