00:00:00:15 upon the withdrawal of the last surge combat team in July we undertake a 45-day period of consolidation and evaluation. At the end of that period we will commence a process of assessment. ...

AP-APTN-0930: Afghanistan US Monday, 25 July 2011 STORY:Afghanistan US- REPLAY New US envoy to Afghanistan welcomed into role LENGTH: 01:04 FIRST RUN: 0630 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 698489 DATELINE: Kabul - 25 July 2011 LENGTH: 01:04 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY ++QUALITY AS INCOMING++ SHOTLIST: 1. New US ambassador to Afghanistan, Ryan Crocker, being sworn in AUDIO: applause 2. Cutaway of two US soldiers forming guard of honour 3. Wide of Crocker behind podium at swearing-in ceremony 4. SOUNDBITE (English) Ryan Crocker, US Ambassador to Afghanistan: "We have no interest in using Afghanistan as a platform to project influence into neighbouring countries. Our sole interest is in Afghanistan's security and sustainable stability, and ensuring it will never again become a haven for international terrorism that poses a threat to the international community." 5. Audience members listening to Crocker 6. Wide of Crocker behind podium at swearing-in ceremony 7. US soldier meeting Crocker 8. Man in suit meeting Crocker STORYLINE: The new US ambassador to Afghanistan was sworn in on Monday at the American embassy in Kabul. Ryan Crocker, now America's top diplomat in Afghanistan, said the United States wasn't rushing to leave the country and that what happened in the months ahead would have far-reaching consequences across the globe. He said the US left Afghanistan the wrong way in the early 1990s, which resulted in a civil war, the rise of the Taliban, al-Qaida using Afghanistan as a sanctuary, and the September 11 attacks. Crocker also insisted that the US had no interest in permanent bases in Afghanistan. "We have no interest in using Afghanistan as a platform to project influence into neighbouring countries," he said. "Our sole interest is in Afghanistan's security and sustainable stability, and ensuring it will never again become a haven for international terrorism that poses a threat to the international community," he added. Crocker said he was confident that even after combat troops left in 2014, the US would be able to help prevent the Taliban from ever returning to power. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 07-25-11 0557EDT

OPENING STATEMENTS IN THE DR RICHARD SHARPE MURDER TRAIL ARE EXPECTED TRIAL ARE EXPECTED FRIDAY.

<p><b>--SUPERS</b>--</p>\n<p>Tuesday</p>\n<p>Lansing, MI</p>\n<p></p>\n<p>Rachel Crandall-Crocker</p>\n<p>Supports Rule Change</p>\n<p></p>\n<p>William Bloomfield</p>\n<p>Lawyer, Catholic Diocese of Lansing</p>\n<p></p>\n<p>Angie Martell</p>\n<p>Michigan Bar Association LGBTQ Section</p>\n<p></p>\n<p><b>--LEAD IN</b>--</p>\n<p></p>\n<p>Cody Butler</p>\n<p></p>\n<p><b>--REPORTER PKG-AS FOLLOWS</b>--</p>\n<p>Cody Butler, @CodyButlerTV: "More than 200 people have submitted comments to the supreme court on this issue. Members of the LGBTQ community say this will help people who are transgender feel more comfortable in the courtroom but people opposing this change say it's not needed.</p>\n<p></p>\n<p></p>\n<p>Rachel Crandall-Crocker, Supports Rule Change: "Respect is what it's all about."</p>\n<p>RACHAEL CRANDRALL-CROCKER IS ONE OF MANY PEOPLE ACROSS THE STATE WHO ISTRANSGENDER.</p>\n<p>SHE SAYS KNOWING A JUDGE MUST USE HER PREFERRED PRONOUNS WOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE.</p>\n<p>Rachel Crandall-Crocker, Supports Rule Change: "If I know that a person or a court or whatever really respects me, I'll be able to loosen up."</p>\n<p>BALANCING EQUALITY WHILE SEARCHING FOR TRUTH CAN BE CHALLENGING ...</p>\n<p>ESPECIALLY WITH SO MANY PEOPLE WANTING TO KEEP THE RULES HOW THEY ARE.</p>\n<p>LAWYERS FOR THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF LANSING SAY THE CHANGE COULD VIOLATE A JUDGE'S FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHTS.</p>\n<p>William Bloomfield, Catholic Diocese of Lansing lawyer: "We want to speak out on behalf of those Catholic individuals, as well as again people of other religious views as well as just anyone that might oppose this new idealology that is not representative of many people's views."</p>\n<p>WILLIAM BLOOMFIELD SAYS THERE ARE WAYS TO RESPECTFULLY ADDRESS SOMEONE WITHOUT USING PRONOUNS.</p>\n<p>William Bloomfield, Catholic Diocese of Lansing lawyer: "rather than having to go along with their idealology, we can refer to a person as a plaintiff or as a defendant or by their last names."</p>\n<p>THE STATE SUPREME COURT SAYS THERE'S NOTHING IN THE PROPOSAL THAT WILL STOP THE COURT FROM USING THOSE.</p>\n<p>BUT ANGIE MARTELL ... WHO CHAIRS THE LGBTQ SECTION OF THE MICHIGAN BAR ASSOCIATION SAYS HAVING THE COURT USE PRONOUNS IS IMPORTANT FOR THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY.</p>\n<p>Angie Martell, Michigan Bar Association LGBTQ Section: "When you say we don't really care what your pronoun is, we don't need to use your pronoun, that to me is really a level of disrespect."</p>\n<p>Cody Butler, @CodyButlerTV: The Supreme Court it taking written comment until July 1. In Lansing, CB, News 10.></p>\n<p></p>\n<p>THE MICHIGAN SUPREME COURT WILL HOST A PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE IT DECIDES IF IT WILL CHANGE THE RULES.</p>\n<p></p>\n<p>THAT DECISION COULD COME THIS FALL.</p>\n<p></p>\n<p><b>-----END-----CNN.SCRIPT-----</b></p>\n<p></p>\n<p><b>--KEYWORD TAGS--</b></p>\n<p>MICHIGAN MICHIGAN SUPREME COURT LGBTQ TRANSGENDER IDENTITY </p>

