At one point, Representative Gary Ackerman, a New York Democrat, repeatedly asked what would happen if the new government became so incensed by American conduct in Iraq, such as in the scandal over treatment of prisoners, that it asked American forces to withdraw. Would American forces have to comply?

Mr. Grossman at first said that this could not happen because any government would recognize the importance of keeping American forces on hand — the line taken repeatedly by American officials for months. Finally, when pressed, he answered “yes” — American forces would have to leave.

He was then contradicted by Lt. Gen. Walter Sharp, director of strategic plans and policy for the military’s joint staff, who said that such a request would only be valid if made by an elected government — something that would not exist until next year. …

“If the provisional government asks us to leave we will leave,” Bremer said, referring to an Iraqi administration due to take power June 30. ‘’I don’t think that will happen, but obviously we don’t stay in countries where we’re not welcome.'’ …

If only these guys were as concise about everything… oh, wait… they are.