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Bush Urges Americans to Constrain Temptation to Leave Iraq

Posted on: Sunday, 19 March 2006, 09:00 CST

Bush urges Americans to constrain temptation to leave Iraq

WASHINGTON, March 18 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President George W. Bush urged Americans on Saturday to curb their impatience on Iraq's worsening situation, claiming despite "horrific" images in Iraq, progress was being made on the political and military fronts.

In his weekly radio address, Bush said that American people should resist a temptation to retreat while acknowledging setbacks and the prospect of more bloodshed in Iraq.

"These past three years have tested our resolve. We've seen hard days and setbacks," Bush said, noting his administration was "fixing what has not worked."

"More fighting and sacrifice will be required to achieve this victory," Bush said.

The U.S. military on Thursday carried out "Operation Swarmer," the largest air assault in Iraq in the past three years.

At least 2,313 U.S. troops have died since the U.S.-led war on Iraq broke out in March 2003, according to the Pentagon press release.

Heavy casualties and expenditures during the prolonged war have resulted in pessimism over Bush's Iraq policy. Calls for early withdrawal from Iraq have been remarkably high since last year.

Bush's approval ratings have dropped to around 35 percent, according to recent polls.

Bush's radio address, part of his series speeches that began last week, is believed to try to obtain more understanding and support for the war against Iraq. Bush is to deliver a speech in Cleveland about Iraq on Monday.

Source: Xinhua News Agency - CEIS

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