In a briefing on Nov. 20, Mullen said he could not predict the size of
the U.S. military presence in Kuwait, Middle East Newsline reported. Officials said about 15,000 American
soldiers
were in Kuwait in support of the combat mission in neighboring Iraq.
"But I would speak to the importance of what has been for the last
decade and a half, if not more, and what will continue to be an incredibly
strong relationship between the two countries, and to extend that, both from
the Kuwait standpoint, to many of our friends in that part of the world,"
Mullen said.
Mullen said the U.S. military's priority was to improve stability in the
Middle East. He said this required the Joint Chiefs to develop a long-term
military strategy that would address Iran.
"I think we would all like to see Iran take a constructive and
responsible role," Mullen said. "It is too soon to tell if they are in fact
living up to their pledge to do so."
The U.S. embassy in Kuwait has warned of the prospect of Al Qaida
strikes in the sheikdom. The embassy reported harassment of both
American men and women on the streets of Kuwait City.
"If confronted by a stranger while driving, remain in your vehicle," the
embassy said in a warden message. "This will provide a considerable level of
safety and mobility."
Kuwait has been improving its relations with the United States as well
as NATO. Officials said NATO was discussing an agreement to transfer
equipment through Kuwait to Iraq and other areas of the Middle East.
