BAGHDAD, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- The head of Iraq's Governing Council has reportedly pledged to end the loss of American soldier's lives within one year.
The Washington Post said the promise came during an interview with Jalal Talabani, this month's president of the 25-member council, who said within 12 months "we will see Americans in their military garrisons, safe, and nothing (violent) against them."
Talabani, a Kurdish leader, said he expects Iraq to hold elections establishing a democratic federal system of government within a year.
He told the newspaper the current council was akin to the British monarchy and he wants to make it more like the British parliamentary system.
The Post said Talabani criticized nations that opposed the war, warning Russia and France in particular that their continued unwillingness to commit resources to his country would place them at a disadvantage when major contracts are awarded.
