Iraq

Since 2003, the United States has provided about $58 billion for reconstruction and stabilization efforts in Iraq, of which about $24 billion has funded programs to train and equip Iraq’s security forces.  The U.S. military in Iraq has provided vital security and other support for U.S. civilian operations, supported reconstruction efforts, and trained and equipped Iraq’s military and police forces.  In February 2009, President Obama called for the responsible drawdown and withdrawal of U.S. forces in Iraq.  As the U.S. military withdraws from Iraq by the end of 2011, Department of Defense and State are developing plans to transition from a predominantly military to a civilian presence in Iraq.  Key challenges include the following:

• The Secretary of State and U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator need to assist Iraq in developing an effective integrated international strategy for reintegrating displaced Iraqis.

  Highlights of GAO-11-124 (PDF)

• The Departments of State and the Treasury need to work with the Iraqi government to further identify available resources for securing and stabilizing Iraq.

  Highlights of GAO-10-304 (PDF)

• The Secretaries of Defense should facilitate the efficient drawdown of U.S. forces and equipment from Iraq by directing the appropriate authorities to ensure unity of effort in contract management.

  Highlights of GAO-10-376 (PDF)