Families of the Fallen for Change

Families of the Fallen for Change

A Non-Partisan Organization Representing the Great American Middle
SOURCE:

A growing number of Americans now oppose the way the war in Iraq is being managed. But, the only choices offered are the Administration’s open-ended "staying the course" or an "immediate pullout." For many, this means no choice, so they stay silent.
http://www.fofchange.org/parameters_of_the_debate.htm

We consider the immediate withdrawal of troops irresponsible. Leaving before Iraq is stabilized could have negative consequences for stability throughout the Middle East. However, we believe the US cannot continue a war policy that has not permitted securing and stabilizing Iraqi towns swept of insurgents. This policy has been followed for nearly three years at a high cost of American lives.

Families of the Fallen for Change calls for a bi-partisan plan that incorporates clear benchmarks for drawing down American troops in Iraq as soon as is reasonably possible. These benchmarks should meet criteria set by the United States and Iraqi leaders. Any plan should ensure Iraq the stability needed for reconstruction as well as political and economic development. Such a plan can only come from serious debate on all options for ending the war.

Membership in Families of the Fallen for Change lets you voice opposition to the war in a responsible way. Members include families of American military personnel killed in Iraq since the war began on March 19, 2003. Friends of the fallen, supporters of the fallen, and other military families are associate members.

We need a strong collective voice in this effort, so your participation is needed. There is no obligation, just your moral support and registration. However, there is always opportunity if you wish to actively participate. Registration forms are included or you can sign up at www.fofchange.org.
http://www.fofchange.org/

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Parameters of the Debate

The November 18th vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on a Republican-sponsored resolution for an immediate withdrawal from Iraq was a political gambit and not the foundation of a serious debate. Families of the Fallen for Change calls for an end to the posturing and the start of real debate over questions that our involvement in Iraq raise for the near and long-term stability of the Middle East. This debate should be conducted by appropriate committees in the U.S. House and Senate and in public forums.

As well, the public deserves a debate that focuses on alternatives to the current either/or debate of staying the course or unilateral and complete withdrawal. One alternative is "Strategic Redeployment" voiced by Lawrence Korb and Brian Katulis, in a report for the Center for American Progress on September 29, 2005. Their report is listed on our home page.

Questions that should be considered are these:

1. Should the U.S. set a deadline for withdrawal of troops?

2. What would a deadline mean for security of U.S. troops in Iraq?

3. Would U.S. troops become ineffective if a deadline is set?

4. Is Iraq stable now?

5. Would Iraqi security forces be able to fight the insurgency on their own if they had to after a U.S. withdrawal?

6. Would Iraq have a civil war if the U.S. withdraws?

7. What are the implications for Middle East stability if Iraq has a civil war?

8. If Iraq has a civil war, what are the implications for Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Saudi Arabia?

9. Should other international parties be involved in guaranteeing stability for the new Iraqi government?

10. If so, who might those parties be?

11. What else can the United States do to effect a stable, secure Iraq?

You can contribute to a serious discussion of these questions by sending us your comments. As well, please tell us if there are other issues to be considered. Click here to send your comments.
info@fofchange.org

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