They're going to assist however they're needed, ... But it's best to think of them as a security force, not as prison guards, although some things they might do could bring them into proximity with prisoners.

[A. The goal is 325,000, Pentagon spokesman Lt. Col. Barry Venable said.] Is that the force that enables us to then turn over security to that country? We don't know, ... There is no pat answer to the question.

There is a recognized need that there is still a ways to go in increasing their capabilities. Yeah, they've got a few pickup trucks it's better than walking. Yeah, it would be nice if they all had Bradleys. We're not there yet.

We categorically deny that claim,

as a result of specific questions posed by Congressional staffers during briefings.

It was not used against civilians,