(Warwick, R.I.) Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI), member of the House Armed Services Committee, today offered the following statement on the bipartisan Iraq Study Commission’s report:

“I agree with the Iraq Study Commission that the situation in Iraq is “grave and deteriorating,” and I am optimistic that their report will be a first step towards building a constructive dialogue on how our nation should proceed.  The members of the Commission bring extensive experience and keen insights to the discussion, and their recommendations should be carefully considered by Congress and the Administration."

“I have long argued that we need a stronger diplomatic effort with Iraq and its neighbors, and I am pleased that the Commission placed particular emphasis on this approach.  It is in everyone’s best interest to work together to address ongoing problems in Iraq and the region.  In the meantime, I believe we need to begin redeploying our troops out of combat missions in Iraq as soon as possible, and I will continue to look to our military leaders for their guidance on necessary troop levels.

“Most importantly, any short-term changes to our existing operations in Iraq should be the first step toward the larger goal of completely ending our military presence. I have stated in the past my concern that the operational conditions in Iraq have taken a heavy toll on our military equipment, and multiple deployments of troops to the region have harmed our military’s readiness to respond to other crises. It is time to make a significant military shift away from combat activities while continuing to train and advise the Iraqi military.  The Iraqi government must understand that we do not plan to be in Iraq indefinitely, and they must step in soon to ensure their own security.

“President Bush must recognize that we need to change course and should not dismiss any of these recommendations out of hand. I think we owe it to our constituents and those servicemembers bravely serving overseas to thoughtfully explore each and every option. I look forward to analyzing this report in greater detail to flush out viable options and solutions.”

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