General Petraeus explains the surge's success
October 8, 2008| By David Talbot
While American forces have made substantial progress in Iraq, Gen. David Petreaus said today at The Heritage Foundation, the progress is still fragile and reversible.
Nevertheless, the situation is much less fragile than before, explained Petraeus, the architect of the successful surge strategy in Iraq. In June 2007, before the surge, there were 180 insurgent attacks per day in Iraq. Today, there are fewer than 25 daily attacks.
Petraeus explained the military's comprehensive strategy for building widespread security and order in Iraq. For example, Iraqis are investing money in their infrastructure and contracting with major U.S. businesses to stimulate economic growth. In addition, efforts to instill political unity through reconciliation have started to pay off.
After receiving extended welcome applause, the future commander of the U.S. Central Command insisted he accept the recognition on behalf the Iraq veterans he called "the new Greatest Generation."
Heritage Foundaton members and members of press packed Allison Auditorium for the general's briefing. Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld was in attendance.
Find out more about the ongoing conflict in Iraq at Heritage's Progress in Iraq page.