US may step up Iraq pullout

2008-07-13 11:03

Washington - The administration of President George W Bush is considering withdrawal of additional combat forces from Iraq beginning in September, The New York Times reported on its website on Saturday.

Citing unnamed administration and military officials, the newspaper said that one factor in the consideration is the pressing need for additional American troops in Afghanistan, where the Taliban and other fighters have intensified their insurgency.

More American and allied troops died in Afghanistan than in Iraq in May and June, a trend that has continued this month.

Although no decision has been made, one or as many as three of the 15 combat brigades now in Iraq could be withdrawn or at least scheduled for withdrawal, by the time President Bush leaves office on January 20, the report said.

The desire to move more quickly reflects the view of many in the Pentagon who want to ease the strain on the military but also to free more troops for Afghanistan and potentially other missions, The Times pointed out.

Even the most dramatic scenario would still leave 120 000 to 130 000 US troops in Iraq, down from the 170 000 deployed in the country late last year after Bush ordered a military "surge" there.

- AFP