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US President Joe Biden, right, speaks as Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, left, listens during their meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, July 26, 2021.
Biden announces end of American combat mission in Iraq
Main US focus is already assisting Iraqi forces rather than fighting; US president doesn’t say if he plans to reduce the number of troops in Iraq, now about 2,500
Jul 27 - President Joe Biden said Monday the US combat mission in Iraq will conclude by the end of the year, an announcement that reflects the reality on the ground more than a major shift in US policy.
Even before Biden took office, the main US focus has been assisting Iraqi forces, not fighting on their behalf. And Biden did not say if he planned to reduce the number of troops in Iraq, now about 2,500.
The announcement comes on the heels of Biden’s decision to withdraw fully from Afghanistan nearly 20 years after the US launched that war in response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Together, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have heavily taxed the US military and kept it from devoting more attention to a rising China, which the Biden administration calls the biggest long-term security challenge.
For years, US troops have played support roles in Iraq and in neighboring Syria, which was the origin of the Islamic State group that swept across the border in 2014 and captured large swaths of Iraqi territory, prompting the US to send troops back to Iraq that year.
Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office session with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Biden said his administration remained committed to a partnership with Iraq — a relationship that has been increasingly complicated by Iranian-backed Iraqi militia groups. The militias want all US troops out of Iraq immediately and have periodically attacked bases that house American troops... more
Biden announces end of American combat mission in Iraq
Main US focus is already assisting Iraqi forces rather than fighting; US president doesn’t say if he plans to reduce the number of troops in Iraq, now about 2,500
Jul 27 - President Joe Biden said Monday the US combat mission in Iraq will conclude by the end of the year, an announcement that reflects the reality on the ground more than a major shift in US policy.
Even before Biden took office, the main US focus has been assisting Iraqi forces, not fighting on their behalf. And Biden did not say if he planned to reduce the number of troops in Iraq, now about 2,500.
The announcement comes on the heels of Biden’s decision to withdraw fully from Afghanistan nearly 20 years after the US launched that war in response to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Together, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have heavily taxed the US military and kept it from devoting more attention to a rising China, which the Biden administration calls the biggest long-term security challenge.
For years, US troops have played support roles in Iraq and in neighboring Syria, which was the origin of the Islamic State group that swept across the border in 2014 and captured large swaths of Iraqi territory, prompting the US to send troops back to Iraq that year.
Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office session with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi, Biden said his administration remained committed to a partnership with Iraq — a relationship that has been increasingly complicated by Iranian-backed Iraqi militia groups. The militias want all US troops out of Iraq immediately and have periodically attacked bases that house American troops... more
JULY 26, 2021
President Biden Meets with Iraqi Prime Minister
President Biden met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in the Oval Office at the White House. Following statements by both leaders, President Biden was asked about the U.S. role in Iraq. The president said, “I think things are going well... we’re not going to be by the end of the year in a combat mission.” He was also asked about COVID-19 vaccinations for Veterans Affairs staff. The president responded, “Veterans Affairs is going to in fact require that all doctors working in facilities are going to have to be vaccinated.”
President Biden Meets with Iraqi Prime Minister
President Biden met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in the Oval Office at the White House. Following statements by both leaders, President Biden was asked about the U.S. role in Iraq. The president said, “I think things are going well... we’re not going to be by the end of the year in a combat mission.” He was also asked about COVID-19 vaccinations for Veterans Affairs staff. The president responded, “Veterans Affairs is going to in fact require that all doctors working in facilities are going to have to be vaccinated.”
Remarks by President Biden and Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi of the Republic of Iraq Before Bilateral Meeting
JULY 26, 2021•SPEECHES AND REMARKS
Oval Office
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Well, I’m honored to welcome the Prime Minister. We’ve known each other for some time. And welcome to the White House, welcome to the Oval, Mr. Prime Minister.
