Iraqis, soldiers keep eyes on new U.S. leader

Obama has many pressing priorities that need his attention, but on the other side of the earth, a nation is waiting to see what he does. The residents of Iraq and the U.S. soldiers station there watched Obama’s inauguration, and now they’re watching to see what he does next.

And Obama isn’t waiting too long to get started. Today – his first full day in office – he’s scheduled to meet with security leaders to discuss what’s happening in Iraq and Afghanistan. On the campaign trail, Obama promised a quick exit from Iraq – probably in less than two years.

Yesterday, he made references to the two nations in his inauguration speech. Iraqis paid close attention.

But the people of Iraq weren’t the only ones. Soldiers stationed there – and around the world - listened to their new commander in chief lay out his plans for peace.

Today he’ll start that journey and try to reach that goal before he reaches the halfway mark of his term in office.

Staff Writer Carrie Coppernoll

Thank you for joining our conversation on NewsOK Now. We encourage your discussion but ask that you stay within the bounds of our commenting and posting policy.