What a great deal! Why didn't we think of this earlier?

[erik_kosberg]

"Iraq's government, seeking protection against foreign threats and internal coups, will offer the U.S. a long-term troop presence in Iraq in return for U.S. security guarantees as part of a strategic partnership, two Iraqi officials said Monday."

In related news, Brooklyn Bridge offered for sale.

[erik_kosberg]

That was quick.

So it begins. After years of obfuscation and denial on the length of the U.S.'s stay in Iraq, the White House and the Maliki government have released a joint declaration of "principles" for "friendship and cooperation." Apparently President Bush and Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki signed the declaration during a morning teleconference.

Naturally, the declaration is euphemistic, and doesn't refer explicitly to any U.S. military presence.

'Conspiracy' Theory No More

[erik_kosberg]

Spencer Ackerman said

Make no mistake: this is Nouri al-Maliki offering the U.S. a permanent presence in return for guaranteeing the security of his government.

What do you all think, are Bush and al-Maliki really so deluded that they think a treaty like this could get through the U.S. Senate?

[rmthunter]

Well, considering that the Senate has 49 Republicans and Joe Lieberman, it's probably a good bet.

I really wish I felt that we could count on Reid's leadership on this. I really wish I felt that we could count on Reid's leadership on anything.

[erik_kosberg]

We don't need no steenkin' Senate approval.