'Oil-Seeking US Unlikely to Leave Iraq'

Analysts say the US withdrawal of its combat troops from Iraq and emphasis on training and advisory roles is aimed at disguising its continued military presence there.

US President Barack Obama in his September 1 speech formally declared an end to his country's combat operations in Iraq. Nearly 50,000 troops that are remaining in the country to advice and train Iraqi security forces are to leave by the end of 2011.

In his article "Rebranding the US Mission in Iraq: Welcome 'Advisors' and 'Assisters'," renowned journalist Eric Margolis rejected the concept of a full US withdrawal from Iraq, which has cost Washington $700 billion to date.'

Read more...