Serrano: We Have Been in Iraq Five Years too Long

Statement

SERRANO: WE HAVE BEEN IN IRAQ FIVE YEARS TOO LONG

Today, Congressman José E. Serrano released the following statement on the 5th anniversary of the invasion of :

"Five years ago, this President launched a misguided war based on falsehoods. It is a war that has now cost us almost 4,000 lives and $600 billion- and these numbers continue to rise. It is a war that was started with a stunning lack of preparation for the occupation that would follow. It is a war that has hindered our efforts in , and made our allies in the region less safe. It is a war that has lowered our standing in the world and has damaged our historic alliances with nations who were once stalwart friends. And finally, it is a war that has produced no compelling evidence of making our homeland safer from those who wish us harm. For all these reasons, it is a war that should never have been started, and should immediately be ended.

"Our troops have done an admirable job given the lack of planning from the leadership in Washington. My heart also goes out to all those who have been killed or wounded in this conflict, and to their families and friends who have been impacted. We will continue to work to provide our veterans and their loved ones with the support they need.

"By now we all know of the surge that has reduced some of the violence in Iraq. But no increase in the number of troops, however great, can bring about the national reconciliation in that is needed to address the decades of grievances that are today piled up on the streets of Baghdad and throughout that nation.

"Five years ago we invaded under false pretenses and without a plan for what came next. Today, we must realize that the next step should be to bring our troops home."

Source