UK defense chief: Britain at turning point in Iraq

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Britain has reached a turning point in its mission in Iraq, Britain's defense chief said Monday, but he warned that troops face a long and arduous task in Afghanistan. Des Browne, who visited the southern Iraqi city of Basra in May, said troops based in the country's south had defeated militias and restored security. "We have reached a turning point in our involvement in Iraq," Browne told his Labour Party's annual rally. "The Iraqi armed forces, supported by British and US forces, have taken on - and defeated - the militia in Basra. There has been a transformation in the quality of life for ordinary Iraqis. Free from thuggery and intimidation, normal life is returning," he said. Browne said Britain's role in Iraq would change fundamentally next year, but he did not offer any specifics on troop withdrawals.