Iraq war would end in 2011 for US: Obama

"In Iraq, after more than six years, we took an important step forward in June. We transferred control of all cities and towns to Iraq's security forces," he said.

"The transition to full Iraqi responsibility for their own security is now underway. This progress is a testament to all those who have served in Iraq, both uniformed and civilian. And our nation owes these Americans -- and all who have given their lives -- a profound debt of gratitude," he said, amidst applause.

The US President said, "Now, as Iraqis take control of their destiny, they will be tested and targeted. Those who seek to sow sectarian division will attempt more senseless bombings and more killing of innocents."

"As we move forward, the Iraqi people must know that the US will keep its commitments. The American people must know that we will move forward with our strategy," Obama said.

By moving forward in Iraq, the US is able to refocus on the war against Al Qaeda and its extremist allies in Afghanistan and Pakistan, he asserted.

Obama asserted that his administration would send its troops on foreign soil only when it is absolutely necessary. "I will only send you into harm's way when it is absolutely necessary," Obama pledged.

"When I do, it will be based on good intelligence and guided by a sound strategy. I will give you a clear mission, defined goals, and the equipment and support you need to get the job done. That's my commitment to you," Obama asserted, amidst applause.

The US President said his administration would ensure that the American forces remained the best fighting troops in the world.

"We need to keep our military the best-trained, the best-led, the best-equipped fighting force in the world. And that's why, even with our current economic challenges, my budget increases defence spending," he said.

"We will ensure that we have the force structure to meet today's missions," Obama said, adding that his administration had increased the size of the Army and the Marine Corps two years ahead of schedule and has approved another temporary increase in the Army.

"Insurgency in Afghanistan didn't just happen overnight and we won't defeat it overnight. This will not be quick, nor easy," Obama said.

Observing that Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan would enable Al Qaeda to plan more attacks like 9/11, the US President said the war against terror is necessary for the defence of the people.

"This is a war of necessity. Those who attacked America on 9/11 are plotting to do so again. If left unchecked, the Taliban insurgency will mean an even larger safe haven from which Al Qaeda would plot to kill more Americans. So, this is not only a war worth fighting, this is fundamental to the defence of our people," he said.

Referring to the comprehensive Af-Pak strategy announced by his administration early this year, Obama said the strategy recognises that Al Qaeda and its allies have shifted their base from Afghanistan to remote, tribal areas of Pakistan.

"This (Af-Pak) strategy acknowledges that military power alone will not win this war -- we also need diplomacy, development and good governance. And our new strategy has a clear mission and defined goals: to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat Al Qaeda and its extremist allies," he said.

Today, our troops are helping to secure polling places for this week's election so that Afghans can choose the future that they want," Obama said.

The US President said his administration will adapt to new tactics to stay ahead of the enemy and give its troops the tools and equipment they need to succeed.