Teribus--


I'm aware of the news about al-Masri. And as you know al-Qaeda uses the franchise model, not the IBM one. It is not at all clear that removing the CEO   (or division chief for Iraq) will make much of an impact. But I have been making my argument for months about the senselessness of the assertion that al-Qaeda is about to take over in Iraq--for the reason I cited.


So please be good enough to tell use whether you agree with my argument or not--rather than dodging the question by passing it on to McCain--who may possibly not answer my question.

You have been one the strongest supporters of a continued large presence in Iraq. I say it is no longer necessary---and only was ever necessary if you accept that GWB had grounds to invade in 2003. Which is also specious.

But the question now is: is the continued presence of a large US military force in Iraq necessary in your judgment or not? Yes or no.

No "War and Peace" -like tome is needed to answer the question.