US President George W. Bush (centre) stands alongside Iraq's President Jalal Talabani and Iraq vice presidents Adil Abdul-Mahdi (left) and Tariq al-Hashimi during meetings at Salam Palace during an unannounced visit to Baghdad on December 14. Bush acknowledged during a surprise farewell visit to Baghdad on Sunday that the war in Iraq had been difficult but necessary. (AFP/Saul Loeb)From Yahoo News/AP:
BAGHDAD – The Iraqi Defense Ministry says some American troops may remain in urban areas beyond a summer deadline to pull back but only with the permission of the Iraqi government.
Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Mohammed al-Askari said Sunday that U.S. commanders would have to get the permission of the Iraqi government to keep troops in the cities beyond the June 30 pullout deadline that's required under a security agreement.
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My Comment: This is a reasonable request. If the security situation degrades or a threat is looming .... there is no reason to keep U.S. troops in their barracks. I do not see any problems with this need to "receive permission" and/or what actions will be permitted, and I expect all major parties will agree to this understanding.