At last, a president who makes sense

This is so long in the coming. President Obama’s speech on responsibly ending the war in Iraq hit a raw nerve. Of course, actions speak louder than words and it remains to be seen in the coming months and years how it will all unfold. But the unambiguous and direct way which President Obama has outlined his intentions in the Middle East has again won my respect. Firstly, he emphasized handling Iraq over to its own people.

We have acted with careful consideration of events on the ground; with respect for the security agreements between the United States and Iraq; and with a critical recognition that the long-term solution in Iraq must be political – not military. Because the most important decisions that have to be made about Iraq’s future must now be made by Iraqis.

So to the Iraqi people, let me be clear about America’s intentions. The United States pursues no claim on your territory or your resources. We respect your sovereignty and the tremendous sacrifices you have made for your country. We seek a full transition to Iraqi responsibility for the security of your country. And going forward, we can build a lasting relationship founded upon mutual interests and mutual respect as Iraq takes its rightful place in the community of nations.

I don’t think Bush has ever said this as clearly as President Obama. Under Bush and his neocons, I don’t think Iraq sovereignty is even under their consideration. Their objectives are first and foremost exert control and influence over Iraq so they can exert control over the Middle-East in case it turns anti-American. Iraq sovereignty is secondary to American grand strategy.

The starting point for our policies must always be the safety of the American people. I know that you – the men and women of the finest fighting force in the history of the world – can meet any challenge, and defeat any foe. And as long as I am your Commander-in-Chief, I promise you that I will only send you into harm’s way when it is absolutely necessary, and provide you with the equipment and support you need to get the job done. That is the most important lesson of all – for the consequences of war are dire, the sacrifices immeasurable.

This is a repudiation of the neocon ideology of making maximum use of military power to exert influence rather than a tool of the very last resort.

We also know that service does not end with the person wearing the uniform. In her visits with military families across the country, my wife Michelle has learned firsthand about the unique burden that your families endure every day. I want you to know this: military families are a top priority for Michelle and me, and they will be a top priority for my administration. We’ll raise military pay, and continue providing quality child-care, job-training for spouses, and expanded counseling and outreach to families that have known the separation and stress of war. We will also heed the lesson of history – that those who fight in battle can form the backbone of our middle class – by implementing a 21st century GI Bill to help our veterans live their dreams.

His gratitude and promise to the men and women in uniform, that they’ll not be used and then forgotten.

There are many lessons to be learned from what we’ve experienced. We have learned that America must go to war with clearly defined goals, which is why I’ve ordered a review of our policy in Afghanistan. We have learned that we must always weigh the costs of action, and communicate those costs candidly to the American people, which is why I’ve put Iraq and Afghanistan into my budget. We have learned that in the 21st century, we must use all elements of American power to achieve our objectives, which is why I am committed to building our civilian national security capacity so that the burden is not continually pushed on to our military. We have learned that our political leaders must pursue the broad and bipartisan support that our national security policies depend upon, which is why I will consult with Congress and in carrying out my plans. And we have learned the importance of working closely with friends and allies, which is why we are launching a new era of engagement in the world.

His eloquent summary of the lessons to be learnt from the war in Iraq. Well said ! Of course, President Obama’s intentions may sound candid and lofty but there are neocon elements in the government and the Republicans and maybe even the Democrats themselves who can derail his plans. The real enemies are in Washington and I really hope that President Obama can overcome the obstacles thrown in his way. But so far, finally a president who actually makes sense !