Obama - Iraq War Policy Elements

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjqw0bf2-IA
During a political debate in California between Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and John McCain, Barack Obama thoroughly explained his position on the war in Iraq and what he feels are the steps necessary to solve the problem. He began his response with a tongue and cheek remark regarding the current situation, “I think it is as important for us to be as careful getting out [of the war in the Middle East] as we were careless getting in to it.” Following this remark Obama went after John McCain saying that it would be foolish for us to vote for someone who is supporting the current situation and someone who had recently made a remark along the lines of us keeping troops in Iraq for at least one-hundred years.

After addressing McCain’s views he moved on to those of Hillary in which he touched on the fact that he and she have similar beliefs, only differing slightly on issues the four structures that we would leave behind. They agree that the Embassy’s should stay, those that have been displaced are given aid, and that there needs to be a “strike force” that will be ready to get rid of the potential terrorist threats. While they do disagree that we not suggest that troops are still in Iraq to get rid of Iranian influence.

He also made sure to point out that it is important for America to set a date regarding when we are to leave Iraq. This is for two reasons, the first is there are many many other threats across the world other than Iraq and second that we need to go forward with determination and that is the only way we will be successful in pulling our troops out safely.

As Obama was wrapping up his response he made it clear that of all the people running for office he was the only one to oppose the war from the start and that his distinct views were reason enough to set him apart from the pack.