AP-APTN-0930: ++Afghanistan Assassination Wednesday, 27 July 2011 STORY:++Afghanistan Assassination- NEW Taliban sent suicide bomber to kill mayor of Kandahar LENGTH: 02:14 FIRST RUN: 0930 RESTRICTIONS: SEE SCRIPT TYPE: Eng/Pashto/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/AP PHOTOS STORY NUMBER: 698809 DATELINE: Kandahar - 27 July 2011/FILE LENGTH: 02:14 ++PRELIMINARY SCRIPT - FULL SHOTLIST AND STORYLINE TO FOLLOW++ AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY AP PHOTOS / PROVINCIAL MEDIA CENTRE HANDOUT - NO ACCESS CANADA/FOR BROADCAST USE ONLY - STRICTLY NO ACCESS ONLINE OR MOBILE SHOTLIST: AP PHOTOS / PROVINCIAL MEDIA CENTRE HANDOUT - NO ACCESS CANADA/FOR BROADCAST USE ONLY - STRICTLY NO ACCESS ONLINE OR MOBILE FILE: Kandahar - Date Unknown ++4:3++ 1. STILL of Kandahar Mayor Ghulam Haider Hamidi at news conference AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Kandahar - 27 July 2011 ++16:9++ 2. Various of attack site and Ghulam Haider Hamidi covered with sheet 3. Damaged building where attack took place 4. Close-up of debris on ground 5. Security at checkpoint 6. SOUNDBITE (Pashto) Tooryalai Wesa, Governor of Kandahar: ++TRANSLATION TO FOLLOW++ 7. Wide of speakers at news conference 8. Audience at news conference 9. Wesa leaving conference 10. Ryan Crocker, new US ambassador to Afghanistan, arriving for news conference 11. SOUNDBITE (English) Ryan Crocker, US ambassador to Afghanistan: ++TRANSCRIPTION TO FOLLOW++ 12. Cutaway of rocker 13. SOUNDBITE (English) Ryan Crocker, US ambassador to Afghanistan: ++TRANSCRIPTION TO FOLLOW++ 14. Crocker leaving conference STORYLINE: The mayor of Kandahar was assassinated on Wednesday by a suicide bomber who hid explosives in his turban, Afghan officials said. Mayor Ghulam Haider Hamidi, who was 65 years old, is the third top-ranking official to be slain in Afghanistan this month. ++MORE TO FOLLOW++ Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 07-27-11 0615EDT

00:00:00:00 WX/MCCAIN/ABYSS TRT: 46 OC: AND SELF-DETERMINATION
09:46:03 Today, it is possible to talk with real hope and optimism about the future of Iraq and the outcome of our efforts there. While a job of bringing security to Iraq is not finished, as the recent fighting in Basra and elsewhere vividly demonstrated, we're no longer staring into the abyss of defeat and we can now look ahead to the genuine prospect of success, success, the establishment of a peaceful, stable, prosperous, democratic state, that poses no threats to its neighbors, and contributes to the defeat of terrorists, this success is within reach. And with success, Iraqi forces can take responsibility for enforcing security in their countries and American troops can return home with the honor of having secured their country's interests at great personal costs and of helping another people achieve peace and self-determination. 09:46:49

CUT#: 05428251
WX-MCCAIN/KEEP TROOPS TRT :29 OC: moral leadership
9:49:54 I do not want to keep our troops in Iraq a minute longer than necessary to secure our interests there. Our goal, my goal, is an Iraq that no longer needs American troops and I believe we can achieve that goal perhaps sooner than many imagined but I also believe that the promise of withdrawal of our forces regardless of the consequences would constitute a failure of political and moral leadership. 9:50:23

CUT#: 05428254
WX-PETRAEUS/UNSATISFACTORY TRT: 30 OC: FORCES TO IRAQ.
9:53:21 The situation in certain areas is still unsatisfactory and innumerable challenges remain. Morever as events in the past two weeks have reminded us and as I have repeatedly cautioned, the progress made since last spring is fragile and reversible. Still, security in Iraq is better than it was when Amb. Crocker and I reported to you last September and it is significantly better than it was 15 months ago when Iraq was on the brink of civil war and the decision was made to deploy additional forces to Iraq. 9:53:51

