WASHINGTON, June 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush Wednesday pledged to take advice on Iraq but said U.S. troops won't leave until "we succeed."
Just hours after returning from a surprise visit to Baghdad, Bush told a White House news conference he listens carefully to the "people on the ground" before making decisions.
He said he has advice for Iraqi insurgents: "Don't count on us leaving before we succeed." He also pledged support for troops and said the U.S. strategy will be adjusted as the situation warrants.
"Policy will be driven by people on the ground," Bush said. "I get advice and share advice. We have very competent, capable people who understand the Iraqi situation well."
Bush said his trip Tuesday help dispel doubts about the U.S. policy in Iraq.
"If they choose not to make the hard decisions and implement a plan, they're not going to make it," Bush said.
"I believe we'll have a partner to do the hard work."
