Washington, JULY 13, SPA -- President George W. Bush yesterday at a White House press conference urged Congress and the American people to support his administration’s “surge” policy, saying that al Qaeda cannot be allowed another base from which to operate. “Al qaeda likes to use hopelessness to recruit,” Bush said. While “al Qaeda is not as strong as it was before September the 11th, 2001,” he added, “they are still dangerous.” Bush used the press conference to conflate the threat from al Qaeda and the war in Iraq, saying that, if the United State were to pull out prematurely, the United States would have to “go back in with a full force in order to defend the country.” He said that he understands that there is “war fatigue in America” that is “affecting our psychology,” the alternative to victory is not an option. Bush called it “an ugly war,” but urged that it could be won. “If we increase our support at this crucial moment, we can hasten the day when our troops come home.” --MORE www.spa.gov.sa/467039