Bush calls Iraq war key to terror fight [View All]

[leftchick]

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060819/ap_on_go_pr_wh/bush

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"It is no coincidence that two nations that are building free societies in the heart of the Middle East — Lebanon and Iraq — are also the scenes of the most violent terrorist activity," Bush said in his weekly radio address. "We will defeat the terrorists by strengthening young democracies across the broader Middle East."

He acknowledged that "the way forward will be difficult." But, the president said, "America's security depends on liberty's advance in this troubled region."

The nation's safety looms as a major issue in the midterm elections Nov. 7, particularly after last week's news of a foiled plot in Britain to blow up jetliners over the Atlantic. Both Republicans and Democrats are maneuvering for the political advantage in an election ion which control of Congress is at stake.

Democrats have been accusing the Bush administration of trying to ignite fear among Americans and gain political points by claiming they alone can keep them safe. Republicans argue that Democrats are weak on national security.