Did we rejoice too soon after Rumsfeld left? Secretary of Defense Robert Gates is endorsing a more aggressive strategy in Iraq. Apparently, the way to win a war we can’t win militarily is to send in more troops. Brilliant! Can I play Cowboys and Indians too?

General Abizaid is a strong opponent to troop increases. His departure would mean less military opposition to the White House’s agenda. Defense Secretary Gates will most likely be choosing a bobble-head replacement to agree with everything he proposes. As a former CIA man, we can expect torture and secret prisons to be part of the new secretary’s plan.

Bush has stated on many occasions that he listens to what the generals on the ground have to say. Now we know it’s true since every one who disagrees with him is fired. It seems General Shinseki won’t be the only one forced into retirement over troop levels.

WASHINGTON — Army Gen. John P. Abizaid, commander of U.S. forces in the Middle East, has submitted plans to retire and will leave his post in March, a step likely to make way for a change in military strategy at a time the Bush administration is seeking a new plan for Iraq.

Abizaid has been the primary architect of U.S. military strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan since becoming head of the U.S. Central Command more than three years ago. He has strenuously resisted calls to increase troop levels to quell rising violence in Baghdad, arguing it would increase Iraqi dependence on Americans.

But a growing number of current and former officers have embraced the idea, some of whom have briefed President Bush as part of his monthlong review of Iraq policy, and the White House is believed to be considering the move.

“If you’re going to change the strategy, in fairness to [Abizaid], let him go,” said a former senior Pentagon official who has worked closely with the general. “He’s given it all he’s got, in terms of personal sacrifice.”read more…

story via Truthdig