WX/PETRAEUS/45 DAY PERIOD (SHORT) TRT: 28 OC: CONSOLIDATION AND EVALUATION
WX/PETRAEUS/45 DAY PERIOD (LONG) TRT: 1:01 OC: MUCH TO ACHIEVE
10:11:27 A failed state in Iraq would pose serious consequences for the greater fight against Al Qaeda and for regional stability, and for the already existing humanitarian crisis in Iraq and for the efforts to counter, malign Iranian influence. After weighing these factors I recommended to my chain of command that we continue the drawdown in the surge combat forces and upon the withdrawal of the last brigade in July we undertake a 45-day period of consolidation and evaluation. 10:11:55 (28) At the end of that period we will commence a process of assessment to examine the conditions on the ground and over time to determine when we can make recommendations for further reductions. This process will be continuous and recommendations for further reductions made as conditions permit. This approach does not allow establishment of a set withdrawal timetable. However, it does provide the flexibility those of us on the ground need to preserve the still fragile security gains our troopers fought so hard and sacrificed so much to achieve. 10:12:28 (1:01)

WX/PETRAEUS/RECOMMENDATION TRT: 23 OC: FOR FURTHER REDUCTIONS
10:11: 43 I recommended to my chain of command that we continue the drawdown in the surge combat forces and upon the withdrawal of the last brigade in July we undertake a 45-day period of consolidation and evaluation. At the end of that period we will commence a process of assessment to examine the conditions on the ground and over time to determine when we can make recommendations for further reductions. 10:12:06

CUT#: 05428261
WX-PETRAEUS/PAUSE TRT: 32 OC: MUCH TO ACHEIVE.
10:11:56 At the end of that period we'll commence a process of assessment to examine the conditions on the ground and over time determine when we can make recommendations for further reductions. This process will be continuous with recommendations for further reductions made as conditions permit. This approach does not allow establishment of a set withdrawal tiemtable. However it does provide the flexibility those of us on the ground need to poreserve the still fragile security gains our troopers have fought so hard and sacrificed so much to achieve. 10:12:28

CUT#: 05428294
WX/PETRAEUS/SPECIAL GROUPS TRT: 28 OC: THE SPECIAL GROUPS
10:03:23 These elements are funded, trained, armed, directed by Iran's Qudz force by help from Lebanese Hezbollah. It was these groups that launched Iranian rockets and mortar rounds at Iraq's seat of government two weeks ago causing loss of innocent life and fear in the capital and requiring Iraqi and coalition actions in response. Iraqi and coalition leaders have repeatedly noted their desire Iran live up to the promises made by President Ahmadinejad and other Iranian leaders to stop the support for the special groups. 10:03:51

WX/CROCKER/UNEVEN PROGRESS TRT: 07 OC: PROGRESS IN IRAQ.
WX/CROCKER/UNEVEN PROGRESS (LONG) TRT: 24 OC: IN LOCAL SECURITY. 
9:52:56 Since Ambassador Crocker and I appeared before you seven months ago, there has been significant but uneven security progress in Iraq. (07) 9:53:03 Since September, levels of violence and civilian deaths have been reduced substantially, Al Qaeda-Iraq and a number of other extremist elements have been dealt serious blows, the capabilities of Iraqi Security Force elements have grown, and there has been noteworthy involvement of local Iraqis in local security. (24) 9:53:20 

WX/CROCKER/IRAQI PARLIAMENT TRT: 40 OC: BECOME MORE FLEXIBLE
10:17:46 Last summer, the parliament suffered from persistence and often paralyzing disputes over leadership and procedure. Now it is successfully grasping -- grappling with complex issues and producing viable tradeoffs and compromised packages. As debates in Iraq's parliament become more about how to resolve tough problems in a practical way, Iraqi politics have become more fluid. Those politics still have a sectarian bent in basis but coalitions have formed around issues and sectarian political groupings, which often were barriers to progress, have become more flexible. 10:18:26

CUT#: 05428323
WX-CROCKER/NOT HOPELESS TRT: 25 OC: FEND FOR THEMSELVES
10:35:26 Hard does not mean hopeless and the political and economical progress of the past few months is significant. These gains are fragile and they are reversible. Americans have invested a great deal in Iraq in blood as well as treasure and they have the right to ask whether this is worth it whether it is now time to walk away and let the Iraqis fend for themselves. 10:35:51

WX-CROCKER/DEPARTURE TRT: 37 OC: A SECOND CHANCE
10:36:20 I remain convinced that a major departure from our current engagement would bring failure and we have to be clear with ourselves about what failure will mean. Al qaeda is retreating in Iraq but it is not yet defeated. Al Qaeda's leaders are looking for every opportunity they can to hang on. Osama bin Laden has called Iraq the "perfect base" and it reminds us that a fundamental aim of Al Qaeda is to establish itself in the Arab world. It almost succeeded in Iraq; we cannot allow it a second chance. 10:36:57

WX/CROCKER/IRAQ POTENTIAL TRT: 38 OC: FAILURE WOULD MEAN
10:35:53 Iraq has the potential to develop into a stable, secure multi-ethnic, multi-sectarian democracy under the rule of law. Whether it realizes that potential is ultimately up to the Iraqi people. Our support, however, will continue to be critical. I said in September that I cannot guarantee success in Iraq. That is still the case, although I think we are now closer. I remain convinced that a major departure from our current engagement would bring failure, and we have to be clear with ourselves about what failure would mean. 10:36:31 

WX/CROCKER/NOT TIE HANDS TRT: 21 OC: BASE POLICY DECISIONS.
10:24:20 The agreement will not establish permanent bases in Iraq, and we anticipate that it will expressly foreswear them. 10:24:27 The agreement will not specify troop levels, (10:24:31) and it will not tie the hands of the next Administration. 10:24:33 Our aim is to ensure that the next President arrives in office with a stable foundation upon which to base policy decisions10:24:41.

