President Bush said on Thursday that US occupation forces in Iraq face a security problem, upgrading his public assessment of the threat as American deaths continued to rise. ‘‘We’re going to deal with it person by person. We have to remain tough,’’ said Bush during meetings with Botswana’s President Festus Mogae. The President’s words were more subdued than the defiant challenge he made to Iraqi militants on July 2. ‘‘Bring ’em on’’ Bush said, adding: ‘‘We’ve got tough force there right now to make sure the situation is secure.’’ While acknowledging the danger to US troops, Bush repeated his earlier assertion that there was no alternative but to remain in Iraq until it is pacified and democratic. ‘‘It’s going to take more than 90 to 100 days for people to recognise the great joys of freedom and the responsibilities that come with freedom,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s very important for us to stay the course, and we will stay the course.’’ Bush said. The US President said that the occupation force is making steady progress and asserted ‘‘the vast majority of Iraqi citizens are thrilled that Saddam is no longer in power’’. He said that the violence was mainly the work of Saddam ‘‘apologists’’. (LAT-WP)
