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Pentagon May Prevent Petraeus From Testifying

Posted Sep 4, 08 12:38 PM CDT in US,  Politics 

(Newser) – When David Petraeus next comes to Washington, he won’t be speaking on Capitol Hill, the Christian Science Monitor reports. Pentagon officials have denied requests for more hearings with the Iraq commander because they’re not sure they’ll agree with his recommendations. Petraeus has been criticized for being too cautious about Iraq withdrawals, while Afghanistan needs more troops.

Petraeus’ position may change when he takes over US Central Command next month and is responsible for both conflicts. “Where you stand depends on where you sit,” says one vocal Petraeus detractor. But even if the commander does recommend big withdrawals, the Pentagon is anxious to avoid another round of political theater. “The Hill respects him,” says one retired officer, but “they also expect to use him.”

Source Christian Science Monitor

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In this April 8, 2008 file photo, Gen. David Petraeus testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington.   (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)
In this April 9, 2008, file photo, Gen. David Petraeus, left, talks with Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker on Capitol Hill in Washington.   (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
Gen. David Petraeus arrives on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, May 22, 2008, for his Senate Armed Services confirmation hearing to become commander of the U.S. Central Command.   (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
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Afghanistan • US military • Pentagon • David Petraeus • troop withdrawal • Iraq exit strategy • Defense Department • US Central Command


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