WX/LEVIN/PRESSURE OFF TRT: 08 OC: OWN COUNTRY
10:46:48 I think this open ended pause that you have recommended takes the pressure off Iraqi leaders to take responsibility for their own country. 10:46:56

WX/MCCAIN-PETRAEUS/AL QAEDA THREAT TRT: 22 OC: OR ANYBODY ELSE
10:55:57 McCain: There are numerous threats to security in Iraq and the future of Iraq. Do you still view Al Qaeda in Iraq as a major threat? Petraeus: It is still a major threat, though it is certainly not as major a threat as it was 15 months ago. McCain: Certainly not an obscure sect of the Shiite overall, or Sunnis or anybody else. 10:51:19 

WX/KENNEDY/2 IRAQS TRT: 27 OC: MILITARY REMAINS OPENENDED
10:56:30 In listening to the testimony this morning, General Petraeus, it seems clear that the administration describes one Iraq while we see another. The president sees an Iraq in which Iraqis want to make political accomodation if only the security would allow it. Most Americans see an Iraq in which the premise of the president's policy has been proven hopelessly wrong and will continue to be wrong as long as the commitment of our military remains openended. 10:56:57

WX/KENNEDY/PRESIDENT'S ARROWS TRT: 37 OC: RESOLVE THEIR DIFFERENCES
10:57:34 A year ago the president argued that we wouldn't begin to withdraw troops from Iraq because there was too much violence. Now the president argues we can't being to withdraw troops because violence is down. Whatever the conditions on the ground, the president's arrows always point in the same direction: to an open ended commitment of our troops. American people deserve to know when the arrows will finally point to an exit from Iraq and it's time to put the Iraqis on notice that our troops will not remain forever so that they will take the essential steps to resolve their differences. 10:58:11

WX/WARNER-PETRAEUS/WORTH IT TRT: 48 OC: OF THE WORLD
11:05:26 Warner: Up to 80% of the Americans just don't accept the premise, at this point in time, that it's worth it. Can you, now, just in simple language tell us, yes it is worth it and it is making us safer here at home? Petraeus: Senator, I do believe it is worth it or I would not have accepted -- you know, you do what you're ordered to do, but you sometimes are asked whether you would like to or are willing to take on a task and I took on the task, the priviledge of command of Multi-national Force Iraq, because I do believe that it is worth it and I do believe that the interests there are of enormous importance, again, to our country, not just to the people of Iraq and the people of that region of the world. 11:06:14

WX/LIEBERMAN/PROGRESS TRT: 44 OC: ON OUR BEHALF
11:09:37 You've told us that the strategy associated with the surge is working, progress has been made but it's entirely reversible, you've been very frank about some of the problems that we still face. I say -- what I'm about to say with respect to my colleagues who have consistently opposed our presence in Iraq. As I hear the questions and the statements today it seems to me that there's a "hear no progress in Iraq, see no progress in Iraq and most of all, speak of no progress in Iraq". The fact is there has been progress in Iraq thanks to extraordinary effort by the two of you and all those who serve under you on our behalf. 11:10:21 (0:00) /

NAME: IRQ CROCKER 20070726I TAPE: EF07/0893 IN_TIME: 10:17:23:12 DURATION: 00:01:32:14 SOURCES: AP TELEVISION DATELINE: Baghdad, 26 July 2007 RESTRICTIONS: SHOTLIST 1. SOUNDBITE (English) Ryan Crocker, US Ambassador to Iraq: ''I for one, someone who spent decades in the Middle East am deeply concern about what could happen if we decide - based on reasons other than the conditions on ground in Iraq - that we simply don't want to be involved anymore. What that could mean in terms of an al-Qaida resurgence, what that could mean in terms of a massive human catastrophe, with bloodshed among Iraqi civilians on a scale we have not seen and may find it hard to imagine, what that could mean for Iranian intervention and consolidation in Iraq and what it could for drawing in Iraq's southern neighbours, Turkey and the Arab states. So this is a tough slog that we are involved in. There are no easy, quick, magic answers at this stage. But I think it is very important that for own interest that we stay with this until Iraq gets to a point of sustainable stability, because I think that can be done.'' 2. Cutaway of Crocker hands 3. SOUNDBITE (English) Ryan Crocker, US Ambassador to Iraq: ''We've got to get the conditions right and that is going to take more time and more hard work by Iraqis and by us. When the conditions are right then you can talk about the timetable.'' 4. US and Iraqi flags STORYLINE: Washington's top envoy in Iraq said on Thursday that increased US troop strength had brought down violence but it was impossible to rush political reconciliation or to predict when conditions would allow the United States to begin reducing its involvement. With less than two months remaining before Ambassador Ryan Crocker and General David Petraeus - the US commander in Iraq - report to Congress about progress in Iraq, the top envoy also told The Associated Press in Baghdad that "there are no easy, quick, magic answers at this stage." Crocker refused to be drawn on when he thought US troop levels could be reduced and other American involvement might be scaled back. ''We've got to get the conditions right and that is going to take more time and more hard work by Iraqis and by us," Crocker said. "When the conditions are right then you can talk about the timetable,'' he added. The ambassador warned those in the United States who are calling for a quick American withdrawal that he was not going to be able to give Congress positive answers about when US troops could safely leave Iraq, which remains the most dangerous country on earth in the fifth year of the US military intervention. He spoke of deep concerns "if we decide - based on reasons other than the conditions on ground in Iraq - that we simply don't want to be involved anymore." A growing number of critics of continued US involvement in Iraq disagree strongly, arguing that to stay longer damages American standing in the world, wastes taxpayer dollars and sacrifices the lives of US troops unnecessarily.

