US commander in Iraq General George Casey said Monday, Jan 15, the initial elements of the 20,000 promised reinforcements are in the Iraqi capital, but gave no details of figures or when operations wo

US commander in Iraq General George Casey said Monday, Jan 15, the initial elements of the 20,000 promised reinforcements are in the Iraqi capital, but gave no details of figures or when operations would start. Asked about difficulties with Iraq counterparts over the operation’s planning, Casey said: “Transitions generate friction,” but US and Iraqi officials are working hard to ensure a workable command structure that would allow Iraqi control with US military help.
The American general was confident the Iraqi government would purge militia and extra-government elements from its security forces. He warned there would be no instant improvement in security in the capital, but hoped for results in the summer or autumn.