FINALLY

...Someone is asking the question: Will there be permanent bases in Iraq? It seems that there just may be. Ron Brownstein:

"John E. Pike, a defense analyst at GlobalSecurity.org, points to another indication. Although the United States is systematically training Iraqis to fight the insurgents, he notes, the Pentagon has not taken key steps — like making plans for acquiring tanks or aircraft — to build an Iraqi military capable of defending the country against its neighbors.

To Pike that means that although the United States might reduce its troop level in Iraq, the fledgling nation, like Germany or South Korea, will require the sustained presence of a large American contingent, perhaps 50,000 soldiers. "We are building the base structure to facilitate exactly [that]," he says."

Funny, that. It seems so obvious reading it black and white. Why has no journalist who works the Pentagon beat asked about adding equipment for an established Iraq Military? You know, the thing we're supposed to be working on?

At least this article puts the topic out for real discussion, not just blog discussion. Next up, watching the White House press corps, seeing how long until they ask about permanent bases. Don't hold your breath....
Via Laura Rozen.