Petraeus To Be Relieved Of His Command?
Update: Denied

Guess why?

General David Petraeus, the most celebrated American soldier of his generation, is to leave his post as commander of US and Nato forces in Afghanistan. The Times can reveal that the Pentagon aims to replace General Petraeus, who was appointed less than eight months ago, by the end of the year. Sources have confirmed that the search for a new commander in Kabul is under way. It forms part of a sweeping reorganisation of top American officials in Afghanistan, which the Obama Administration hopes to present as proof that its strategy does not depend on the towering reputation of one man.

So if this story is right -- and here I'll believe the MBM -- Obama is getting rid of our most accomplished and successful general to prove that it's Obama's leadership that is critical, not Petraeus'.

Allow me to dream: If Obama removes Petraeus for such grubby considerations, will Petraeus revisit his determination not to run for President?

Now, he's always said he wasn't interested, and on top of that, we always assumed he'd never leave his post for a political ambition.

But if Obama is removing him, in order to grab credit... why, he doesn't have his post anymore, does he?

There is a lot of talk that only Christie can win in 2012 (and he's not running). That's John from Verum Serum's idea. I heard that from him before I heard it from Coulter.

I think maybe that's right.

Except for the Petraeus Option, which probably isn't an option, but... what... if...?

Denied: According to the Guardian.

The Pentagon has denied that the commander of US and Nato forces in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, is planning to quit by the end of the year.

...

Geoff Morrell, the Pentagon spokesman, said: "Despite some sensational speculation by one of the London papers, I can assure you General Petraeus is not quitting as Isaf commander, but nor does he plan to stay in Afghanistan for ever.

"Obviously he will rotate out at some point, but that point has not yet been determined and it will not occur any time soon. Until then, he will continue to ably lead our coalition forces in Afghanistan."

Obviously I don't know. Who knows, maybe an ally of Petraeus floated the story in order to get Petraeus more commitment from Obama on deadlines and shooting while negotiating.

Thanks to Tami.

posted by Ace at 07:49 PM

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