Here is the proof:
The Iraqi defense minister said Monday that his nation would not be able to take full responsibility for its internal security until 2012, nor be able on its own to defend Iraq’s borders from external threat until at least 2018.
Those comments from the minister, Abdul Qadir, were among the most specific public projections of a timeline for the American commitment in Iraq by officials in either Washington or Baghdad. And they suggested a longer commitment than either government had previously indicated.
Pentagon officials expressed no surprise at Mr. Qadir’s projections, which were even less optimistic than those he made last year.
As we contemplate the annual costs of permanent war in Iraq for the next dozen or so years, let’s stroll down memory lane and pick out our favorite quotes from early on in the war. I will start:
Paul Wolfowitz, 2003- “The oil revenues of that country could bring between $50 and $100 billion over the course of the next two or three years. Now, there are a lot of claims on that money, but… We are dealing with a country that can really finance its own reconstruction and relatively soon.”
I can’t believe I fell for this shit.
*** Update ***
BTW, it has been noted that the powers that be have labeled the ability for the Iraqi government to provide for their own security is a “medium term” goal. Permanent occupation, folks.