Iraq Panel Calls Conditions “Grave and Deteriorating”

Iraq is in a “dire” state, and immediate diplomacy is essential for preventing the national conflict from expanding into a regional one, spreading chaos throughout the Middle East. The Iraq Study Group released a long-awaited report today with 79 recommendations and few surprises. The report, approved unanimously by the bipartisan committee, recommends a “diplomatic offensive” involving every neighbor to Iraq and other countries that have an interest in ending the chaos. The report also recommends renewed commitment for Arab-Israeli peace. For Iraq, the group suggests setting benchmarks and encouraging the Iraqi government and forces to take control of security. As a result, they suggest, the priority of US troops would shift from combat to training of Iraqis and many US troops could withdraw by early 2008. “No one can guarantee that any course of action in Iraq at this point will stop sectarian warfare, growing violence or a slide toward chaos,” warns the report’s cover letter. “If current trends continue, the potential consequences are severe.” – YaleGlobal