It's time to leave Iraq: defence chief (Australia)

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Source: The Australian

DEFENCE force chief Angus Houston says it is time for Australian soldiers in Iraq to return, having done their job.

Air Chief Marshal Houston told a Senate Estimates Committee in Canberra this morning that the Australian Defence Force completed its task in southern Iraq.

He said Iraqi security forces were comfortably shouldering the load in the provinces of Al-Muthanna and Dhi Qar.

"They have had a number of security challenges over the months and they have come out on top without any support from us," he said. "When you look at the two provinces, it is time to leave.’’

Two surveillance aircraft, a warship and a detachment of around 100 soldiers providing diplomatic security in Baghdad would remain, Air Chief Marshal Houston said.


Read more: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23245915-601,00.html