Washington: US military commanders are likely to rule Iraq for at least several
months in the aftermath of an America-led ouster of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein
with the aim of protecting its oil fields and preventing rival factions from tearing
the country apart.
This is stated in an almost finished US government blueprint outlining the future of
Iraq and a broad and protracted American role in managing the reconstruction of the
country. The document is yet to be presented to President George W Bush.
US forces are likely to remain in full strength in Iraq for months after the war
ended, with a continued role for thousands of US troops there for years to
come, 'The Washington Post' said quoting American officials.
Iraqis relegated to advisory roles in the immediate post-war period would also
gradually be given a greater role, but they would not regain control of their
country for a year or more, it said.
The primary mission for US forces if hostilities break out would be to protect the
country's oil fields and prevent rival factions from settling scores or grabbing
territory.
During the initial post-war phase, the US military and its partners would
concentrate on maintaining stability and searching for nuclear, biological and
chemical weapons, it said quoting officials.
PTI
