SmallGovTimes.com

By: SGT News | Published on 07/08/08    

Only a day after Iraq’s Prime Minister hinted at a withdrawal timetable for U.S. troops, Iraq’s national security advisor added force to the idea by suggesting no security deal will be accepted without specific withdrawal dates for United States and coalition military forces.

Mowaffak al-Rubaie’s insistence on a withdrawal timetable is at stark odds with President Bush’s strong opposition to specific retreat dates.

"Our stance in the negotiations underway with the American side will be strong ... We will not accept any memorandum of understanding that doesn't have specific dates to withdraw foreign forces from Iraq," al-Rubaie said.

The United Nations troop mandate expires at the end of the year, necessitating a new agreement to be drafted and signed before that time in order for U.S. and coalition troops to remain in the area.

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