US Hails Approval Of Iraq Accord, But Referendum Looms

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Justin Iverson, assigned to Detachment 3, 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, hands out candy to Iraqi children during a patrol in the Doura district of Baghdad, Iraq, on Nov. 22, 2008. DoD photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Todd Frantom, U.S. Navy. (Released)

From AFP:

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States on Thursday hailed the Iraqi parliament's approval of a landmark accord for US troops to leave the country in three years, but a referendum on the deal next year could complicate withdrawal plans for the next US president.

President George W. Bush said the parliamentary vote was a watershed for Iraq and its relations with the United States.

"Today's vote affirms the growth of Iraq's democracy and increasing ability to secure itself," the US president said in a statement.

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My Comment: I will be shocked if this accord is defeated in a referendum.