American Efforts to Train Iraqi Security Forces Nears Failure

This week, The New York Times reported that a multibillion-dollar police training program in Iraq – intended to serve as the centerpiece of an expanded civilian mission – has all but failed.  
According to the Times report, the State Department has significantly slashed the program from its original cadre of 350 American law enforcement officers to a mere 50 advisers. Now, it seems even those individuals may be withdrawn from the country by year’s end.  The program, which began in October and has already cost $500 million, was reportedly dismissed by Iraqi officials from the outset.
Retired Lieutenant General Jim Dubik oversaw the training of Iraqi security forces from 2007-2008, serving as the Commanding General of Multi-National Security and Transition under the Department of Defense. Mr. Dubik, who is currently a Senior Fellow at the Institute for the Study of War, joins us to discuss the State Department’s failed efforts.