WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. Air Force Gen. Richard Myers said winning the war in Iraq is vital to averting additional terror attacks on the United States.
"This is a handful of folks who are willing to do despicable acts in the name of extremism," Myers said, referring to terror-linked groups based in Iraq in a Pentagon briefing, USA Today reported Tuesday.
Myers said the United States' involvement in Iraq and the war on terror needs the continued support of the American people, who need to remember just what a threat groups such as al-Qaida represent.
He said Iraq was al-Qaida's "center of gravity," USA Today reported, and a U.S. military withdrawal before Iraqi forces are ready to keep peace would be a mistake.
"My view is, if terrorism wins in Iraq, the next 9/11 is right around the corner," Myers said.
Myers ends his term as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, a position he's held since 2001, Friday. He'll be replaced by Marine Gen. Peter Pace.
