SecDef: Iraq Withdrawal May Accelerate

As Iraqi security forces make encouraging progress in taking control of their country, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said July 29 that the withdrawal of U.S. forces may happen at a slightly quicker pace than originally anticipated. "I think there is at least a chance of modest acceleration," Gates told reporters during a stop at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, following a surprise visit to the country. Presently, two U.S. brigades are scheduled to return before the January elections in Iraq, with no units lined up to deploy as replacements. With Gates’ announcement, a third brigade may also come home. The additional withdrawal is not set in stone, Gates noted. "It really depends on circumstances" in Iraq, he said.