The candidates and Iraq

We can debate the logic, intelligence and true reasons behind the Iraq war until we are blue in the face. The fact is WE ARE THERE. No matter what you thought of the decision to go into Iraq, leaving now would be a total disaster and, in my opinion, could lead to World War III. The vaccuum that would be created in the absence of US forces would be chaos, the likes of which have never been seen. If you really want a country called "Al-Qaedastan" then by all means pull out. War is an ugly undertaking and this is no exception. Iran's support for the Shiites within Iraq is creating instability within Iraq right now. Can you imagine what influence they would have if the US were to pull out? Their goal is nothing less than Sharia law in Iraq. They envision an Iraq where women are treated as property, homosexuals are stoned to death, and Israel is "wiped off the map". I can't believe that Democrats, with their emphasis on womens and gay rights and general civil liberties would want this to happen. Furthermore, al-Qaeda's main objective is to kill as many Americans as they can. Do you really think that if the US were to pull out that this goal would change even the slightest bit? No chance. In fact it would strengthen their resolve, they would declare "victory over the infidels" and begin planning another 9/11.

I don't want to be in Iraq one day longer than we have to be, however, right now we have to be there. It is not only an issue of national security but, I believe, an issue of moral obligation. We overthrew their government and we have an obligation to the Iraqi citizens to leave their country safer, with better infrastructure, better schools, more civil liberties, a strong military to defend themselves, and a unified government once we leave. But those demanding a withdrawal don't want Iraq to have any of that.