Pentagon Update

By Wendy Wang
Army Lt. Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli briefed live from Iraq via satellite feed, on ongoing security operations in Iraq.

Chiarelli calls the formation of the new Iraqi government a historically decisive moment, and sees the concentration of the central government turning to policy issues that will address the general needs of the Iraqi people. This, Chiarelli believes, will bring about a more stabile environment. He stresses the need for economic stability, and provide the younger male population with means to be gainful employed rather than turning to violence.

He gave an optimistic assessment on the capability of the Iraqi Army and police, saying that the US is turning over more and more security operations to the Iraqi forces. However that did not reconcile with recent reports of increased US military casualties. Chiarelli attributed increase violence to insurgent efforts to usurp the newly formed government. "We’ve seen this pattern before," he said.

Asked about potential draw-down given his assessment of increase Iraqi security force capability, Chiarelli stated that Coalition forces still needs to be aware of enemy activities and be able to act accordingly.

On Congressman, John Murtha’s recent reports of a US Marine incident involving Iraqi civilians, Chiarelli would not comment on the allegations of lies and cover-up as he is part of the investigation board. He says that he will not comment on an on-going investigation.