Etheridge statement on Patraeus testimony


Washington, D.C. -— U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) released the following statement on September 10 regarding General Petraeus’ testimony to Congress about the war in Iraq.

“As a veteran of the U.S. Army myself, I strongly support our troops, our veterans and their families. Our troops have done everything they have been asked to do and done it exceptionally well. I am very proud of our soldiers.

“I have traveled to Iraq twice, and after I returned last year, I said the Administration must change its failed policy and work to restore the readiness of our forces. It is time for a new direction in Iraq.

“Today General Petraeus cited gains made by our troops in Iraq. Now it is time for the Administration to honor the gains that our military has made by pursuing a diplomatic and political solution. We must engage our allies, neighboring countries and the entire international community to seek a lasting diplomatic solution in Iraq, and the Iraqis must begin to provide for the security of their own country.”