Iraq has been a vital part for the — partner of the United States for some time now in the Middle East. And we’ve en- — I’ve engaged deeply in Iraq for my entire career back in the Senate, as Vice President, and as President. And I’ve worked with Iraq to — and matter of fact, my son Beau was in Iraq for a year with the Am- — with the Army National Guard.
And the sacrifices that so many — so many have made to build the U.S.-Iraq partnership has been real, and it’s consequential. And my administration is committed to strengthening that partnership, Mr. Prime Minister... more
JULY 26, 2021•SPEECHES AND REMARKS
Oval Office
PRESIDENT BIDEN: Well, I’m honored to welcome the Prime Minister. We’ve known each other for some time. And welcome to the White House, welcome to the Oval, Mr. Prime Minister.
Iraq has been a vital part for the — partner of the United States for some time now in the Middle East. And we’ve en- — I’ve engaged deeply in Iraq for my entire career back in the Senate, as Vice President, and as President. And I’ve worked with Iraq to — and matter of fact, my son Beau was in Iraq for a year with the Am- — with the Army National Guard.
And the sacrifices that so many — so many have made to build the U.S.-Iraq partnership has been real, and it’s consequential. And my administration is committed to strengthening that partnership, Mr. Prime Minister... more
Readout of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Meeting with Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi of Iraq
JULY 26, 2021•STATEMENTS AND RELEASES
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met today with Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi of Iraq to strengthen bilateral coordination under the Strategic Framework Agreement. Together they discussed expanded initiatives on climate, energy, education, and combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. They committed to a continued security partnership to ensure that ISIS can never resurge and to allow communities recovering from terror to rebuild with dignity even as the United States shifts to a purely advisory role. The leaders reaffirmed their respect for Iraq’s democracy, the rule of law, and promoting a secure environment for Iraq’s upcoming elections in October. The leaders agreed on the vital importance of holding these elections on time, and welcomed the UN monitoring mission to support their full transparency and fairness.
Together, they discussed the important role of Iraq in the region and the significant diplomatic efforts led by Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi to improve and strengthen Iraq’s relationships in the region. They lauded the historic visit of Pope Francis to Iraq earlier this year, the trilateral summit with Egypt and Jordan, and the important role Iraq plays in promoting interfaith tolerance and the common bonds of humanity in the Middle East. They agreed that Iraq’s stability was central to the stability of the entire region. source from
JULY 26, 2021•STATEMENTS AND RELEASES
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. met today with Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi of Iraq to strengthen bilateral coordination under the Strategic Framework Agreement. Together they discussed expanded initiatives on climate, energy, education, and combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. They committed to a continued security partnership to ensure that ISIS can never resurge and to allow communities recovering from terror to rebuild with dignity even as the United States shifts to a purely advisory role. The leaders reaffirmed their respect for Iraq’s democracy, the rule of law, and promoting a secure environment for Iraq’s upcoming elections in October. The leaders agreed on the vital importance of holding these elections on time, and welcomed the UN monitoring mission to support their full transparency and fairness.
Together, they discussed the important role of Iraq in the region and the significant diplomatic efforts led by Prime Minister Al-Kadhimi to improve and strengthen Iraq’s relationships in the region. They lauded the historic visit of Pope Francis to Iraq earlier this year, the trilateral summit with Egypt and Jordan, and the important role Iraq plays in promoting interfaith tolerance and the common bonds of humanity in the Middle East. They agreed that Iraq’s stability was central to the stability of the entire region. source from
Crowds gather outside the Cuban embassy in Washington in support of anti-government protests in Cuba
Hundreds rally in Washington against Cuban govt
Jul 17 - Hundreds of Cuban Americans, political refugees and activists marched on the US capital Monday to protest against the Cuban government and its crackdown on anti-communist demonstrations earlier this month.
Cubans from across the United States waving "freedom" signs and Cuban and American flags gathered outside the White House to demand President Joe Biden take action against the island's regime.
Human rights groups accuse Cuba's rulers of using censorship and fear tactics to repress historic anti-government demonstrations -- the biggest protests since the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power in 1959.
