For Immediate Release
November 17, 2003

Global Message

From remarks by President Bush and Italian President Ciampi, 11/14/03

Our commanders on the ground in Iraq must be given flexibility to adjust to an enemy that is changing its tactics.

Terrorists in Iraq want to create the condition of fear. They will lose that aspect of the battle because our will remains strong.

Iraqis are providing intelligence and are on the front line of securing their own country.

When we find actionable intelligence, we strike fast to bring killers to justice.

We will stay until the job is done -- which is for Iraq to be free and peaceful. A free and peaceful Iraq will have historic consequences. And we will find Saddam Hussein.

The goal is for a free and peaceful Iraq, and, by being strong and determined, we will achieve that objective.

As more Iraqis realize freedom is precious and freedom is a beautiful way of life, they will assume more responsibilities, not only for security, but for humanitarian reasons, as well.

The Iraqi people deserve to live a life of freedom and to have their children go to schools. The Iraqi people deserve to be free of torture chambers and mass graves. The work we are doing together is humane and compassionate and necessary for peace.

We thank the Italian people for working toward a world that is more humane, decent and peaceful.