00:00:00:00 Geoff Morrell
Pentagon Press Secretary

SOTS:

WX/MORRELL/CONTINUING ARRAGEMENT TRT:15 OC: WORK WELL AGAIN
12:12:05 The arrangement that we had last September in which General Petraus and Ambassador Crocker testified to the congress served the congress and the American People well. And we would liek the continue that arragement.It has nothing to do with anything beyond the fact that it worked well last time and we think it can work well again. 12:12:20

WX/MORRELL/ PERSONAL OBJECTIONS TRT:12 OC: WORK AGAIN WELL
12:12:24 I have not talked to the secretary, about whether or not he has personal objections to the notion of Admiral Fallon testifying again. I don't think its about that, I think its about a system that worked last time well and can work again well. 13:12:36


WX/MORRELL/ESTABLISHING RELATIONS TRT:20 OC: THIS NEW NATION
12:18:16 This is a normal part of establishing bilateral relations with nations.We have similar arrangements with a number of other countries.Including Serbia and the focus here is on developing a trasparent and professional security establishment for this new nation. 12:18:36


Rough Log:

Morrell
12:01:25 Good Afternoon.

12:01:37 Opening statements, Gates spent part of his morning in the tank discussing options n Iraq,.
12:01:54 As many of you know he had a conversation with General Petraus. These 2 meetings which lasted 2 and a half hours.
12:02:15 The secretary was very impressed with presentations he received.

questions:
12:02:47 Today's tank session:

Morrell
12:02:55 I was not in the tank so i do not know the specifics of how the presentation was presented.
12:03:07 But we have talked many times and the process is identical to the one we used last september. 
12:03:22 The chairmans views will be heard. THey were heard by the secretary today.
12:03:33 I would caution you though that this process began some time ago.
12:03:47 The secretary is now up to spend on where Petraus is.
12:04:03 There are only a few days before the president will hear this briefs.
12:04:13 THis has been an ongoing process.


12:04:27 The White House announced yesterday that the president is coming here to go into the tanks
12:04:44 When the president comes will he hear from the secretary at the same time?

Morrell
12:04:55 The secretary has many opportunities to see the president. He sees him daily.
12:05:08 This time is dedicated for them to share there thoughts on the way forward in Iraq

12:05:27 WHat are the view points?

Morrell
12:05:39 Some of this is already out there on the record. We want to preserve the integrity of this process. First hand, so I am going to stay what is out there is significant already.

12:06:15 WHen will presidents hear from Fallon and Petraus?

Morrell
12:06:21 I am not here to announcement the presidents schedule.
12:06:36 I would imagine in the next few days though.

12:06:42 What can you tell us about Petraus and Fallon views?

Morrell
12:06:56 It is not my place to speak of them, before they are shared with the president.
12:07:11 But i am going to pass on this opportunity, the president should hear from the leaders first. Their is merit to this.

12:07:30 Can you describe the scope at least?

Morrell
12:07:37 Everything I think everyone has been forthright, the way ahead is conditional.
12:07:55 THe mainly draw downs and what happens beyond them is certainly condoned space.
12:08:07 The only thing we have talked about is the rapid withdrawal of the 4 surge brigades.
12:08:21 Losing those 4 bridges over the course of 4 months is going to require some assessment of the impact that will have.
12:08:37 The president should hear first hand rom his commanders first.

12:08:45 We know we will hear from Petraus when they go before congress. What is the opportunity to hear from Gates and the staff?

Morrell
12:09:14 Well the secretary and the chairman are really accessible to you all, I am sure there will be an option for them to come before you and explain their thinking.
12:09:38 Members of congress to question them? I dot know that there has been a dates chosen, but it is something in the offing I imagine.
12:09:58 Admiral Fallon was requested to testify before congress, But he will not be doing this with the general.

12:10:17 Separate hearing after that?

Morrell
12:10:33 Fallen will have resigned his command by that time? Obviously the testament is in april.
12:10:46 The system worked very well last time.

12:11:07 Ruling out admiral Fallon testifying in face his dosen't retire from active duty until sometime around may? Who has ruled out his testifying? Is gates opposed to Fallon testifying?
Why and Who?

