Admitting US difficulties in Iraq, President George W. Bush has said that he will send more troops to the war-hit country, if necessary. He said that he has spoken to General John Abizaid — the top commander in the Persian Gulf region — twice in the last four or five days. ‘‘He knows full well if he needs additional manpower he can ask for it.’’‘‘It was a tough week last week, and my prayers and thoughts are with those who paid the ultimate price for our security,’’ Bush said.More than 50 US soldiers have reportedly been killed in the past week across Iraq in fighting with insurgents. Bush termed the violence in Iraq as ‘‘part of a few people trying to stop progress toward democracy.’’ ‘‘. These incidents were basically thrust upon the innocent Iraqi people by gangs, violent gangs,’’ he added.Regarding the ceasefire with Iraqi insurgents, he said ‘‘we are open-minded to suggestions. Members of the Governing Council wanted a chance to move into Fallujah and see if they could bring some order to the gangs and violence . Obviously, I pray every day there’s less casualty.’’ —(PTI)
