Thailand Begins Planned Withdrawal
 
Thai troops are preparing to rotate their 451 member humanitarian force back to Thailand.  The Thai for has been in Iraq for a year. Thai Defense Minister General Chettha Thanajaro has told UN SecGen Koffi Anan Thailand will not extend their commitment. Thai forces have been making preparations to leave since July 1.
 
"As of now we have already made some movements," the minister said. "We are lucky that we are safe, and we will still complete our commitment which is the best way."