Operation Iraqi Freedom: Strategies, Approaches, Results, and Issues for Congress
Abstract
Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) was launched on March 20,2003, with the immediate stated goal of removing Saddam Hussein's regime and destroying its ability to use weapons of mass destruction or to make them available to terrorists. Over time, the focus of OIF shifted from regime removal to the more open-ended mission of helping the Government of Iraq (GoI) improve security, establish a system of governance, and foster economic development. Gradually, an insurgency gained strength in Iraq and violence escalated. In January 2007, the Bush Administration announced a new strategy, the "new way forward," which included both a troop surge and new counter-insurgency approaches that emphasized population security and reconciliation. The last surge brigade redeployed from Iraq without replacement in July 2008. Most observers agree that security conditions in Iraq have improved markedly since mid-2007. On September 9, President Bush, calling the decision a "return on success," announced that about 8,000 additional U.S. troops would redeploy from Iraq without replacement by February 2009. The next major development in the campaign is likely to be implementation of two new U.S.-Iraqi strategic agreements, finalized in late 2008. The documents include a strategic framework agreement, which outlines principles for bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, and a Status of Forces-like document that defines the legal basis for the presence of U.S. forces in Iraq and imposes a number of constraints on U.S. military operations there. Together, the documents suggest a shift toward greater exercise of Iraqi sovereignty.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 15, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA493130
Entities
People
- Catherine Dale
Organizations
- Library of Congress