Elections, security will determine size of force in Iraq Published Nov. 4, 2005 By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Iraqi security forces are now shouldering more security burdens, said Marine Lt. Gen. James T. Conway, director of operations for the Joint Staff. "Iraqi security forces continue to grow in capability and confidence," he said. The Iraqi army and police have more than 210,000 members trained and equipped -- the equivalent of 90 battalions. "One division headquarters, four brigades and 24 battalions actually own battlespace (in Iraq)," General Conway said. And they are conducting operations. In October, Iraqi security forces conducted 35 percent of the operations in the country. Coalition forces will continue to work with the Iraqis. Currently, there are about 160,000 Americans in Iraq, and officials expect to see the same number of troops in the country through the Dec. 15 election. "If the election goes as well as previous elections have -- and we have every reason to believe that it will -- then ... probably in the wake of that I think we will see the commanders ... reach decision points on future forces in Iraq," General Conway said. The general said within a month -- depending on logistics and transportation -- American forces should hit the "steady state" number of around 138,000. But even this is event-driven, officials said. The reality on the ground will determine the number of Americans troops in Iraq. If the Iraqis can forge ahead and take an increasing share of the security burden, then fewer American troops will be needed. "Two principles apply: first it will always be conditions-based -- meaning what is happening on the ground," General Conway said. "And secondly, the president has said it, 'When the Iraqis are able to stand up, then we will be able to stand down.'"