Morrell
12:11:44 Now Barbara I said he retires his command, the purpose to have him testify he would be the active sub com commander. 
12:12:05 The arrangement that we had last September in which General Petraus and Ambassador Crocker testified to the congress served the congress and the American People well. And we would liek the continue that arragement.It has nothing to do with anything beyond the fact that it worked well last time and we think it can work well again. 12:12:20
12:12:20 I don't know Barbara. I don't think its about objections.
12:12:24 I have not talked to the secretary, about whether or not he has personal objections to the notion of admiral Fallon testifying again
12:12:32 I dont think its about that, i think its about a system that worked last time well and can work again well. 13:12:36

12:12:38 (Starr) You said it had been ruled out. If congress has asked for a 4 star. I am not saying it is the day that :
12:13:11 The questions barbara was would they testify together, The last time we used Peatraus and crocker that is the mode we are going to do again.
12:13:33 That is another question, i do know that Fallon is due to resign his......

Morrell
12:13:49 Clinton has specifically asked :
12:13:59 Again I am here to tell you what I know that the Peatraus cocker testimony will be the same. and that is the extent I will comment on that.


12:14:20 Fallon and his resignation: What is appropriate as far as comments to the media?

Morrell
12:14:38 no comment

12:14:46 Can you update us on the process of finding Fallons replacement?

Morrell
12:14:55 We are at the beginning statements of that process
12:15:04 It is really beginning Jeff as we speak. I think it would be a careful considered lengthy process to replace Fallon at central command. The secretary wants to make sure.. there are a number of qualified canidates.
12:15:44 That is as far as we are in this process. I've done this once before but I would say that, 
12:16:02 There will not be someone at Fallon job in a permeant basis until at least may. 
12:16:15 I cant say any of the canidates. No. 
12:16:26 I mean this is going to be a very tightly held process.

12:16:35 Fallon: I dont understand why is congress.. is this pentagon afraid this will turn into a hearing on Iran?

Morrell
12:17:04 No it wouldnt be its on Iraq. As I said before it will be the same as last time. 
12:17:16 My answer will not change no matter how many times we ask this question, the system worked well last time and we are going to make sure it works just as well this time by employing the same couple of people.
12:17:24 Petratus and Gates , it worked well, if the congress wants to hold hearings with other commanders, 
12:17:36 I suppose that's their perogative and we will cross that bridge when we get to it. But I think we believed the system worked well last time. 

12:17:43 Can you talk to us a little about the decision to provide arms to cosovo? Is this something the Secretary Gates and Rice talked to the Russians about this week and I am curious about the decision given, on the ongoing dispute and disagreeement about the status of Cosovo.

Morrell
12:17:56 I was not in all the meeting this weekend. I am not sure if that came up. Cosovo was discussed,
12:18:13 I wouldn't read too much into this. 
12:18:16 I think this is a normal part of establishing bilateral relations with nations.
12:18:21 We have similar arrangements with a number of other countries.Including Serbia and the focus here is on developing a trasparent and professional security establishment for this new nation.* 12:18:36
12:18:45 We are pleased that more and more nations are realizing Cosovo 's independance. 

12:19:02 uh the secretary met with georgia president...
.
12:19:09 The president did meet with the president of Georgia.
12:19:13Absolutely, well I mean secretary gates like bush strongly is for ...those 2 countries want to have better integration's in the west. *
12:19:24 Secretary Gates like President Bush is strongly supports Map for Ukraine and Georgia, Those two countries want to establish a better relationship with Nato, intergration in the west and this is certainly would be step for them to do so.
12:19:45 i think its important not to confuse Map for membership,
12:19:48 it is what its name implies it is, you know that 3 of the countries, croatia .....
12:20:02 So this could be a long process and it is designed to encourage democratic and military reforms. But it dose not give those countries protection until they are members.
12:20:32 That is a question for the president , it is his policy. 

12:20:50 White House is looking to put together a status of forces .. with Iraq.
12:21:05 WHat does the pentagon want as far as an agreement there?

Morrell
12:21:18 I think the secretary has been explicit. We are not trying to tie the hands of the legal chief, but we do need the options to operate.
12:21:41 These negations are on going, i think we are going to see lots of talks between now and july.

12:21:55 What do you hope to established.

Morrell
12:22:00 A normalized agreement is the legal permission for us to operate in country. Delivering mail to conduct military operations.*

12:22:24 What would is include? A US guarantee ?

Morrell
12:22:33 No not for security.

12:22:40 All of these meetings: Does this preempt Petraus and Gates?

Morrell
12:22:57 I dont think it preempts anything. Presumably Petarus isnt going to go to congress.
12:23:21 It is the same process we had last time. The same, that will happen again and again and again.
12:23:35 It will not stray from that?

12:23:51 President and Policy Announcement?

Morrell
12:23:57 No I would not expect that but that is a question for the White House. 


12:24:05 Thank you. (0:00) /

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.

