An Offer You Can't Refuse

[Grace]

"There will be no legal basis for us to continue operating there without that,

Bring 'em on home!!

When I saw the title of the article, I figured George was warning them we'd invade them once again.

[Edwina's Secretary]

The United States would never try and influence the internal politics of another country.

[Lady's Human]

Lost in the noise of the story is what this is really about, the negotiations to establish a SOFA with Iraq. The SOFA, or Status of Forces Agreement, establishes the guidelines under which US Forces may operate in a given country, and protects both US Soldiers and the host country. Normal items in a SOFA are where when and how US forces can operate, entry/exit requirements, and also determines when soldiers fall under the laws of the host country or the UCMJ, or both.

The "dire consequences" the US Is warning about is the fact that without the SOFA, US forces will have to withdraw from Iraq.

It's not a threat, it's reality. If they continue to stall, all forces in Iraq, not just US forces, will have to leave.

[Grace]

The "dire consequences" the US Is warning about is the fact that without the SOFA, US forces will have to withdraw from Iraq.

Which is why I said what I did. The sooner the better!!

[lizbud]

The "dire consequences" the US Is warning about is the fact that without the SOFA, US forces will have to withdraw from Iraq.

It's not a threat, it's reality. If they continue to stall, all forces in Iraq, not just US forces, will have to leave.

Not really. US troops will remain with some Iraq soldiers as trainers/advisors
until 2011. The troops will cease to have an active military role in the
fighting. Troops can also mantain bases outside some cities in a backup role.

[Lady's Human]

Liz, that's WITH a SOFA.

Without a SOFA, the troops have no legal basis for being there, and have to be withdrawn completely.

[lizbud]

Liz, that's WITH a SOFA.

Without a SOFA, the troops have no legal basis for being there, and have to be withdrawn completely.

Well, maybe we should take the hint & leave.

[Lady's Human]

"Take the hint and leave" is over simplifying the issue.

The Iraqis want US troops to stay in Iraq for the time being, the issue has been with the details of the SOFA.