Iraqi Forces Outgrow U.S. Presence

Buy an ad on DigitalJournal.com

From the time of the initial invasion January 17, 1991, up till today, the nation of Iraq has faced a downhill journey. The tumultuous path has faced political, financial, and physical resistance, yet today we mark progress towards a better Iraq.

As of May 30, 2007; Iraqi Forces have swollen to a size of 350,000, showing the undeniable patriotism of Iraqi citizens as they work to re-establish their own identity. This number has grown from only 96,000 in 2004, and continues to grow every day.

The security of the first province taken under control by Iraqi Forces was Al Muthanna Province on July 14, 2006. Iraqi Forces are now responsible for seven of the 18 provinces, and more are close to meeting the requirements for transfer.

Additionally, more and more military operations in Iraq are being led by Iraqi Forces. Iraqi Forces have held leadership of more than half of all operations since June of 2007.

Iraqi Forces may take control once four criteria are met.

Threat Level: U.S. and Iraqi commands examine the threats to the security of a province. If Iraqi Provincial authorities can ensure security and domestic order through the normal use of local police, the province is ready for transfer.

Iraqi Security Forces: The Iraqi Security Forces in the province are studied to determine if their training, equipment and capability are capable of protecting Iraqi citizens.

Governance: The governor must be capable of overseeing security operations. A Joint Operations Room must be capable of coordinating activities. An Iraqi Ministry of Defense and Iraqi Ministry of the Interior intelligence structure must support the Iraqi Police.

Multi National Force - Iraq: MNF-I must be capable of reinforcing Iraqi Security Forces if necessary. Coalition Forces will continue to help coordinate civil reconstruction projects. MNF-I will conduct activities in conjunction with the policies of the Iraqi Ministry of Interior and Iraqi Ministry of Defense