00:00:00:00 Kevin Rudd 
Australian Prime Minister 


WX/BUSH/FRIENDSHIP TRT: 25 OC:COMMITTED TO
11:37:47 One thing is for sure, that friendship will strengthen and endure under the leadership of Kevin Rudd. I have found him to be a straightforward fella, being from Texas, that's the way I -- that's the way I like it. He is thoughtful, he is strategic in thought, and he is committed to the same values that I'm committed to.(25) 11:38:12

WX/BUSH/ENVIRONMENT TRT:34 OC:MUST BE PARTICIPANTS
11:39:29We talked about the environment and energy. There's an interesting moment for all of us to recognize that we can become less dependent in our case on foreign oil and at the same time be good stewards of the environment. We talked about the need to work collaboratively to achieve an international agreement in which the United States is at the table along with developing nations like China and India. In order for there to be an effective international agreement China and India must be participants. (34)11:40:03

WX/RUDD/CONFRIMED TODAY TRT:34 OC:THE YEAR AHEAD 
11:47:15 We are confirmed today to President and the government in Iraq in Baghdad, an assistance package of some $165 million. a large slice of which will go to how we assist Iraqis, train their people better in agriculture and the wider economy. Prime Minister Maliki said, this is a big need for us. We are a dry continent. We know little about dry land farming so we will be spending a lot of money training a lot of Iraqi farmers in agriculture science in the year ahead (34). 11:47:49

WX/BUSH/ANY GOVERNMENT TRT:32 OC:MOMENT AS WELL 
11:50:44 Any government that presumes to represent, you know, the majority of people, must confront criminal elements are people who think they can live outside the law. And that's what's taking place in Basra and in other parts of Iraq. I would say this is a defining moment in the history of a free Iraq. There have been other defining moments up until now but this is a defining moment as well. (32) 11:51:16


rough log:
1:37:20thank you , be seated. thanks for rousing ovation
11:37:29welcome, glad you are here. laura and i thrilled to welcome you. apprecaite the opportunity to visit w the leader of one of america's closest allies and friends
11:37:56 he is a straightforward fellow..i am from texas so i like that...thoiughtful, strategic in thought,,committed to same values i am committed to...rule of law,,human decency
11:38:28we talked about economies and benefits of trade..i said its possible to achieve doha roud. i informed him we are willing ot make serious concessions on agricultural frint but we expect other nations to 
11:39:12free trade agreement is working..signing open skies agreement next monday
11:39:30environment and energy. we recognize we can becoem less dependent on foreign oil. china india..effective international agrteement. china and india must be participant. developing nations imporivijg thei renvironment. low carbon energy. we are spending alot of money on this in teh uis
11:40:30 we need to change our energy habits in teh us
11:40:46 we talked about freedom and the need to promote an ideoalogy based on hope and decency. an ideology of liberty. want ot thant aust govt and poeple for helping afghanistan. we talked about how bucharest can be a success. ia pprecaite your strong committemtn to helping karzai govt succeed
11:41:41 i like to be in teh presence of someone who does what he says he is going to do. politicians dont usually do that. the committemmnt of afhan isnt to leave oraqw alone but it is to change mission.
11:42:20 rudd said to malaki..what can we do to help you? i want ot thank him for stepping forward to helping 
11:42:57arent you mad for him fulfilling campaign pledge? the answer is no.
11:43:11 we talked about burma. thank you for your committement to bnurma. n korea and 6th party talks. we are going ot have a good lunch and we'll continue our discussions on a variety of subjects. he is an expert on china. 
rudd
11:43:57
11:44:06 this alliance has been supported by 12 american presidents. i am the 14th austarlian. this alliance has a strong robust future. it is rooted in shared values. democracy is part and parcel of who we are as peoples. our alliance is roorted in a common set of values. from world war ii to present we have been together. 
11:45:24 in teh futire. we discussed global economy,. in australia it is a global chanllenge....our response is looking at how we can get some better transparency out there in finacnial markets. imf has an upcomin gmeeting
11:46:05 doha round. if ever the global economy needs a psycholigial injection that can be delivered by doha round. a combo of ourselves and the cannes group, us, brazila nd others. strong long term suppoerters of free trade around the world drives growth. good for our economy.
11:46:59 on foreign policy we discussed iraq and afghanistan..we have conformed today an assistance package of 165 million doallars. how to rtain them better in agricualture. malaki said they are a dry continent so we will spend money on helping them. we are in afghanistan for th elong hail. its a tough fight and we are in it for the long hauil. 
11:48:11its was reminding for me when i saw the guest book at blair house and an entry in 1944..john curain..fdr was pres. it reminds me how much this alliance had s been the product of nurturung. 
11:49:05 i designate you as a honoraorty queenslander. queensland is bigger than texas but can i say..chuckles..queenslanders and texans have a lot in common and they get along well. i appreciate the relationship we are forming
questions:
11:50:44any govt that presumes to represent the majority of people must confront criminal elements. that is what is taking place of basra and in other parts of iraq. this is a defining moment in the history of free iraq. the decision to move iraqi troops into basra talks about malaki's leadership. would he be willing to confront shia and sunni criminal elements? he said he would. his decision to move into basra shows even handed 
. it is an interesting moment for the people of iraq. in order for the 
11:52:38this is a priovince where iraqis are int eh lead. this is a good test for them. routin gout these folks who have burrowed in society will take a while but it is necessary.
11:53:14rudd: the message i would take to our friends and prtners in europe in bucharest..all of us must share the burden. we need to sign up to a common script both military and civil. i believe we can . no point in being there unless youthink you can. once you sign up say lets all step up to the palte to make this work. i am optimisteic about progress in bucharest. i think we should look forward to a good outcome.
11:54:36how can alliance remain unchanged with changes?
11:55:02bush
11:55:51 how concerned are you that the violence refelecrts a deepening civil and ethnic conflict? and crackdown in tibet?
11:56:39 vbasra has been a place where criminality has thrived. it was a matter of time till the govt was going ot have to deal w it. most peolpe want to have normal lives. most mothers want their children to go to school. 
11:58:09they are fighting some reptty tough characters and yes tehre is going to be violence and that's sad but this situation needed to be dealt with. like mosul. my decision will be based n gates, joint chiefrs, petraus, crocker. it is important ot be successful in iraq. we want to send a message to iran that they will not have their way with nations in the middle east. a defeat of al qaeda . this is vital for our natinal interests unless we lose our nerve and let politics get in the way. that is not going ot be the case so long as i am president. this is a defining moment and its going ot take a while to deal with these elments
12:00:14rudd: it is clear that there are human rights abused in tibet. we need to be upfront about whats going on. we shouldnt shilly shally about it. i think it would be appropritarte for eh tchinese govt to engage dalis lam reps in an informal set of dicussions about future possibiliteis for arrangements in tibert. it is difficult and complex.
12:01:29pres: i couldn hav e said it better. we urge restraint. i apprecaite the pm's view and advice in dealing with this issue
12:02:02austailan will withdraw 500 combat rtoops..how does it fit w. your view that withdrawaing troops as defeat.
12:02:33 pres: i didn't exactly say that..btw- we are withdrawign troops. its called return on success. 5 battalions by july. troops are coming out by brigades bc we are successful. i would view th eaustrailan voew as retun ron success. that is fundamentally different that well this is too hard pull them all out.
12:03:42a long erm strategic committemtn does not talk abotu permanent bases but it does talk abotu a joint strategic realtionship. iraqi govt knows are arent going to leave them in teh lurch. the answer is it depends on what our commanders say..
12:04:32i can tell you what we're going to do when we get back from nato. (0:00) /

