Unnerved by bombings that have killed hundreds this summer, many Iraqis are losing faith in their own security forces and fear the Americans are leaving too quickly.
The misgivings about the U.S. pullback from the cities, and even about the Dec. 31, 2011 deadline for a full withdrawal, come at a time when a senior U.S. officer has suggested the Americans declare victory and leave even sooner.
Iraqis, including military commanders, believe their security forces aren't ready to act alone.
"We do not want a hasty withdrawal. The Americans have promised a responsible withdrawal in coordination with the Iraqi government and they should live up to their commitments," said Abbas al-Bayati, chairman of parliament's security committee.
Some even want our troops back in the cities, fighting.
I certainly don't think we should leave too early, and we need to support the Iraqis who fight in the cities against the remnant resistance and terrorism.
But the Iraqis need to step up despite their worries. They can do it even if they face some rough moments.
We'll be there to help every step of the way--even after 2011. And the Iraqis will be happy to negotiate a new deal that keeps our help and our troops inside Iraq until they are truly ready to stand on their own.
