The Surge and Congress

Congress is preparing for another debate on Iraq. Many members have the false impression that the new strategy has already failed. Others don't care whether or not the strategy succeeds or fails. They just like the idea of America being defeated. This isn't an accurate reflection of what's really occurring over in Iraq. Michael Yon's latest dispatch says that Al Qaeda is failing and on the run in Iraq.

Before the tape was running, I asked Abu Ali why he and the 1920s turned against al Qaeda in Buhriz. Speaking through LT David Wallach, a native Arabic speaker, Abu Ali said that "al Qaeda is an abomination of Islam: cutting off heads, stealing people’s money, kidnapping . . . every type of torture they have done."

Things are starting to change in Iraq. Not as fast as we would like but change is happening. Why should we desert the Iraqi people when they are finally getting the upper hand on al Qaeda? Sen. John Cornyn said today, the critical element missing in the debate is a serious review of the potential consequences resulting from a retreat by the U.S.

"In advocating a policy of retreat, they are seeking to abandon the central front in the war on terror and allow Iraq to become a safe haven for Al-Qaeda," ..."Those advocating retreat will not, or cannot, answer critical questions on the consequences of a precipitous withdrawal. For example, if we leave Iraq before the Iraqis can defend themselves, will this strengthen or weaken Al-Qaeda and other foreign jihadists in Iraq, and across the region? Will Al-Qaeda and other terrorists then follow us here to the United States? How will we address Iran’s continued support of Iraqi insurgents and terrorists now that we have definitive evidence of their involvement? Will Sunni majority nations outside of Iraq stand by and let Shiites massacre Sunnis in Iraq, or will this turn into a regional war? What is the scope of the humanitarian and refugee crisis that will ensue when the U.S. suddenly withdraws from Iraq? And perhaps the most important question that must be answered by those advocating withdrawal is -- what is your plan for the ‘Way Ahead’ in Iraq and the Region?"

These are really good questions. I sure would like to know how our 2 Senators would answer these questions since they seem intent on the failure of the U.S.

"Our success is not just about providing the people of Iraq a safe environment to develop and provide for their own self-governance – it is about our own protection. We must do what is right for America’s national security, the stability of the Middle East and our partners in the war on terror," Sen. Cornyn concluded.