(Changes spelling of Iraqi official's name to match Reuters style)

LONDON, Jan 15 (Reuters) - British troops could withdraw from Iraq within a year provided Iraq's own armed forces are reformed, Iraqi Vice President Tareq al-Hashemi said on Monday.

"If British people would like their soldiers to withdraw we have no objection but ... we should have reform of (our) armed forces," Hashemi told reporters during an official visit to London. Asked when he thought British troops could withdraw, Hashemi said: "Within one year if we go for this comprehensive reform plan. I am definitely sure that in one year we could complete the job properly."

Hashemi also told reporters that Iranian influence in Iraq was "deep and exceptional."

"We have plenty of evidence that Iran is becoming a major player in Iraq ... Wherever you go, you see their fingerprints," he said.

AlertNet news is provided by

Delicio.us  |   Digg  |   NewsVine  |   Reddit                                                                                  Permalink