Transition In Iraq PDF Download

The US and Iraq both face critical decisions in shaping their strategic partnership in the Gulf. Iraq is making major progress in creating effective security forces, but it faces serious problems that will delay is development of effective counterinsurgency and counterterrorism forces, its ability to transition to effective civil police capabilities, and the creation of the kind of conventional forces that can deter and defend against foreign threats. The US cannot alone provide all the help the new Iraqi government requests, but if it does not remain a major source of advice and aid, it will leave Iraq unable to create internal security and stability at the rate needed to minimize the risk of insurgents and extremists recovering, and create forces that can deal with Iraq's ethnic and sectarian tensions. More than that, it will leave a lasting power vacuum in Iraq relative to Iran that will make it far more vulnerable to Iranian influence and pressure, as well as increase the potential threat Iran can pose to the all of the Gulf, our allies like Jordan and Israel, and the security of world energy exports and the US economy.