But as a result of the surge – which was completed just several weeks ago – American forces are now truly on offense against al Qaeda in Iraq for the first time, and we are turning the tables on the enemy. American military commanders are already witnessing some significant gains since the surge was completed and General Petraeus launched “Operation Phantom Thunder,” the new, multi-faceted offensive against al-Qaeda terrorists, insurgents, and illegal sectarian militias. Since this new offensive began, attacks, casualties and IEDs detonations have all decreased, while more than 175 high-value terrorists, insurgents, and militia fighters have either been killed or arrested since June 15. This is a key step toward success in Iraq and bringing our troops home.
An editorial in Investor’s Business Daily asks the question, “Petraeus is talking; is anyone listening?” The editorial notes some recent comments Gen. Petraeus has made regarding the surge:
“We have achieved what we believe is a reasonable degree of tactical momentum on the ground, gains against the principle near-term threat, al Qaeda Iraq.”
“(We have seen) the detention, or the capture or killing of (a) number of leaders that we have taken out in recent months … and the progress in terms of just clearing areas of them. … So there has been considerable progress against them.”
Retreat is not an option. al Qaeda remains our principle enemy in Iraq, and our military continues to evolve to meet this threat. There is no question that we’re making progress in securing Iraq, and we’re making progress taking in going on offense against al Qaeda. And every measure of progress we make in Iraq makes us safer here at home.