Iraqi Freedom

Many Americans understand the nature of the war we are fighting, but many don't. Those who don't are pressuring the Administration to develop a strategy that can succeed in Iraq, and demanding a timetable of our plans for Iraq and withdrawal of our troops. There are those who believe it is not so much a War on Terrorism as a War on Al Qaeda.

But it isn't. We respectfully remind you that S.J.Res.23, which was enacted September 14, 2001 was broader than that, stating, "That the President is authorized to use all necessary and appropriate force against those nations, organizations, or persons he determines planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001, or harbored such organizations or persons, in order to prevent any future acts of international terrorism against the United States by such nations, organizations or persons."

We understand that the War on Terrorism did not end with Afghanistan and will not end with the capture or death of Osama bin Laden, or the withdrawal of Allied troops from Iraq. True victory depends on wiping out the conditions that foster such fanaticism and terrorism bringing democracy to the Middle East.

We furtherunderstand that if we leftIraq in its current condition, the death & destruction would be great and undo thesignificant progress already made in the War on Terrorism.

We further understand that it would also undermine the credibility of theUnited States by pulling out before we accomplished all that we've promised to finish in Iraq. We also acknowledge that we would be abandoning Iraq when they need us most to thwart the plans of the terrorists, insurgents and despots while training them to defend themselves.

We consider that to be too high a price to pay, especially in light of the many sacrifices made by the brave men and women, and their families, of our armed services, some ofwhom have paidthe ultimate sacrifice so that the courageous Iraqi people could experience the type of freedom that Americans take for granted.

We understand that this war, like any war, can't be put on a timetable. Certain conditions need to be met before our troops can withdraw. While we urge you and our people in Iraq to move with all possible speed and efficiency, we also urge you to stay as long as it takes to get the job done right.

We believe that military matters are best left in the hands of military experts, and therefore urge you to continue to heed the advice of the military on the ground and seek the advice of military experts, both inside and outside the Administration, and adjust the strategy accordingly. We urge you not to bow to pressure to commit to a strategy that leaves no room to adjust for changing circumstances.