Iraq insurgents 'effective, adaptable,' Rumsfeld

[leftchick]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20050720/pl_afp/usiraqsecurity_050720210329

WASHINGTON (AFP) - A Pentagon assessment has concluded that Iraqi insurgents remain "effective, adaptable and intent on carrying out attacks" on Iraqi officials and civilians, US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld said.

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Previewing its findings, Rumsfeld told reporters the report will say attacks on infrastructure have declined since the January 30 elections in Iraq, and week-to-week incidents are off from their pre-election peak.

He said elections to ratify a new constitution and for a new national assembly remain on schedule, and recent polls show rising confidence in the future among Iraqis.

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"Countries such as Syria and Iran remain notably unhelpful in assisting Iraq, securing its borders from foreign invaders, and unemployment remains a concern though increasing business investment should alleviate that problem," he said.