Semantics? No. Learning.
The Tank has another great post about giving Gen. Petraeus’ new strategy some time to work.
But I continue to disagree with calling the surge a success. It is the counterinsurgency strategy implemented by Gen. Petraeus that is working. The only thing the administration had to do with this was finally appoint someone with the proper experience, knowledge, credentials and insight to oversee the war in Iraq. It was about time.
I know it may seem that I’m just arguing semantics, but I think it’s important that credit be given where credit is due — and that we recognize what is working for future reference.
20. June, 2007 at 07:49
[…] First, well, duh, of course Iraq won’t be stabilized only two-and-a-half months into the new counterinsurgency strategy (nickname: “the surge”). I’d also like to note that Gen. Petraeus subtly pointed out in a press conference last week that he understands the lack of troops (stretched too thin) to maintain the current force levels in Iraq and the unwillingness of Congress to continue to support — or even increase — the current number of troops deployed. Indeed, as a moderate who leans Democratic, I find it hypocritical that the donkeys are refusing to respond to ground commanders’ requests for men and materiel just as they criticized President Bush of doing during the 2004 elections. […]