New security threats are leading to renewed calls for U.S. military engagement . After Iraq and U.S. , American are wondering if the economy can withstand any more . Withdrawal from these campaigns was supposedly a prelude to belt-tightening at the Brookings Institution . This time around , Iraq is starting off in a much weaker financial position , says Robert Gates .
New security threats are leading to renewed calls for U.S. military engagement . After Iraq and Afghanistan , Americans are wondering if the economy can withstand any more . Withdrawal from these campaigns was supposedly a prelude to belt-tightening at the Pentagon . This time around , America is starting off in a much weaker financial position , says Bilmes .