Washington, OCT 21, SPA -- U.S. President George W. Bush on Friday acknowledged that difficulties continue in Iraq, despite a new military strategy focusing on security in Baghdad, and said he would consult with American generals to see if a change in tactics is necessary. Seventy-four American troops have been killed in Iraq already this October, likely to become the deadliest month for U.S. forces in nearly two years. One of the reasons you re seeing more casualties is the enemy is active and so are our troops, along with Iraqis, Bush told The Associated Press. He said he planned consultations within the next few days with General John Abizaid, the top U.S. commander in the Middle East, and General George Casey, who leads the U.S.-led Multinational Forces in Iraq. We are constantly adjusting our tactics so we can achieve the objectives and right now, it s tough, the president said. It s tough on the families who ve lost a loved one. It s tough for our citizens who look at it on TV. It s hard on the Iraqis. They ve lost a lot of life. It s important for the country and the security of this country that the enemy be defeated in Iraq, he said. There s a criminal element that is taking advantage of the situation in Baghdad and Iraq, and the Iraqi government is going to have to deal firmly with them, he said. At the White House spokesman Tony Snow said Bush might change tactics in Iraq, but the overall strategy would remain the same. He s not somebody who gets jumpy at polls, Snow said. The president is not going to alter his approach based on political considerations, but instead on the business of trying and moving toward having an Iraq that can sustain, govern and defend itself, Bush s spokesman said.--SPA www.spa.gov.sa/397385