The White House
President George W. Bush
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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 6, 2007

Fact Sheet: Pursuing a Strategy for Success in Iraq

      President Bush Discusses Care for America's Returning Wounded Warriors, War on Terror at American Legion
      In Focus: Renewal in Iraq

Today, President Bush Discussed The War On Terror In Remarks To The American Legion's Annual Convention In Washington, DC.  The President discussed his strategy to achieve the goal of a democratic Iraq that upholds the rule of law, respects the rights of its people, provides security, and is an ally in the War on Terror. 

The President Also Announced Former Senator Bob Dole And Former U.S. Department Of Health And Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala Will Serve As Co-Chairs Of The President's Commission On Care For America's Returning Wounded Warriors.  This Commission will conduct a comprehensive review of the care America is providing our wounded servicemen and women returning from the battlefield.  It will examine their treatment from the time they leave the battlefield through their return to civilian life as veterans – so we can ensure we are meeting their physical and mental health needs. 

The New Way Forward In Iraq

The New Strategy In Iraq Is Markedly Different From Previous Efforts.  The strategy Multi-National Force in Iraq Commander General David Petraeus is pursuing makes securing Baghdad our top priority, gives our troops the reinforcements they need, and demands more from Iraq's elected government.  Tactics of the strategy include:

The Iraqi Government And Coalition Forces Have Made Initial Progress, And More Is To Come

The Plan General Petraeus Is Executing Is In Its Very Early Stages, But There Are Some Encouraging Signs.  General Petraeus arrived in Baghdad in early February, and it is far too early to judge the success of his operation.  However, Iraqi and U.S. forces are making gradual but important progress:

Iraqis Are Beginning To Deliver On Benchmarks To Achieve Political Reconciliation.  

To Succeed, Iraq's Leaders Need The International Community's Help.  The United States supports the Iraqi government as it pursues an international initiative to build diplomatic, economic, and security support for its young democracy.  Last week, the Iraqis announced that they will hold a conference in Baghdad that will include officials from Iraq's neighboring countries, as well as the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, the Arab League, and the Organization of the Islamic Conference.  It will be followed in April by a second conference that includes Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and her counterparts from around the world. 

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