BAGHDAD — The marking of Memorial Day last month in the United States was not lost on the Iraqis. We recognize the valor and sacrifice of Americans to secure our freedom from tyranny. The 500,000 police and security personnel who comprise Iraq’s Interior Ministry — and who will inherit much of the job of keeping Iraq safe after U.S. troops leave — must now ensure that America’s courage and suffering will not be in vain.
The June 30 deadline for U.S. troop withdrawal from Iraqi cities is nonnegotiable. Beyond it lies the Iraqi nation, sovereign and united. But as we enter this new, uncharted phase in our self-governance, we know there are challenges and changes ahead.
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