WASHINGTON -- The number of American combat deaths in the Iraq war has surpassed the number in the Persian Gulf War. Even U.S. President George W. Bush has acknowledged that the U.S. faces a "security issue in Iraq," a "massive and long-term undertaking." The conflict will soak up a large share of U.S. military strength for years.
In response, servicemen may vote with their feet when re-enlistment rolls around. Despite the president's confident stance in his speech to the nation, his administration needs to plan an expeditious exit from Iraq.
American casualties are climbing weekly -- with an average of 15 to 20 violent incidents every day. If truck bombs become routine and anti-aircraft missiles eventually find their targets, the death toll could mount frightfully.