UK to cut Iraq force ‘by thousands’
British defence minister accuses Iran of inciting violence in Iraq.
|
“I can tell you that by the end of next year, I expect numbers of British forces in Iraq to be significantly lower…” Des Browne, UK defence minister |
“In the end of course, it must depend on conditions on the ground, including the level of threat and the capacities of Iraqis to deal with it, and the final decision will be down to our commanders,” he said.
Dividing Iraq “no solution”
Browne also said: “Dividing Iraq into Sunni, Shia and Kurdish areas might appear seductive but it would not solve sectarian tensions.
“A divided Iraq would also threaten regional stability. Even without that division, Iraq is vulnerable to becoming a crucible for wider regional tensions.
|
“Dividing Iraq into Sunni, Shia and Kurdish areas might appear seductive but it would not solve sectarian tensions” Des Browne, UK defence minister |
“It is vital now that Iraq’s neighbours give it full support and undivided support.
“Even Syria, whose motives the international community has often had cause to question, has shown signs of constructive engagement.”
Margaret Beckett, the British foreign secretary, said last week that Britain may be able to hand over security responsibility in Basra by the spring.