George Casey
George Casey
large lead level means numbers totally
Level 1 is being totally independent, and we know they're not going to be there in large numbers for a while. But they're already getting to level 2, which means they can get into and lead the fight.
armed base capability forces fully iraqi recognize support
We fully recognize that Iraqi armed forces will not have an independent capability for some time, because they don't have the institutional base to support them,
three
What's important is ... is that the one and three are irrelevant,
expect insurgency lots tough work
There is still lots of tough work to do and we should expect the insurgency not to just go away because there were elections.
believe deal fighting fights-and-fighting insurgency iraq less reason time
Fighting insurgencies is a long-term proposition, and there's no reason that we should believe that the insurgency in Iraq will take any less time to deal with.
concerned next
Next year, at this time, I'll be much more concerned about it. Right now, I'm not,
freedom march power ready stop troops
do everything in their power to try to stop the march of freedom. And our troops are ready for it.
coalition critical element forces reduction
Conditions-based reduction of coalition forces is a critical element of our strategy,
critical days next
The next 75 days are going to be critical for what happens,
concerned readiness small unit
No, it's not a setback. I mean, unit readiness is going to fluctuate. And it is such a small number. And at this stage, I'm not concerned about small numbers,
coalition exists forces
the possibility for condition-based reductions of coalition forces still exists for 2006.
checked ice layer means nice solid
When I checked in the morning, the ice was nice and clear, not milky. That usually means that the ice layer was solid enough to do the job.
aspects constitution december elections referendum
The referendum on the constitution and the elections at the end of December are the most important aspects of what we're doing now.
abuse detainees past physical received reports security serious several
Over the past several months, I have received reports of serious physical abuse of detainees by ISF (Iraqi Security Forces).