Carl Levin - United States Senator for Michigan: Issues - Iraq

Iraq

I opposed the congressional authorization of the use of force against Iraq in 2002, and offered a competing authorization that would have ensured that any use of force was part of an international effort and that provided for full and immediate access for weapons inspectors to determine whether Saddam Hussein’s government possessed weapons of mass destruction. I have always advocated vigorous support to our men and women in harm’s way.

I support the decision to end the U.S. military mission in Iraq at the end of 2011 as agreed by President Bush and Prime Minister Maliki in 2008, because only the people and government of Iraq can secure their nation’s future.

Senator Levin’s Record on Iraq

Jan. 10, 2012 – Levin releases summary debunking false claims on detainee provisions
Sen. Levin releases a summary of provisions on detention of terror suspects in the National Defense Authorization Act and explains that a number of public criticisms of the provisions misstate their impact.
Nov. 15 – Levin says Iraq withdrawal is ‘right decision’
Sen. Levin chairs an Armed Services Committee hearing on Iraq policy, and says President Obama made the “right decision” by carrying out bipartisan U.S. policy that calls for full withdrawal of U.S. combat troops by the end of 2011.
Oct. 21, 2011 – Levin hails decision to go forward with Iraq withdrawal
Sen. Levin issues a statement supporting President Obama’s decision to withdraw U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of 2011 in the absence of an agreement to protect U.S. troops from prosecution in Iraqi courts. “While the military and diplomatic aspects of this news are important, our thoughts should focus above all on the bravery, sacrifice, and determination of our service members, the sacrifices of their families, and on the nearly 4,500 troops who have lost their lives serving our country in Iraq,” he says.
June 17, 2011 - Sen. Levin leads Senate Armed Services Committee through successful markup of defense bill
Sen. Levin, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, guided the committee through the markup of the annual National Defense Authorization Act. "For the 50th consecutive year, the committee reported out a bill that supports the men and women of the armed forces and provides them with the resources, training, and equipment they need to accomplish their missions," Levin said. Read more.