Next U.S. Steps in Iraq Focused on North - Defense News: "U.S. military forces will begin a four-part mission in Iraq next month when the U.S. State Department assumes operational lead in the country, with a major focus on Arab-Turkish relations.
American troops will on Sept. 1 formally shift from counterinsurgency operations to stabilization efforts, Pentagon and State Department officials said Aug. 17.
Colin Kahl, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Middle East policy, said U.S. military forces primarily will focus on four issues after the Defense Department hands over control of American operations in Iraq to the State Department:
■ "Force protection," meaning providing security for State Department and other U.S. officials there, as well as some Iraqis.
■ The continuation of programs to "train, equip and support" Iraqi military and security officials.
■ "Continued partnered counterterrorism missions."
■ Carrying out the remainder of Washington's plans to draw down the 50,000 military troops that will still be in Iraq after Sept. 1.
"
