The Failing Surge

Despite the slight drop in American deaths in Iraq during July, the month remains the worst July since the invasion. August is off to a bad start already with American deaths averaging nearly 3 per day. We see reports in the news of shortages of drinking water at a time when temperatures are at a peak. Electricity production remains far below pre-invasion levels. And now the Kurds in northern Iraq are planning their own oil control in apparent frustration over the failure of the central government to make any progress toward a better resolution.

In spite of all the evidence to the contrary Bush and his administration continue to claim success for the surge in Iraq. What price success? How many more Americans must die before our country recognizes the failure and begins withdrawal? What is an American presence offering to the benefit of the Iraqi people? We must leave Iraq as soon as possible lest the cost to America be one too great to pay.