Military Strategy Forum: Ambassador Ryan Crocker

The Military Strategy Forum
Sponsored by Rolls-Royce North America

Remarks by:
Ambassador Ryan Crocker
Dean, George Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University and Former US Ambassador to Iraq

"Iraq's Future: Stability, Security, and U.S. Policy"

Moderated by Nate Freier, CSIS

Panel discussion
moderated by Stephanie Sanok, CSIS

Panelists:
Anthony Cordesman
Arleigh A. Burke Chair in Strategy, CSIS

Nazar Janabi
 Independent Consultant and Former Director General, Iraqi Ministry of Defense

Michael Casey
Professional Staff Member, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Armed Services

Daniel Silverberg
Deputy General Counsel, U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs

During the President's September 1st announcement heralding the end of combat operations, he highlighted the importance of an enduring strategic partnership between the U.S. and Iraq. However, given Iraq's continuing challenges in government formation after the parliamentary elections earlier this year, there has been no meaningful discussion between the two governments on the character or scale of the U.S. military’s role in any future partnership. Further, as Iraq is a fledgling democracy often plagued by political intransigence and sharp ethno-religious divisions, U.S. authorities cannot dismiss the possibility of having to assist Iraqis prevent, limit, or halt future civil conflict, perhaps even after the negotiated December 2011 deadline for a complete U.S. military withdrawal.  To offset the risks associated with these key uncertainties, ultimately, Pentagon policymakers and planners must account for a spectrum of possible responsibilities in Iraq -- some routine, others much more challenging and sensitive.  This event intends to explore Iraq’s future stability and security and the various roles of U.S. military forces in support of a strategic bilateral partnership going forward.

The Military Strategy Forum, a series developed by CSIS and sponsored by Rolls-Royce North America, welcomes senior defense leaders to present their vision and insights on the direction of U.S. defense policy and military strategy. This series attracts an audience of select Washington-area senior officials and officers, corporate executives, defense journalists, the media, and expert analysts.