I wish politicians could bring themselves to avoid political correctness, but the general gist of last night’s speech was one I agree with:
The situation in Iraq is still tense and we’re still seeing acts of sectarian violence and reprisal. Yet out of this crisis we’ve also seen signs of a hopeful future.
One reason the speech was notable is that Bush didn’t mention cleric Moqtada Al-Sadr, who, depending whether you are a journalist, coalition force member, or intellectual Iraqi is seen as a savior, thorn, or devil (< --- follow the devil link, important read hidden within.)
Iraq’s leaders know that this is not the last time they will be called to stand together in the face of an outrageous terrorist attack. Iraq’s leaders know they must put aside their differences, reach out across political, religious and sectarian lines and form a unity government that will earn the trust and the confidence of all Iraqis.
Iraq is going to take at least 5 years to settle down and 20 years before prosperity has erased some of the scars. Maybe more. Everyone involved in trying to build an Iraq worth having should be mentally prepared for this. Everyone who wants to set a timetable should contact the insurgents and get something in writing from them. I’m sure they’ll honor any withdrawal agreement they sign.Read the whole speech. It’s your responsibility as an informed citizen. You owe it to yourself to learn to read between the lines.