Are we occupying those countries? We maintain a presence, but it's (mostly) one of mutual consent, and I believe it's been some time since we've bombed either of them.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=9tPrL-SsB8U

Steve knows....

WB, you certainly need your AC fixed. Read my post again - "I realize that Iraq is, of course, a different situation....".

Mutual consent? Are you saying that the current government of Iraq doesn't want us there? Because they do. There are plenty of Japanese that don't want our bases there. Same with South Korea. We talked about pulling bases out of Germany and they threw a little hissy fit and so did many of the same Americans that want want us out of Iraq. Yeah, you said "mostly" mutual consent.

I would like to point out that I voted for Forbes in the 2000 AZ primary.

Didn't the Iraqi President (or was it the Prime Minister? I forget) just tell us we can leave now?

I believe they don't want us there. Why would they? To keep them safe?

While I do need to get that damned AC fixed, your "I realize" wasn't enough to cover your comment, much as my "mostly" comment didn't seem to work for you.:p

I also believe that if we were doing to our NATO allies what we are doing to Iraq, they'd probably be interested in seeing us move on.

Me too....I even threw him a few bucks.

I believe I offered an explanation earlier - what is he supposed to say to such a question? My guys suck and we need the US to stay forever, or should he express confidence in those Iraqis willing to place their lives on the line?

Ah yes, the Bush mold of leadership. "Acknowledging reality is tantamount to admitting defeat. Never acknowledge that anything is going wrong. Lie until everyone forgets the question."

If they make the request official and not just a response to a reporter's question then I hope we leave with all appropriate haste.