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Those in favor of a surge in U.S. troops to Iraq say it is the only way to bring a successful end to the war in Iraq. They argue that a temporary surge would allow the U.S. to secure Baghdad and other areas quickly. They say this would allow time for U.S.-trained Iraqi security forces to prepare to take over the job of the U.S. military, and protect the citizens of Iraq. Supporters of the plan say that unless the U.S. military can secure Baghdad and clamp down on the fighting there, the people of Iraq will be left in the middle of a worsening civil war that could destroy the country.

Opponents of the plan say an increase in troops will only make a bad situation worse. They argue that a troop increase could anger the insurgents who are already carrying out violent acts in Iraq. This could mean that many more U.S. troops could be killed, with no clear benefits. As proof of their claims, opponents point to the first two times that more troops were sent to stabilize Baghdad. Both times led to a brief drop in violence, but as soon as the troops left, the violence went back up. They say sending more troops could stretch the U.S. military to the breaking point.

NewsCurrents wants you to think carefully about both sides of the issue, and answer the question you see here. If you were president, what do you think your choice would be? Why? Click here to participate in our poll. In a few weeks, we will announce the results.