Bush says Iraq exit would bolster Iran
President Bush emphasized his dedication to maintaining a US presence in Iraq, saying on Wednesday that leaving the country early would not only foster chaos in Iraq, but would also embolden Iran, the LA Times reports.
"There would be nothing worse for world peace, if the Iranians believed that the United States didn't have the will and commitment to help young democracies survive," Bush said.
Excerpts follow:
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The president's remarks reflected his view that, beyond establishing order in Iraq after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein, the U.S. mission is to create fertile ground for democracy throughout the region.
Speaking to an audience assembled by the Lancaster County Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bush also said that he saw no likelihood that direct negotiations with Iran would produce a successful outcome for the United States. And he again warned about the dangers of Iran developing nuclear weapons.
The business group assembled an overwhelmingly friendly audience of about 400 people, who lobbed questions -- none with sharp edges -- toward the president: How will the farm bill help local farmers? Do you have plans to prevent illegal immigration? Are you supporting any of the current presidential candidates? (That one received a brusque: "No.")
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Read the full LA Times article here
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