US President George W. Bush has been criticized for bringing up the Sept. 11 attacks while defending his plan to keep U.S. troops in Iraq.

The president urged the American public to be patient after a recent poll showed an increase in American doubts over the Iraq war. He also mentioned the deadly 2001 terrorist attacks five times during a 28-minute address Tuesday night at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Bush said the sacrifice in Iraq is worthwhile and it is vital to the security of the US. And he also rejected suggestions that he set a timetable for withdrawal from Iraq or send in more troops.

Bush's speech marked the first anniversary of the transfer of power from the U.S.-led coalition to Iraq's interim government.

Democrats criticized Bush for not offering more specifics about how to achieve success in Iraq and his frequent mentioning of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid said the president's numerous references to September 11 did not provide a way forward in Iraq but only reminded them that Osama bin Laden is still at large.

Source: CRI news