Washington: US President George W Bush today ordered an indefinite suspension in troops withdrawal from Iraq after July to enable military commanders evaluate future troop reductions in the war-torn country.

In a televised speech, Bush said he had told the top US commander in Iraq, General David Petraeus, that he "will have all the time he needs" to carry out the review.

Making it clear that the bulk of the American fighting force in Iraq is going to stay put right through the end of his tenure next year, Bush reduced the combat tours of US soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan to 12 months from 15 months.

"General Petraeus has reported that security conditions have improved enough to withdraw all five surge brigades by the end of July. That means that by July 31,the number of US combat brigades in Iraq will be down by 25 percent from last year," Bush said.

"Petraeus also says he'll need time to consolidate his forces and assess how this reduced American presence will affect conditions on the ground before making measured recommendations on further reductions," he added.

Bush also warned Iran in his speech that it faced a "choice" on Iraq live in peace with its neighbour or continue to arm and fund terror outfits.

"If Iran opts for the second alternative, Washington will act to protect its interests and that of Iraq's," Bush said.

"Serious and complex challenges remain in Iraq, from the presence of Al Qaida to the destructive influence of Iran to hard compromises needed for further political progress. Yet, with the surge, a major strategic shift has occurred."

Source : PTI