[0:10] ..." now on our third consecutive month. With reduced violence levels. Holding steady. General Petraeus and ambassador Crocker caution. If the progress is still reversible. They report that now appears to be a degree of durability. The"...

[0:55] ..." We show the capability of those forces earlier this year. When the Iraqi Government launched successful military operations against Shia extremist groups in Basra. Amara. And Sadr City area of Baghdad. Because these operations extremist who"...

[1:26] ..." not have been possible just a few months ago. This week the Iraqi Government is launching a new offensive in parts of the D our province. That contain some of Al Qaeda as few remaining safe havens in the country. This operation is Iraqi led. Our forces are playing a supporting role. In the moments in the months ahead. Iraqis will continue taking the lead in more military operations across the country. And security in Iraq is improve. Iraqi Government has -- political progress is well. Iraqi council of representatives has passed several major pieces of legislation this year. And Iraqi leaders are preparing for provincial elections. Prime Minister Maliki recently returned from a successful visit to Europe. Where he held important diplomatic discussions"...

[2:42] ..." of these surge brigades. Return home this month. And later this year General Petraeus will present me -- recommendations on future troop levels. Including further reductions in combat forces as conditions permit. As part of the"...