"We decided to come to get the attention of the American people," said Carlos Rodriguez, 29, who flew to Washington from Miami to show his support.
"We need (the White House) to declare the Cuban government illegitimate," said Elena Cruz, 32, a Florida-based realtor who left Cuba at 16 years old.
On July 11, scores of demonstrations erupted across Cuba triggered by economic strife, medical and food shortages and anger at the regime.
Clashes with police left one person dead, while the ensuing crackdown targeted hundreds of others arrested and charged with contempt, public disorder, vandalism and negligent conduct in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic... more
Hundreds rally in Washington against Cuban govt
Jul 17 - Hundreds of Cuban Americans, political refugees and activists marched on the US capital Monday to protest against the Cuban government and its crackdown on anti-communist demonstrations earlier this month.
Cubans from across the United States waving "freedom" signs and Cuban and American flags gathered outside the White House to demand President Joe Biden take action against the island's regime.
Human rights groups accuse Cuba's rulers of using censorship and fear tactics to repress historic anti-government demonstrations -- the biggest protests since the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power in 1959.
"We decided to come to get the attention of the American people," said Carlos Rodriguez, 29, who flew to Washington from Miami to show his support.
"We need (the White House) to declare the Cuban government illegitimate," said Elena Cruz, 32, a Florida-based realtor who left Cuba at 16 years old.
On July 11, scores of demonstrations erupted across Cuba triggered by economic strife, medical and food shortages and anger at the regime.
Clashes with police left one person dead, while the ensuing crackdown targeted hundreds of others arrested and charged with contempt, public disorder, vandalism and negligent conduct in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic... more
GOP lawmakers request Cuba meeting with Biden
RJul 26 - A group of 19 Republican lawmakers penned a letter to President Biden on Monday requesting a meeting to discuss the ongoing situation in Cuba, which has escalated in recent weeks following protests against the government.
The coalition of GOP lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and Sen. Marco Rubio (Fla.), specifically requested the meeting to discuss how Congress and the administration “can work together to bring an end to the oppressive communist regime in Havana and liberate the Cuban people.”
“Now is the time to act,” the lawmakers wrote in the letter.
The situation in Cuba has received increased attention in recent weeks, after the country saw one of the largest anti-government demonstrations in memory break out earlier this month.
The protesters were demonstrating against food shortages and high prices sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dozens of activists and journalists have been arrested since the protests broke out, and at least one person has been killed... more
Related Articles:
Cuba blames US for Molotov cocktail attack at Paris embassy
Cuba says its Paris embassy targeted by gasoline bombs
RJul 26 - A group of 19 Republican lawmakers penned a letter to President Biden on Monday requesting a meeting to discuss the ongoing situation in Cuba, which has escalated in recent weeks following protests against the government.
The coalition of GOP lawmakers, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and Sen. Marco Rubio (Fla.), specifically requested the meeting to discuss how Congress and the administration “can work together to bring an end to the oppressive communist regime in Havana and liberate the Cuban people.”
“Now is the time to act,” the lawmakers wrote in the letter.
The situation in Cuba has received increased attention in recent weeks, after the country saw one of the largest anti-government demonstrations in memory break out earlier this month.
The protesters were demonstrating against food shortages and high prices sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dozens of activists and journalists have been arrested since the protests broke out, and at least one person has been killed... more
Related Articles:
Cuba blames US for Molotov cocktail attack at Paris embassy
Cuba says its Paris embassy targeted by gasoline bombs
JULY 26, 2021
White House Daily Briefing
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki held a briefing on the Biden administration’s policy agenda. She announced the White House would be maintaining its travel restrictions due to a rise in COVID-10 cases linked to the Delta variant. She discussed a variety of other topics including vaccine mandates and the use of masks, the January 6 Select Committee’s inaugural hearing, troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan as well as ongoing negotiations on an infrastructure package.
