"A failed Iraq would make America less secure," Bush declared. The end of democracy in Iraq, he said, would provide a haven for terrorists and extremists in the heart of the Middle East.

Bush acknowledged that some Americans are saying it's time for U.S. forces to leave Iraq. However, a premature troop withdrawal before the job is completed would prove disastrous, he said.

"It would be a huge mistake for this country," Bush said. And, things would only get worse in Iraq, he added, if U.S. troops depart before the Iraqi government, its armed forces and police are firmly established.

Bush said Iraqi government leaders are "determined to thwart the efforts of the extremists and the radicals and al Qaeda."

Additionally, "Iraqis want a unified country," Bush pointed out, downplaying talk of civil war precipitated by sectarian strife.

The U.S. strategy includes assisting the Iraqis to establish democracy, Bush said, and to help them defeat extremists in their country.

"We're not going to leave before the mission is complete," the president said.

U.S. commanders have changed tactics, Bush said, since sectarian violence erupted across Iraq after the bombing of a holy mosque in Samarra on Feb. 22, noting more U.S. forces have flowed into Baghdad to confront the escalating violence there.

Bush predicted the Iraqis would succeed in establishing a free society and defeating the extremists.

"And, our job is to help them succeed," Bush concluded.

Related Links
President Bush's Aug. 21, 2006, News Conference
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