Will the U.S. ever leave Iraq? Official policy promises an eventual departure, while warning of the dire consequences of a “premature” withdrawal. But while Washington equivocates, facts on the ground tell another story. Independent journalist Dahr Jamail, and author Chalmers Johnson, are discovering that military bases in Iraq are being consolidated from over a hundred to a handful of “megabases” with lavish amenities. Much of what is taking place is obscured by denials and quibbles over the definition of “permanent.” The Bases Are Loaded covers a wide range of topics. Gary Hart, James Goldsborough, Nadia Keilani, Raed Jarrar, Bruce Finley Kam Zarrabi and Mark Rudd all add their observations about the extent and purpose of the bases in Iraq.
“What are the odds that a US military commander of one of these bases is going to say, “Well, OK Iraqis, looks like our job’s done here. Here’s the keys. Enjoy the movie theater. Have fun in the swimming pool. Enjoy your democracy. Take Care?”
It’s just not going to happen. That’s my point. These are billion dollar bases. These are Mega Bases. They’re permanent bases, and they are there absoultely to stay.”
– Dahr Jamail in the film “The Bases Are Loaded”.
