Posted by x from ? (160.129.27.22) on Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 3:34PM :
In Reply to: Reference Article #3 posted by x from ? (160.129.27.22) on Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 3:33PM :
CONCLUSION
In the near-term, Saddam Hussein will continue to challenge our resolve as we rebuild and strengthen the Gulf coalition. In the long-term, Iran's moves toward regional hegemony could be of greater concern. The Central region is as dynamic as it is volatile. Weapons of mass destruction, state-to-state conflict, terrorism, and general instability will continue to place special demands on our people and on our ingenuity.
Interaction and cooperation with regional militaries will remain a vital ingredient in enhancing stability and security in this AOR. This interaction equals access and goes a long way toward building trust and confidence with our friends and allies. Our presence strengthens relations with our hosts and improves our ability to protect ourselves by eliminating suspicion, demystifying intent, opening the door to communication, and denying the closed environment in which terrorists thrive.
The volatility of our region requires that USCENTCOM remain adaptable and agile. Without a large footprint in the region, we must be truly “deployable.” Responsive command, control, and communications during peace, crisis, and conflict will remain key to our ability to accomplish the mission. We have the finest Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen, and Marines in the world. Your steadfast, superb and visible support has made it so and you can count on them to do all we ask of them—and more.
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House Armed Services Committee
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