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.

A 4K video clip of a 52 year old woman on the floor giving her cat kisses.

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.

A slow motion 4K video clip of a couple in their 50s smiling as they take a selfie video in the beautiful fall weather.

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.

Monday, September 10, 2007 CANNON ROTUNDA STAKEOUT: PETRAEUS & CROCKER PRESSER RS24/X80/Slugged: 1645 & 1810 PETRAEUS SO X80 Slugged: 1645 PETRAEUS SO X80 16:58:27 Rep. Tom Lantos exits hearing Slugged: 1815 PETRAEUS SO X80 18:46:12 Duncan Hunter, Ike Skelton, Gen. David Petraeus exiting 18:47:12 Petraeus & Skelton talking off-mic, ts 18:47:33 REP. IKE SKELTON: we just concluded the hearing w/ Petraeus & Crocker.admiration for the general and American troops, commands and great deal of appreciation for their work. 18:48:00 America's finest, thank you. Very difficult, unanswered question, Iraqi political nature. Thank you. 18:48:21 REP. DUNCAN HUNTER: let me just say, very important hearing. Listened to, reassessing their positions. I hope that reassessing in many cases in support of this policy. 18:48:43 Our 2 leaders, lots of facts that reflect this surge is working, things are much better, in Anbar Province. 18:48:59 that dynamic spreading throughout, thank you. 18:49:18 no short questions, commend chairman. In depth answer. 18:49:33 Petraeus & Crocker shakes hands with Hunter & Skelton Q&A 18:49:47 GEN. DAVID PETRAEUS: Up to the keepers of the Washington clock. Provide forthright assessment of situation. Explain where progress, recognize where there was no progress. More needs to be done. 18:50:18 what we laid out, is in many cases, where in fact significant progress particularly since surge since June. I mention 8 of past 12 weeks, fewer incidents. 18:50:44 not since April, having said, talked about where there have been reductions. Civilian deaths, sectarian violence.levels are still unacceptable, area we must work. Damage done, in 2006 2007 was very serious. 18:51:14 still many problems as a result of the fabric of society. 18:51:32 I do not thank you. 18:51:48 I did not provide optimistic words. An assessment. Iraq is real hard. Very clear the challenges at the political level, we are working of course on the ground, military, Iraqi counterparts. 18:52:11 opportunity for Iraqi leaders achieve reconciliation. Tried to do, local.progress, the ambassador explained effectively, where it worked and where it needs to be worked. 18:52:52 Mid-March on next summer.Not been accepted, recommended, start this month, redeployment.September without replacement. Redeployment, mid- december, we could've run surge.battlefield. 18:53:34 reduction of 5 army brigades, 2 marine battalions, very substantial. We have recommended that, until mid-July, it is not something I can sit here now.in September and say I can say where we will be in next July, year away, and offer some sense of how to draw forces down. 18:54:07 did state, we will beyond that point...didn't state what applied path will be. Prediction, assessment or recommendation at this point in time. 18:54:40 RYAN CROCKER: optimistic, best assessment I can. Trajectory is moving up, political, economic and diplomatic activity. A lot of problems out there. We are seeing bottoms up both security and political developments. 18:55:16 In Diyala for example, linkages to develop between center and provinces, also good. Economic progress.central gov't to make budget allocations to the problems, increase provinces to spend money they get. 18:55:43 we see indications efforts on national level, what kind of shape the new Iraq is going to take. The more harder, tremendous levels of violence. Putting all this together, It think we are making progress.not right around the corner. 18:56:23 enough going around that is promising. 18:56:28 thank you.