Iraq 'Status of Forces' Agreement

The appearance of General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker before Senate committees yesterday (04 08 08) revealed nothing new about the ongoing tragedy in Iraq. The most interesting exchange occurred when Senator Hillary Clinton asked the ambassador about the 'status of forces' agreement the United States will sign with the al Maliki 'government'. Although this arrangement must be approved by the Iraqi 'parliament', it will be executed without Congressional approval. This is another shocking - if not surprising - example of Imperial rule. American lives and treasure will be expended with no input whatsoever from the public or the supine Congress.