Mullen cites limited progress in Iraq (AP)

[Eugene]

Source: Associated Press

Mullen cites limited progress in Iraq
By Associated Press
Tuesday, July 31, 2007 - Updated: 01:29 PM EST

WASHINGTON - President Bush’s choice to head the military
Joint Chiefs of Staff said Tuesday an increase of troops in
Iraq is giving commanders the forces needed to improve
security there.

"Security is better, not great, but better," said Navy Adm.
Michael Mullen, speaking before the Senate Armed Services
committee at his nomination hearing.

However, Mullen acknowledged under questioning that,
"there does not appear to be much political progress"
in Iraq.

"I believe security is critical to providing the government
of Iraq the breathing space it needs to work toward political
national reconciliation and economic growth, which are
themselves critical to a stable Iraq," Mullen said. "Barring
that, no amount of troops and no amount of time will make
much of a difference."

-snip-

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