Italy to Withdraw Troops from Iraq

[G_j]

http://news.scotsman.com/latest.cfm?id=4260541

Italy to Withdraw Troops from Iraq

By Gavin Cordon, PA Whitehall Editor


Prime Minister Tony Blair’s hopes of restoring stability in Iraq were dealt a fresh blow tonight after Italy announced plans to start withdrawing its troops.

Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi said in Rome that he would begin a “progressive reduction” of the 3,000-strong Italian contingent from September.

The announcement is a setback for Mr Blair and US President George Bush as the Italian government was one of the strongest supporters of the American-led coalition.

However public opposition in Italy has intensified following the shooting of secret service agent Nicola Calipari who died when US troops mistakenly opened fire on his vehicle as he was escorting a hostage to freedom.

Mr Berlusconi, who said that he had discussed the withdrawal with Mr Blair, acknowledged that public opinion had played a part in the decision.

..more..

[LSparkle]

1. First Poland, now Italy

It's the "coalition of the dwindling" ...

[Mr Rabble]

2. Damn!

I wanted to remind everyone that- "you forgot poland"!


www.youforgotpoland.com