White House Daily Briefing
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki held a briefing on the Biden administration’s policy agenda. She announced the White House would be maintaining its travel restrictions due to a rise in COVID-10 cases linked to the Delta variant. She discussed a variety of other topics including vaccine mandates and the use of masks, the January 6 Select Committee’s inaugural hearing, troop withdrawals from Iraq and Afghanistan as well as ongoing negotiations on an infrastructure package.
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jen Psaki, July 26, 2021
JULY 26, 2021•PRESS BRIEFINGS
MS. PSAKI: Hi, everyone. Happy Monday. Okay. Today, I wanted to start by providing a brief note on where we are with our battle against the pandemic at home.
First, taking a step back: In December, the percentage of Americans willing to get a shot was in the 30s. We now have 70 percent of adult — almost 70 percent, I should say, of adult Americans who have been vaccinated. That is a positive step forward, and it is an encouraging sign to us that we can still get more people vaccinated.
Where we are today signals we’ve made pretty incredible progress with our vaccination effort. Sixty percent of adult Americans are fully vaccinated, including 80 percent of seniors. Nearly 90 percent of teachers have gotten a shot. Ninety-five percent-plus of physicians have been fully vaccinated.
For the second week in a row, last week the five states with the highest case rates — Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and California — had a higher rate of people getting newly vaccinated compared to the national average. Again, this is a positive trend.
And just one more recent proof point: In the reporting period from yesterday, nearly half a million Americans made the decision to get their first shot.
Numbers like this signal to us people are understanding the urgency and importance of getting vaccinated, and rightfully so.
So, as you’ve heard me say in here a number of times, 162-plus million Americans are fully vaccinated. They have a very strong degree of protection against the variants. They are overwhelmingly avoiding severe illness, hospitalization, and, critically important, death. Unvaccinated individuals account for virtually all of the hospitalizations and deaths in the United States... more
JULY 26, 2021•PRESS BRIEFINGS
MS. PSAKI: Hi, everyone. Happy Monday. Okay. Today, I wanted to start by providing a brief note on where we are with our battle against the pandemic at home.
First, taking a step back: In December, the percentage of Americans willing to get a shot was in the 30s. We now have 70 percent of adult — almost 70 percent, I should say, of adult Americans who have been vaccinated. That is a positive step forward, and it is an encouraging sign to us that we can still get more people vaccinated.
Where we are today signals we’ve made pretty incredible progress with our vaccination effort. Sixty percent of adult Americans are fully vaccinated, including 80 percent of seniors. Nearly 90 percent of teachers have gotten a shot. Ninety-five percent-plus of physicians have been fully vaccinated.
For the second week in a row, last week the five states with the highest case rates — Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and California — had a higher rate of people getting newly vaccinated compared to the national average. Again, this is a positive trend.
And just one more recent proof point: In the reporting period from yesterday, nearly half a million Americans made the decision to get their first shot.
Numbers like this signal to us people are understanding the urgency and importance of getting vaccinated, and rightfully so.
So, as you’ve heard me say in here a number of times, 162-plus million Americans are fully vaccinated. They have a very strong degree of protection against the variants. They are overwhelmingly avoiding severe illness, hospitalization, and, critically important, death. Unvaccinated individuals account for virtually all of the hospitalizations and deaths in the United States... more
NBC Nightly News Broadcast (Full) - July 26th, 2021
Jul 27, 2021
Hospitals overwhelmed amid a surge in new Covid patients, firefighters struggling to contain Northern California’s Dixie Fire, and House Republicans divided over the Capitol riot committee.
00:00 Intro
01:35 New Vaccine Mandates
04:22 Covid Hospitalizations Surging
07:08 Raging Wildfires In The West
09:48 U.S. To End Iraq Combat Mission
Jul 27, 2021
Hospitals overwhelmed amid a surge in new Covid patients, firefighters struggling to contain Northern California’s Dixie Fire, and House Republicans divided over the Capitol riot committee.
00:00 Intro
01:35 New Vaccine Mandates
04:22 Covid Hospitalizations Surging
07:08 Raging Wildfires In The West
09:48 U.S. To End Iraq Combat Mission
